Public speaking is a skill we all need, whether we realize it or not. Many people believe it is meant only for pastors, leaders, politicians, or the heads of organizations. This is far from the truth. No matter who you are, there will come a time when you must speak in public. It may not be in a church or on a big stage; it could be at work, in your community, or even at a family gathering. That is why it is important to take public speaking seriously and invest in learning it.
Imagine a trader in the market. You might think such a person doesn’t need public speaking skills, but that’s not true. A trader must convince customers to buy goods and services. This requires the ability to speak confidently and persuasively. If a trader is shy or lacks communication skills, it will be difficult to win people over. In the same way, parents often need to express their thoughts clearly to their children. Whether it is to guide, correct, or encourage them, parents must be able to communicate without fear or hesitation.
Public speaking is also important in family settings. For instance, you might be asked to give a speech at a wedding, a birthday, or even at a funeral. If you are unprepared, you may feel nervous and embarrassed. This is why it’s better to practice ahead of time rather than waiting for such moments to come. To get better at it, you must do it regularly. You can volunteer in groups that sensitize or educate people or even take opportunities in your community or workplace to address small groups. Consistent practice is the only way to grow.
Today, I had my first real experience of public speaking in my church. I was unexpectedly called to give the announcements during the service. Honestly, I was shocked because I wasn’t informed ahead of time. Although I had started attending meetings, I never imagined I would be asked to stand before the whole congregation so soon. At first, I felt overwhelmed by the crowd. It was very different from my usual experience as a teacher.
As a teacher, I am used to speaking to my students in the classroom, but public speaking is on another level. When you stand before a large audience, it’s not just about talking; it’s about connecting, engaging, and making people feel your message. My hands were a bit shaky at the start, but as I went on, I gained a little confidence. That experience taught me an important lesson: no matter how much we think we are prepared, there is always a difference between regular talking and true public speaking.
From today, I have made up my mind to take public speaking seriously. I want to keep practising and improving so that when next I am called upon, I will be ready. Public speaking is not something to fear but a skill we must all develop because, sooner or later, we will need it.
