I’ve had the pleasure of spending the last few months working with a lawyer and public speaker named Angeli. She’s been competing in Toastmasters events for some time, but recently, I cajoled her to take her talents to a Moth StorySLAM in San Francisco, where she lives.
The next day, I found myself wondering:
Did she put her name in the hat?
Did her name get chosen?
How did she do?
Did she enjoy it?
Did her name get chosen?
How did she do?
Did she enjoy it?
Just a few minutes later, I received this message alongside some photos:
“I got lucky….I WON! Also: My secret weapon: Matthew Dicks”
I don’t think Anglei got lucky. She had a great story to tell and had spent time crafting and preparing it.
Also, I’m not much of a secret weapon.
Honestly, I think my greatest value in this situation — and many situations — was encouraging her to take the stage and try something new.
Strategy, structure, and technique are certainly helpful when it comes to performing well and winning storytelling competitions, but making that leap is often the most critical step. I know many people who dream of doing something difficult or scary, but sadly, most never make that leap, only to discover the pain of regret.
As Woody Allen famously said, “80% of life is showing up.”
A whole bunch of people never show up.
Angeli did. She took the leap and won the day.
She won the day by simply taking the stage. Her victory is thrilling and well-deserved, I’m sure, but it was her daring and desire that made her a winner.
