Summary
Highlights
Boy Abunda discusses gestures in public speaking, noting that while there are no strict rules, excessive gestures can be distracting. He introduces the concept of a 'power pose' as a method to build confidence, emphasizing that comfort is key to confidence. He defines confidence as knowing you can deliver your message.
Abunda uses the 'Bahay Kubo' (a traditional Filipino hut) analogy to explain speech structure. The 'roof' represents the beginning and ending, the 'body' is the message, and the 'pathway' consists of techniques and stories. He stresses that preparation and having a clear message are crucial for confidence, but also advises being flexible and listening to the audience.
A student asks about the reasons behind the fear of public speaking. Abunda defines fear as knowing something can go wrong, and anxiety as repeating those negative thoughts. He advises against practicing in front of a mirror and instead suggests practicing with a friend to change the mindset from self-consciousness to connection. He also shares a personal anecdote about forgetting his speech and overcoming it.
Addressing how to keep an audience engaged during long speeches, Abunda suggests shortening talks if needed and keeping the structure flexible. He recommends using anecdotes to support and explain the message, and to conclude by tying back to the beginning. He highlights that public speaking is audience-driven and mentions 'adobo style' as a metaphor for the varying ways to structure a speech.
Abunda shares his personal preparation rituals, including staying hydrated and familiarizing himself with the stage before any major speaking engagement. He recounts an experience where he keynoted a conference for professional speakers, highlighting the importance of stepping into uncomfortable spaces for personal growth and relying on faith.
He demonstrates a breathing exercise where one breathes in positive memories and exhales with a smile. He emphasizes the importance of a 'declaration' when walking onto the stage, setting an intent for the audience to connect with the speaker's message.
Abunda discusses overconfidence as a negative trait that can alienate the audience, making them feel inferior. He advises presenters to avoid being condescending. When facing critical judges or audiences (like in a pageant), he stresses preparedness, quick thinking, and not letting self-doubt interfere. He introduces the 'freedom exercise' to help speakers relax and accept imperfections.
To address the use of filler words like 'um' and 'uh,' Abunda suggests being conscious of them and learning to pause effectively. He explains that pauses can be powerful and that the fear of being judged for pausing is a self-imposed limitation stemming from a 'fear of criticism'.
Abunda firmly believes public speaking is a developable skill, intertwined with storytelling. He introduces the 'instinct exercise' for raw, immediate responses and the 'rationality exercise' for logical, reasoned answers, advocating for their regular practice. The combination of instinct, rationality, and active listening makes for a powerful speaker.
A student shares a personal embarrassing public speaking moment and how they recovered. Abunda concludes by reiterating that public speaking is about one's core, truth, and story. He emphasizes that when a speaker stands before an audience, they represent not just themselves, but also their family, experiences, and ancestors – helping them 'discover their power to tell their story'.