The ability to speak from the heart is an element of public speaking that is often overlooked. Speaking from the heart refers to the ability to create a speech that is sincere, honest, and memorable. Many speeches overlook these crucial characteristics, which can cause the speaker to struggle to connect with their audience--and a speech that lacks “chemistry” also lacks sincerity and "heart."
So, how do you go about making your speech heartfelt? First, you need to know your audience. Understanding the audience's expectations helps you ensure that your content resonates at a personal level. Once you know your audience, make sure to connect with them by creating an emotional balance. For instance, portions of your speech should be inspirational and uplifting; other parts may need to be serious and profound. Last but not least, understand the importance of your words. Each word either complements your speech or distracts from your message, so choose your words wisely.
Consider these important elements any time you write your own speech or evaluate someone else's because these techniques are what makes a speech memorable. Watch the video and learn more about a famous, heartfelt speech.
Video Title: Right to Learn
In 2012, Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani sixteen-year-old who spoke up for the rights of girls, paid a high price for her activism. She was shot by members of Taliban, an Islamic extremist group that is fighting to control the country of Afghanistan. While riding the bus home from school, Yousafzai was shot in the left side of the head and, miraculously, survived. The attack was horrific, but it did not stop Yousafzai from trying to make a difference in the lives of children in the region where she lived.
In 2013, after months of surgeries and rehabilitation, Malala Yousafzai delivered a brave, heartfelt, and memorable speech to the United Nations. In this excerpt, it is easy to identify the strategies and techniques that made her speech powerful.
"Dear friends, on 9 October 2012, the Taliban shot me on the left side of my forehead. They shot my friends, too. They thought that the bullets would silence us, but they failed. And out of that silence came thousands of voices. The terrorists thought they would change my aims and stop my ambitions. But nothing changed in my life except this: weakness, fear and hopelessness died. Strength, power and courage was born. I am the same Malala. My ambitions are the same. My hopes are the same. And my dreams are the same. Dear sisters and brothers, I am not against anyone. Neither am I here to speak in terms of personal revenge against the Taliban or any other terrorist group. I am here to speak for the right of education for every child. I want education for the sons and daughters of the Taliban and all the terrorists and extremists. I do not even hate the Talib who shot me."
Yousafzai’s speech to the UN incorporated her personal experiences, numerous rhetorical strategies, and inspirational ideas. It was celebrated for its honesty and elegance, and in 2014, Yousafzai was honored in a special way for her brave work—she became the youngest person ever to receive a Nobel Peace Prize.
