How to Become a Motivational Speaker Posted: 04 Apr 2019 05:00 PM PDT When you think of motivational speakers, you might think about self-help gurus telling you how to channel your inner child or visualize your path to success. However, motivational speakers can deliver presentations and speeches on any topic. What counts is your passion for the subject you are addressing. Become a motivational speaker by developing your message, brushing up on your public speaking skills, and promoting your speaking abilities. EditDeveloping Your Message and Niche - Read, watch, and listen to other motivational speakers. Familiarize yourself with the works of other motivational speakers and see if there are any that resonate more with you than others. Consider the content of their speeches and the way they deliver it as you expose yourself to different motivational speakers.[1]
- Try watching TED Talks or Youtube videos of motivational speeches.
- Read books, articles, and blogs written by motivational speakers.
- Check out motivational podcasts.
- Write down all of your ideas for material. Try to describe the message that you want to deliver through your speaking engagements. What topic do you want to focus on? Career? Relationships? Spirituality? What is your focus within this area? Entrepreneurism? Writing? Marriage? Parenting? Christianity? Buddhism?[2]
- Write down as many ideas as you can think of and keep adding to your notes over time.
- Select a niche in the topic you have chosen. This will depend largely on your own experiences and qualifications, so reflect on what you bring to the table on this topic. How is what you have to say different from what other people are saying? What experiences and knowledge do you bring to the conversation that is special?[3]
- For example, perhaps you started your own interior design business and you hope to inspire others to do the same.
- Or, maybe you successfully published a book in a short amount of time and you want to pass on what you have learned to others.
EditWorking on Your Stage Presence and Content - Take a public speaking course to develop your skills. Check with your local community college or see if there are any public speaking groups in your area that you can join. This will give you a chance to develop and practice your public speaking skills. You may even be able to test out some of your speeches on these audiences and ask for feedback.[4]
- You can also look for other opportunities to speak in front of an audience, such as offering to give a speech at a friend or family member's wedding, attending open mic nights at a local comedy club or bar, or hosting your own weekly live stream or podcast.
- Ensure that your speech has an engaging beginning, middle, and end. A well-organized speech will be easier for your audience to follow. Think about your speech as a story and decide what should come first, second, third, etc. Aim to open with something attention-grabbing, such as a shocking fact or an interesting anecdote.[5]
- For example, if you plan to give a speech on how you overcame an obstacle in your life, then start by sharing about what the obstacle was and perhaps providing a bit of context about the situation.
- Then, talk about how the obstacle affected you, what changed in your life, etc.
- Conclude by explaining in detail how you overcame the obstacle.
- Read and revise your speech multiple times before giving it. Once you have a well-developed speech, take some time to read through it carefully and revise what you have written. Expand on any details that seem unclear, rewrite any confusing sections, and don't be afraid to cut out material that doesn't work.[6]
- Plan ahead so you have lots of time to revise your speech before you give it for the first time. Aim to revise at least 3 times before your first speaking engagement.
EditMarketing Yourself - Create a website with information about yourself and your message. Having a website that includes information about your message, who you are, and how you can be reached is essential to getting work and promoting yourself. Take some time to set up a professional quality website or hire someone to create one for you. Then, share the web address with everyone you know to start promoting yourself.[7]
- Write a blog, make videos, or publish a book. Getting your ideas out into the world will help you to build a reputation and market yourself as a public speaker. Try writing a book or making a video about your experiences or around the problem that you hope to solve with 1 of your speeches. Start a personal blog for your public speaking career and post on it a few times per week.[8]
- For example, if you want to give motivational speeches on starting a business, then you could write a how-to book or a series of blog posts on the subject.
- If you want to motivate people to improve their relationships, you could create a video series with relationship tips or answer common questions about relationships in your videos.
- Tell people that you are looking for public speaking engagements. Word-of-mouth is an excellent way to promote yourself as a public speaker. Tell your friends, family, coworkers, and acquaintances that you are embarking on this career. Hand out your card or contact information to everyone you meet.[9]
- Networking events are a great way to gain contacts and start getting work via word-of-mouth. Check to see if there are any upcoming events in your area that you could attend and meet people.
