I had the privilege of speaking to one thousand people at a seminar this weekend.
One the things I hear from attendees again and again is how "real" I am on stage.
I take that a compliment, because to be otherwise would be to act "phony."
After considering these kinds of comments, I wonder how many people aren't "real" on stage or some other part of their lives.
I think one reason that speakers/performers struggle is because they aren't being true to themselves on stage. In other words, there is a gap between who they really are and who they portray themselves to be in the public eye.
Why is this?
I think it stems from an insecurity within themselves. They are afraid that people won't like them or be interested in what they have to say if they really knew them.
You'll frequently find this to be a problem with people who appear to have a massive ego.
Their "act" is inconsistent with reality and they have to make themselves out to be "something special" in order to feel good about themselves.
Unfortunately, I've run into more than just a few people who fit this description.
Why do people see me as "real" on stage and in person?
Because that's all I can bring to the table.
I am who I am, and there's no way around it.
I'm not special because I'm a best-selling author.
I'm not special because I speak on large stages.
And I'm not special because I have money in the bank.
I'm special because I am the only me. There's no one else like me, and there never will be! (My wife and kids would agree that this is a good thing)
Well, guess what?
YOU are the only you, and there will never be another one like you.
That means the same thing that makes me special also is what makes you special!
Whether you are a speaker, author, blogger or whatever else, there is no need to pretend. (The only exception is if you are an actor in a film or play!)
Here's an indicator that you are being real with others... When you receive a compliment, instead of feeling "puffed up", you experience a sense of humility.
There's nothing wrong with getting strokes and receiving kudos. But if you have the ability to recognize that all you are doing is being true to yourself, you will receive the kind words with humility.
There's no need to pretend you are something you aren't.
Just be who you are and people will see your authenticity. They will respect and admire the fact that you are true to yourself. And you will be happy knowing that you are "keeping it real."
It's Del.icio.us!
Furl It!
December 13, 2008 03:11 PM
Great post, Mr. Joel!
Couldn't agree more. Nice to see others are thinking the same as me. Yeah!
Keep the faith and keep being you!
~Ronald
December 13, 2008 11:45 PM
Be real my brother, that is what we all must do to stay focused on our future in this business, I'm a nub bee and the information that is given is very confusing and overload.I first saw you in an interview with a company out of Las Vegas,I enjoyed how straight forward you were in the information you gave. I also am from Colorado, Wolf Creek,
God bless and merry Xmas.
Louis
December 14, 2008 11:28 PM
I was in the audience this weekend and I want to say that I was absolutely encouraged by the generosity shown by Joel and other speakers. To have an impact in the world we need to be open, genuine and giving and that is what Joel is in spades. And of course the great sense of humour helps too. Thank you Joel for helping to make the world a better place.
Changing the world one hug at a time,
Melanie
December 15, 2008 10:23 PM
I was also in the audience this past week and took away a lot of awesome information. I think it is awesome that you are so willing to share yourself with others. I look forward to learning more and more from you as I put into action your methods!
December 16, 2008 03:02 AM
Yo uultimatly want the audience to relate to you. If you give the impression that you are way better and gifted than the 'average person' people can't relate to you as much. If you are easy to talk to you have much better to succeed big time.
December 19, 2008 07:21 AM
as a newby myself, it is nice to read success stories from those who have made it in the internet world.