“…until they get punched in the mouth.”
That line came from Mike Tyson. Plans look good on paper – until reality shows up.
Some people script every word. Others like to improvise. Both can work. But neither works if you can’t adapt.
If you stick to a script no matter what, you risk sounding stiff. Miss one line and you panic.
If you wing it with no structure, nerves can take over, and you ramble.
The answer is to prepare and stay flexible.
If you’re someone who scripts, rehearse until you know your ideas well enough to move things around without losing control.
If you prefer to improvise, practise enough to have a clear structure that keeps you grounded.
Because at some point, the audience, the room or the moment will throw you off.
Have a plan. Know it well. And when the punch comes, be ready to adjust.
Timeless Presenter, my new book on the principles of communication that never expire, will be released soon.
If you’d like to be notified when it’s out, you can join the early access list here.