- Reach out to local organizations and offer to speak for them. If there are relevant organizations in your area that hire public speakers, then contact them and offer your services. Consider what organizations might sync up with the type of public speaking you offer and focus on those organizations.[10]
- For example, if you overcame drug addiction and want to inspire others to do the same, you might contact local rehabilitation centers or hospitals.
- If you struggled in school due to a learning disability, but then found a way to overcome it and become successful, then you might contact local high schools to offer your services.
- Apply to speak at conferences, conventions, and other events. There are many events that actively seek people to speak. Look into any relevant conferences, conventions, or other events in your region and apply to be a speaker.[11]
- These can be competitive, and you might not get paid in the beginning, but doing these types of events can help to spread your name by word-of-mouth and get you more work as a public speaker.
EditUsing Effective Techniques During Your Speeches - Wear a nice suit or dress when you speak. Looking professional is a great way to make a good first impression on your audience and improve your credibility before you even open your mouth! Put on a nice suit or dress to give your speech, style your hair, do your makeup (if you wear it), groom your facial hair (if you have any), and choose a nice pair of shoes that match your outfit.[12]
- Stay in 1 place while you are speaking and avoid pacing or fidgeting. It is okay to move once in a while during your speech, but make sure that you move with purpose and stop speaking whenever you change locations. When you get to the new location, plant your feet firmly beneath your shoulders and stand tall while you are speaking.[13]
- Avoid swaying back and forth while you are speaking. This gives the impression of uncertainty and can be distracting to your audience.
- Engage with your audience to keep them interested. Think about how you might tell your story to a friend and talk to the audience in a similar way. If there is anything in your speech that might be unfamiliar or confusing, take a moment to put it into terms your audience can understand.[14]
- Make sure to compliment the audience on their competence, accomplishments, or anything else you know about them.
- Make eye contact with 1 person at a time during your speech. Look for a friendly face in the audience and lock eyes with them for a few seconds. Then, scan the audience again and lock eyes with someone else. Continue to do this throughout your speech to connect with your audience.[15]
- Avoid looking up, down, or off in the distance. This will give the impression that you are nervous and detract from your credibility.
- Gesture with your hands for emphasis occasionally. While waving your hands constantly while you are speaking can be distracting, the occasional hand gesture can add emphasis to your speech. Try raising 1 or both hands to emphasize a point once every few minutes. Keep your hands relaxed and at your sides the rest of the time.[16]
- Don't put your hands in your pockets, clasp them together, or cross your arms. These are defensive postures that will make you seem nervous.
- Avoid fidgeting with objects, such as a microphone, water bottle, or your cell phone during the speech. This will be distracting for your audience.
- If you need to hold a microphone, hold it in 1 hand. Don't pass it back and forth.
- Project your voice to the last row if you don't have a microphone. If you end up giving a speech to a group of people without the benefit of a microphone, you will need to speak up to compensate. It might seem like you are yelling at first, but this is better than speaking so quietly that some audience members won't be able to hear you.[17]
- Take deep breaths and use your diaphragm to help you project your voice from your belly, rather than from your chest or throat.
- Watch videos of your speeches to improve your performance. Have a friend or family member record you while you are giving your speech. Then, watch it later and look for areas that you might improve. Ask for feedback from friends, family, or a public speaking coach as well.[18]
- For example, if you notice that you tend to say "um" or clear your throat a lot during a speech, then you could work on correcting this behavior.
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How to Raft the Grand Canyon Posted: 04 Apr 2019 09:00 AM PDT A rafting trip can offer you the rare opportunity to explore the heart of the Grand Canyon, whether you're a whitewater veteran or a first-time adventurer. Before you book a guided trip with an area rafting company or apply for a solo permit, it's important to consider a few factors, such as the length of your outing and time of year you'll be setting out. You'll also need to pack appropriately to prepare yourself for the unpredictable conditions of the Colorado River and surrounding desert and ensure that your experience is a safe and comfortable one. EditPlanning a Rafting Trip - Decide on a time of year to go. The Grand Canyon sees most of its tourism in the summer between May and September. This is when the chilly water of the Colorado River will be most hospitable. However, you might also consider planning your trip for one of the bookend months of April or October, when the river and other nearby natural areas tend to be less crowded.[1]
- One neat thing about the water in the Grand Canyon is that it originates from a man-made reservoir, so it never gets much colder than about . This means that water temperature won't be as much of a concern if you schedule your trip later in the year.[2]
- Consider how long you have to spend on your adventure. The majority of guided trips led by commercial rafting companies can be completed in a single afternoon. Self-guided outings, however, can take quite a bit longer, as they tend to be less tightly regimented. Don't forget to factor in travel time to and from your launch site when determining a time frame that works for you.[3]
- Most rafting companies organize outings by length. For example, you might sign up for a half-day, 2-day, 5-day, 7-day, 10-day, or 15-day trip, depending on who you book with.
