Tue, 6th May 2025
AUDIENCES WANT CONNECTION, NOT PERFECTION
A few months ago, I cried during a public speech at the House of Lords (I mean, really!). You can watch it here
In that moment, I was furious with myself. I felt exposed, frustrated, and completely vulnerable.
But to my surprise, almost every person in the room came to talk to me afterward. They said things like, “I was really moved by your speech. Thank you for your vulnerability.”
It taught me something I’ll never forget: vulnerability is not weakness. It is the bridge that connects us.
The search for perfection is tempting. Don’t we all want to be the best in what we do? Isn’t that why we all work so hard?
I don’t know about you, but there is always a constant inner voice in my head (please tell me I am not alone!):
- Did I sing that line perfectly?
- Did I come across as too emotional?
- Was that moment too much… or not enough?
- Did I actually say what I meant to say?
- Was I inspiring… or just awkward?
- Will they still respect me after that?
- What filter can help disguise my dark circles today? (Yep, also have those days…)
I wish I could always remember that, when it comes to really impacting people’s lives, there is a plot twist:
Audiences don’t want you to be perfect.
They want real. They want passion. They want something they can feel connected to.
I know that because this is exactly how I feel when I am in the audience. I want to see warmth, genuine interaction. I want to see people taking risks, being brave enough to be fully themselves – even if it’s messy.
So as I write this today, I try to remind myself that real connection happens when you know your material so well—your song, your subject, your speech—that you allow space for YOU to come through.
This focus enhances everything:
- Your presence.
- Your authenticity.
- Your delivery.
Remember to bring people on stage with you.
We need the audience as much as they need us. And that’s why the people who dare to be vulnerable are the ones who can truly connect with others.
A Note from the Greats
“Be messy and complicated and afraid and show up anyway.”
– Glennon Doyle
Backstage Picks
The power of vulnerability | Brené Brown | TED
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Until next time. Remember to breathe deeply and sing boldly.
Forward this to someone who could use a little more courage before they take their next leap.
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LET’S CONNECT