How are you doing?

2024 is already coming to a close, and I want to take a moment to thank you for being a part of my world.

The end of the year is often a time of reflection, and I encourage you to look back on how far you’ve come.

I'd encourage you to look at any accomplishments, challenges, and moments of growth. It could be big or small.

For example, I started running towards the start of the year. I even sent it out to the community (one of the most liked newsletters. You may want to check it out if you haven't). And today, I ran four rounds without any extra effort on my part. My body just pushed to go for one more without any extra panting or "will-power" push. It was a genuine progress. Though it's small, I'm happy about this.

Whether you’ve made significant or little progress or faced obstacles that slowed you down, remember that each step is part of your unique growth story. Growth isn’t always linear, but every effort, no matter how small, adds up over time.

As we prepare for 2025, I want to help you start the year with a sense of direction and purpose. One skill that I truly believe can make a difference in both personal and professional growth is public speaking. It’s something that can be intimidating for many, but with consistent effort and the right mindset, anyone can improve.

Here are five simple things that you can do today to improve your game of public speaking:

1. Practice, Practice, Practice
   There’s no substitute for experience. The more you speak in front of others, the more comfortable you’ll become. Start by practicing in front of a mirror or recording yourself. Notice your body language, voice modulation, and clarity of diction. Then adjust accordingly.
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2. Know Your Audience
   Tailor your message to connect with your listeners. Understand their needs, interests, and knowledge level, and frame your message in a way that speaks directly to them.
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3. Slow Down and Breathe
   It’s easy to rush when you’re nervous, but slowing down allows you to think clearly and project confidence. Deep breathing can help you calm your nerves and ensure your message is heard. Do this when you are practicing (not when in front of a real audience). When you do this properly during practice, you'll be able to take proper Pauses during real-time speech.
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4. Engage with Stories
   People remember stories more than facts, and that's a fact! When you incorporate personal stories or relatable examples, you create an emotional connection that makes your message stick.
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5. Seek Feedback
   Ask for constructive feedback from trusted colleagues, friends, or a coach. Knowing where you excel and where you can improve will help you refine your skills over time, and this is the real secret of high performers.

If you need personal coaching that's designed to help you refine your skills, break through barriers, and achieve your goals, then please let me know.

Together, we’ll create a plan that’s tailored to your needs, and I’ll be there every step of the way to support you in reaching new heights.

Whether you’re looking to take your speaking skills to the next level, overcome self-doubt, or stay consistent in your efforts, coaching can make all the difference.

I'm opening a few spots for personal coaching from Jan 2025.

If you are interested, please reply to this email with "Coaching".

As always, thanks for being awesome!
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-Rama