- All-in-all, it takes an average of about 15 days to raft the entire length of the Grand Canyon's waterways. The various sections of the river can be traversed in hours or days.
- Select the type of raft you want to take. Unlike some other notable whitewater destinations, you have a few different means of conveyance to choose from when rafting the Grand Canyon. Many shorter trips take place in motorized rafts, which offer a more leisurely sightseeing experience. You also have the option of paddling an oar-powered raft or old-fashioned wooden dory if you want to test your skills and get a little exercise.[4]
- Be sure to specify the type of raft you want to reserve when you book your trip. Your choice of vessel may determine the specific route you end up taking.
- You can even kayak sections of the Colorado River with a special permit. Kayaking can be an exciting alternative to group rafting for advanced solo paddlers craving a challenge.[5]
- Schedule a guided trip with an area rafting company. Get in touch with one of the many commercial outfitters operating in the Grand Canyon to set up a reservation. Guided trips won't typically need to be booked more than about a day ahead of time. They can fill up quickly, though, so the earlier you reserve your slot, the better.[6]
- One of the biggest perks of going through a rafting company is that they'll take care of all the important planning, including travel routes, departure times, and meal breaks.[7]
- Commercial outfitters provide rafts, oars, life vests, helmets, and all other necessary equipment to their guests. If you plan on making a self-guided trip, you'll need to bring these things yourself.
- Apply for a permit for self-guided trips at least one year in advance. If you're a veteran rafter determined to brave the river on your own, your first step will be to fill out a Diamond Creek to Lake Mead Permit Application. You must submit your completed application to the United States National Park Service no earlier than one year prior to your intended launch date. Be aware that permits are granted on a first-come, first-served basis, so there's no guarantee that you'll receive one.[8]
- It doesn't cost anything to submit an application. However, the Hualapai tribe who owns the surrounding land does charge a small access fee to adventurers crossing through their territory. You'll need to make arrangements with the tribe on your own by calling 928-769-2210.[9]
- The National Park Service only authorizes two non-commercial trips to set out from the Diamond Creek launch site per day. Each outing is restricted to a total of 16 participants.
- Be prepared to hike the Bright Angel Trail to reach your launch site. Both Upper and Lower Canyon routes start with a long foot trek through Bright Angel Trail. The trail, which spans and climbs around in elevation, as been rated "strenuous" by the National Park Service. Due to its difficulty, the hike is only recommended to adventurers who are in good physical condition.[10]
- If you don't think you're up to the challenge, you also have the option of scheduling a 3-5-day Western Canyon trip or 6-18-day Full Canyon trip, both of which end with a helicopter or car ride out of the Canyon.
- The craggy, sun-baked trail is well-maintained, but offers little shade, so make sure you bring plenty of water.[11]
- Watch the weather closely in the days leading up to your trip. A sudden change in the weather has the potential to severely complicate a routine pleasure trip. Guided outings may even be cancelled if river conditions become too tumultuous. If the forecast doesn't look promising, it may be safest to put your trip on hold until you see clearer skies.[12]
- Monitoring the weather will also give you a better idea of what types of items you'll need to bring with you.[13]
- If you obtained a permit for a solo venture, it can't be cancelled due to dangerous weather. Keep in mind that if you decide to go ahead with your trip, you'll be doing so at your own risk.
EditPacking for Your Adventure - Provide your own equipment for non-commercial trips. As a solo adventurer, you'll be expected to show up with all your own gear. This means a raft, main and spare oars, life vest, helmet, and cargo net or platform at the bare minimum. It's also a good idea to keep a life preserver or rope bag onboard your raft, plus a first aid kit containing pain relievers and supplies for treating minor wounds.[14]
- It may be possible to rent some or all of your rafting equipment on-site once you arrive at the Grand Canyon.
