Today’s article is a powerful one. We’re talking about something that strikes fear into the hearts of many but has the power to completely change your life: public speaking. Now, before you say what??? —hear me out. Public speaking isn’t just for politicians, TED Talk speakers, or corporate executives. It’s for you. Especially if you’ve recently been laid off from a Fortune 1000 company, left a government job, or you’re just sitting at your desk right now wondering, “Is this really it?”—then this article is for you.
Let’s start with the obvious: public speaking is scary for most people. Glossophobia—it’s even got a name. But here’s what I want you to hear: the reason it's scary is the same reason it's so powerful. It’s vulnerable. It forces you to show up fully and be seen.
When you’re going through a life transition—like losing a job or choosing to leave one—it can shake your confidence. But learning to speak in front of others helps you rebuild that confidence, step by step.
Every time you speak, you're reclaiming your voice. You're telling the world: I still matter. I have something to say.
And here’s the secret most people don’t realize: public speaking isn’t just about standing on a stage. It’s about how you show up in job interviews, team meetings, networking events, and yes—even on your LinkedIn posts or your personal podcast. It's about how you tell your story.
Public speaking forces you to get clear on your thoughts. What do you believe? What do you want to say? What’s your message to the world?
This clarity is critical during a career reinvention. Whether you're launching your own business, switching industries, or just trying to figure out your next move—public speaking is a way to process and communicate your evolution.
It also helps you build resilience. You mess up. You forget your words. Your voice shakes. But you survive. And over time, those moments that used to make you want to disappear? They become badges of honor.
You start saying things like, “If I can speak in front of 20 strangers, I can definitely pitch my idea in this meeting.” That growth changes how you see yourself. And when you grow in self-respect and courage? That’s when the real transformation begins.
Let’s talk about happiness. One of the greatest human desires is to be heard. To feel like our voice matters.
When we speak up—whether it's sharing our story, our values, or our expertise—we begin to connect. Not just with others, but with ourselves. That connection is deeply fulfilling.
Public speaking also invites you into communities. Toastmasters, storytelling groups, networking events, panel discussions—these are places where people are doing the work of becoming more confident and more connected. And that social connection is a key ingredient to long-term happiness.
Also, public speaking opens doors. Someone hears you talk and says, “Hey, I want to work with you.” Or “That story you told? It changed how I see things.” It reminds you that what you’ve been through isn’t just a struggle—it’s a message.
Now, let’s zero in on the heart of the show—reinvention.
If you've been laid off or left a job you hated, you're probably wondering how to stand out in this next chapter. Here's how: start telling your story. You don’t have to wait for a stage. Share your journey on social media. Speak at a local community group. Record a short video. Start your own podcast. Offer to lead a lunch-and-learn at your co-working space. You’ll be amazed how sharing your voice attracts opportunities.
Public speaking also forces you to package your experience. That layoff? That burnout? That moment where everything fell apart? Those aren’t just setbacks—they’re chapters in your reinvention story.
When you can share those moments with grace, honesty, and strength—you become a leader. Not just in your career, but in your community.
Let’s talk about some real-life examples.
Here I'm going to tell you my own story. When I was a kid I was one of the mini bears in the Goldilocks and three bears play at my school. My whole family came to see the play.
When it was time to go on the stage, I was petrified. I wouldn't go. I was crying like a big wuss. Behind the curtain.
Later in life, I realized that I needed to get over my fears. I started working with small groups of people, speaking to them about. The things I knew about.
It was super hard at first.. They tell you, you have to imagine these people being naked. Or some crazy thing like that. Which, by the way, that doesn't work.
But I got good at it. Spoke to a few. 10 to 30 or 40 people at a time. Then even hundreds at a time. The more I did public speaking, the better I got and the more comfortable edit I became.
To day. It's actually kind of fun. Even though at one time, I was that little kid crying behind the curtain that wouldn't go out on the stage..
How do you get started?
Here are five steps:
- Join Toastmasters – Seriously, it’s one of the best places to practice.
- Volunteer to speak – Look for opportunities in your community, online events, or even podcasts.
- Practice storytelling – Write out key moments of your life. What did you learn? What’s the message?
- Record yourself – Even on your phone. Watch it back. Learn. Improve.
- Say yes – If someone asks you to speak, say yes. Even if you're nervous. Especially if you’re nervous.
Remember, no one starts out perfect. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection.
Why does public speaking matter? Because when you speak up, you step up. You stop waiting for someone to hand you a life and you start designing one. You go from surviving to thriving.
In the aftermath of job loss, career confusion, or life transition, finding and using your voice can be the most radical act of self-empowerment. And that’s what we’re all about here at Life by Design 360.
If you're listening to this and thinking, “Maybe I should start sharing my story,”—do it. Just do it. I promise, someone out there needs to hear it. And more importantly, you need to tell it.
You’re in for a very special treat tomorrow on our LifeByDesign360 Tuesday articlr. I’ll give you every secret, every strategy, every technique we know of to help you get through a layoff, find the best job with the best benefits and set yourself up for massive career success and the pathway for real financial freedom.
Be sure to subscribe at LifeByDesign360 to be sure not to miss any important update.
Each week you'll get specialized info you can’t get anywhere else to help you get the job you want now, create a side hack and an income that you can never get fired from and get on the fastest path to retirement success and financial freedom.
Also be sure to look out for openings in our LifeByDesign360 Insider Academy and Community. There you’ll find all the coaches, the courses, the resources and an amazing community of people going through what you’re going through, who are utilizing the tools for maximum success.
This information gives you the upper edge, no matter what.
Thanks for visiting Life by Design 360. If this article inspired you, share it with someone who’s on their own reinvention journey. And if you’ve got a public speaking story or want to share how you're using your voice, I’d love to hear from you—drop me a message or tag me on social.
Until next time, I’m Doug Reed—reminding you that your voice is not just important, it’s essential. Speak up, live bold, and keep designing your life, one brave step at a time.
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