When I decided to become a public speaker, there were lots of things that had to come true within me. I needed to expand my vocabulary, so I would study word cards while sitting at a traffic light in my car or while waiting on an appointment. I learned how to say “I don’t know” and feel comfortable asking people what a word meant when they used it. This is important, because you often learn that someone taught you inaccurately. I had to develop my wardrobe and know what colors were best for me when I was in front of an audience. I took voice lessons so I could project my voice and use my vocal cords properly. I was willing to make lots of mistakes to become a speaker without notes and develop an extemporaneous speaking style. Lots of time, energy, and practice went into this development.

When we see someone who is really good at speaking, writing, singing, or acting, we are so quick to assume that their talent came easily; we neglect to consider all the ways they may have had to come true to become that gifted. We see people who are addiction-free or who seem to “have it together,” and we often lose sight of all the journeys, days, and ways in which these individuals have had to come true to be who they are.

You really have to decide if you are ready to come true.