- Self-guided rafters are advised to pack a signal mirror and 2 international orange-colored panels to flag down help in the event of an emergency.[15]
- Bring along enough clothing to dress in layers. The weather in the Grand Canyon can fluctuate between hot and cold in the course of a single day. Wearing multiple layers will allow you to shed or pull on additional items as needed as the temperature changes. Ideally, most of your clothing should be made from quick-drying materials like nylon, neoprene, polyester, or wool.[16]
- Items like a waterproof jacket, insulated paddling gloves, and a hat with a bill or visor and strap are a must.[17]
- Don't forget to pack a few spare dry garments for the journey back. Kicking around in soggy clothes isn't very comfortable.
- Select appropriate footwear for both wet and dry activities. Plan on wearing either sandals or amphibious water shoes while you're on the river. If you'll be hiking the Bright Angel Trail on your way in or out, be sure to pack a pair of hiking boots or sneakers sturdy enough to hold up to miles of rocky terrain. All of the footwear you bring should lace on or strap-on securely.[18]
- Consider picking up a pair of neoprene socks if you're prone to cold feet or pruney toes.
- Stock up on food and water to last you the duration of your trip. When heading down the river on your own, you'll be left to your own devices as far as sustenance goes. Your best bet is to prioritize nutritious, calorie-rich offerings that take up as little space as possible. Protein bars, nuts, and MREs are all easy, cost-effective choices that will help keep your belly full for a few days.
- If you prefer a hot meal, throw a small pan or skillet in with your gear. You may have the opportunity to cook over an open fire at one of the many campsites along the way.
- Meals are often included in the cost of booking a multi-day outing with a commercial rafting company.[19]
- Bring a camera to capture the beauty of your surroundings. You'll be treated to some truly sublime sights during your time in the Grand Canyon. Along with the rushing whitewater and towering desert cliffs, the National Park grounds are home to a diversity of wildlife, included hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, and large mammals like bighorn sheep, elk, and mountain lion. You'll no doubt want to record these moments to commemorate your adventure.[20]
- A waterproof case for your phone or digital camera can make a wise investment.
EditEnjoying Other Activities During Your Trip - Set up camp along the river if you're embarking on a multi-day trip. Unless you're only completing a short route, it will be necessary for you to stop and camp overnight. You're in for a treat, as the atmosphere of the Grand Canyon National Park makes for some of the best camping in the U.S. You'll fall asleep beneath the open sky with rushing waters at your side and wake up to the spectacular sight of the sunrise glowing on the red rocks of the looming canyon walls.[21]
- There's only one established campsite at the bottom of the Grand Canyon: Bright Angel Campground. Fire pits, clean drinking water, and maintained bathroom facilities are among the amenities that you'll find there.
- Backcountry camping is also allowed anywhere within the canyon itself, as long as you've obtained a backcountry permit ahead of time. Contact the National Park Service for more information on how to apply for a permit.[22]
- Pause periodically for a relaxing swim. Chances are, you'll be pretty worn out after a few hours of intense paddling. When you feel like you need a break, find a safe place to ground your raft and take a dip. The cool, calm waters will soothe your tired muscles and leave you feeling refreshed and ready for the next leg of your journey.[23]
- Stick close to your raft and the rest of your group, and avoid entering any part of the river where the current picks up.
- Watch your step in shallow areas. The banks of the Colorado River are populated by numerous animals, including a few dangerous ones like rattlesnakes, massasaugas, and scorpions.[24]
- Go cliff jumping at one of the nearby falls. On your way down the Colorado, you'll pass several waterfalls marking the river's descent. Satisfy the thrillseeker in you by hiking up one of the adjacent outcroppings and showing off your best cannonball. Just make sure you pick out a spot that's deep and free of obstructions before you take the plunge. In some stretches, the depth of the river can vary widely in just a few feet.[25]
- Havasupai, Mooney, and Beaver Falls are all popular cliff jumping spots within the Grand Canyon. But be warned—some of these cliffs are as high as , so they're definitely not for the faint of heart![26]
- Don't take off from anywhere you see a "No Jumping" sign posted, no matter how tempted you might be. These areas have been deemed unsafe by park authorities.
- Your local outdoor center or sporting goods store can be a good place to find high-quality waterproof clothing and accessories.
- For more information on the Grand Canyon or Colorado River area, pick up some travel literature or read through the website of the Grand Canyon National Park.[27]
- Rafting can be a dangerous form of recreation, even for experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Always take the proper safety precautions and keep your wits about you while you're on the water.
- Removing, vandalizing, or causing damage to any natural features inside a national park is a federal crime.
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How to Apply Lipstick Without Liner Posted: 04 Apr 2019 01:00 AM PDT If you have lost or forgotten your tried-and-true lip liner, fret not! You can still apply your lipstick without your liner. Try using your lipstick as your liner by drawing a careful line with a brush, cotton swab, or the lipstick itself. You could also use your foundation as a substitute for lip liner. You'll be able to easily create beautiful lips no matter what product you use. EditTracing a Line with a Brush or Lipstick - Select a brush to apply your lip color with, if you have one. It will be easier to apply your lip color if you have a brush. Typically, long brushes with a pointed tip work well for lip color application.[1]
- With a brush, you have a lot of control over the line you draw. You can draw cleaner, straighter lines with a brush as opposed to a lip liner.
- If you don't have a brush, you could use a cotton swab.
- Drag your brush or cotton swab across the tip of your lip color. You want to get a small, even amount of color on your brush or cotton swab. Avoid putting too much lipstick on it, as it could look messy.[2]
- If you are using liquid lipstick, dip the brush or cotton swab into the tube.
- Use the lipstick itself if you don't have a brush. The pointed end of the lipstick can work well for outlining your lips.
- If your lipstick is flat and no longer has a pointed end, you're better off using a brush or cotton swab.
- Draw your lip line in a shape that pleases you, starting with your top lip. Using your brush or your finger, apply your lipstick like you would lip liner. Start at the center, and trace the outline of your top and bottom lips. Follow your lip's natural shape or slightly exaggerate the lines.[3]
- Press lightly and use short, even strokes.
EditUsing Two Shades of Lipcolor - Use a darker shade of lipstick as your lip liner for contrast. Instead of using a lip liner pencil, you can use your lipstick as your liner. Select the another color than your lipstick, like a darker color for contrast.
- Use a light lipstick shade to highlight the rim of your mouth. This will still give your lips a barrier to apply lipstick but with a lighter contrasting shade, like pink or nude.
- Trace around your lips with the thin, pointy edge of the lipstick or brush. Follow the natural edge of your lips, and draw a line around the outside.
- Color in your lips with your lipstick. Using your brush or finger, blend in both colors as you reach the red outer line. This is a fun way to add more dimension to your lips.[4]
- You can choose a dark red lipstick to line your lips, and then use a bright pink lipstick for your lip color.
- Just be sure to blend the 2 colors well as a visible dark outline can look dated.
EditSubstituting Foundation for Your Liner - Apply your foundation as normal. Using a powder or liquid foundation, cover your face with foundation to even out your skin tone and prepare for your lipstick.
- Apply a light, even coat of foundation around the edges of your lips. Go around the top and bottom edge of your lips, blending foundation into your skin. This will act as your lip liner. You can apply your foundation to the edges of your lips with your fingers or with a lip brush.[5]
- Your lipstick needs something to stick to, and foundation—or concealer! —works well as a substitute for liner.
- Note that this technique may make your lipstick appear lighter.
- Apply your lipstick, starting with the center of your upper lip. Rub the stick over your lips to apply your lip color. Follow the natural line of your lip rather than following the line you would typically draw with a lip liner.[6]
- Be careful not to ingest your foundation. You are applying it only to the outer edge of your lips.
- Blot your lipstick, then reapply it. Put a piece of tissue between your lips and lightly press them together. Then, reapply your lipstick using the same technique as before. This will help you build up pigment without creating a thick layer that will bleed.
- Touch up your lip line with your lipstick, lip brush, or foundation. Your line may already be smooth and crisp, though if you need a touch up, use the edge of the lipstick or use a lip brush and smooth over the edge of your lips.[7]
- You can also apply another light, even coat of foundation around your mouth to correct any mistakes.
- Apply lip balm to keep your lips moist and hydrated to keep your lipcolor vibrant and your lips hydrated.
- Use a swab from an already used or "dead" lipstick or lip gloss.
EditThings You'll Need - Lip balm
- Lipstick
- Foundation or concealer
- Lip brush or cotton swab
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