At Café Mila, we believe that nourishing the mind is just as important as nourishing the body. That’s why we’re excited to explore the world of public speaking, TEDx events, and the art of crafting well-articulated points of view. Join us as we delve into the insights and experiences shared by Sukh Pabial, an occupational psychologist passionate about all things learning and development.
The Joy of Listening to Well-Delivered Public Speaking
Sukh Pabial is a self-proclaimed enthusiast of public speaking, and he’s not alone in his appreciation for this captivating art form. “Well-delivered public speaking is a joy to listen to,” he says. “The way someone articulates what they have to or want to say, the intonation of their voice to provide different emphasis, and the message itself – done well, public speaking can move you, inspire you, and motivate you.”
It’s a sentiment that resonates with many of us. There’s something powerful about a speaker who can command a room, captivate an audience, and convey their message with passion and precision. Whether it’s a TED Talk, a keynote address, or a thought-provoking presentation, the ability to communicate effectively and engage the listener is a true art form.
Giving People the Opportunity to Shine
Interestingly, Pabial believes that we don’t always provide enough opportunities for people to develop and showcase their public speaking skills. “I don’t think we give people enough opportunity to do public speaking,” he observes. “I enjoy public speaking, and I pay a lot of attention to how I deliver a talk. But, public speaking can be learned. It can be practiced, and you can get really good at it.”
This observation is particularly insightful, as public speaking is often seen as a daunting task, especially for those who may not have had the chance to hone their skills. Pabial suggests that we should be more intentional about creating platforms and environments where people can explore and refine their ability to communicate effectively.
Drawing Inspiration from Comedians and Music Artists
Pabial finds inspiration in the public speaking prowess of some unexpected sources – comedians and music artists. “For me, comedians are the best at public speaking,” he says. “I’m a big fan of Michael McIntyre (a UK comedian), and I’ve seen him perform live four times – each time commanding a room of nearly 15,000 people. Comedians don’t just get up and deliver. They rehearse and practice meticulously. Everything matters.”
Similarly, Pabial is impressed by the attention to detail and the level of preparation that music artists bring to their live performances. “I also think music artists are brilliant at public performances,” he shares. “This year, my kids were super fortunate to see Bruno Mars live (an American R&B singer), and a bhangra artist called Diljit Dosanjh. They loved both performances immensely. Music artists obsess over every detail of their performance. Nothing happens they haven’t practiced and know very, very well.”
These examples highlight the importance of dedication, practice, and a deep understanding of the craft of public speaking, regardless of the specific medium or context. Comedians and music artists serve as inspiring models for how to captivate an audience and deliver a message with authenticity and impact.
The Nuances of Crafting a Compelling Narrative
As Pabial listens to public speakers, he pays close attention to the subtle nuances that can make a presentation truly engaging. “I pay a lot of attention when I’m listening to someone deliver a talk,” he says. “What are they saying? Why does it make sense? I’ve heard a lot of talks, and it’s quite common to hear many similar notes, talking points, and analogies. These days, I’m more interested in how those similar talking points are used to help the speaker land their message.”
Pabial recognizes that it’s not always about introducing something entirely new. “The thing is, it’s not always about something new,” he explains. “It’s more about the story, the narrative, and the message that someone wants to share. If you want good thinking, many books can provide that. But a public talk can provide emotion more viscerally – although, arguably, a well-written book can do this too.”
This insight underscores the importance of crafting a compelling narrative and using familiar elements in a way that resonates with the audience. It’s not just about the content itself, but about the way it’s presented and the connection it creates with the listener.
The Power of Vulnerability in Public Speaking
Pabial’s recent experience at a local TEDx event further reinforced his appreciation for the power of vulnerability in public speaking. He was there to support his nephew, who was delivering a talk on “the intersections of creativity,” and he was struck by the bravery and authenticity displayed by the speakers.
“There is a lot of vulnerability that comes with public speaking, and regardless of how it’s delivered, we should always be mindful that it matters for the speaker,” Pabial reflects. “My nephew told his story, and it filled me with such pride. He owned his story. It was and is his to tell. I love that so much. And I saw many other speakers on the day do the same.”
The speakers at the TEDx event shared deeply personal narratives, exploring topics such as men’s mental health, the importance of representation, the impact of community on grief, and the risks children face in the digital age. Pabial was inspired by the courage and vulnerability displayed by these individuals, who were willing to step onto the stage and share their stories with the world.
Cultivating a Culture of Thoughtful Public Speaking
Pabial’s experiences have led him to believe that we should create more opportunities for people to engage in thoughtful, well-articulated public speaking. “I’m an occupational psychologist by profession and am passionate about all things learning and development, creating holistic learning solutions and using positive psychology in the workforce,” he shares. “And just listening to people talk in an environment where what they say, and how it’s delivered, can bring out such rich and fresh thinking is a joy to experience.”
At Café Mila, we share Pabial’s belief in the power of public speaking to inspire, educate, and connect. That’s why we’re dedicated to creating a space where individuals can come together to share their stories, explore new ideas, and engage in thoughtful discussions. Whether it’s through our TEDx-style speaker series, community events, or workshops on public speaking and communication skills, we’re committed to fostering a culture of thoughtful, well-articulated expression.
So, the next time you visit Café Mila, be on the lookout for opportunities to experience the joy of public speaking. You never know whose story might captivate you, whose message might inspire you, or whose vulnerability might touch your heart. After all, as Pabial reminds us, “it’s important for people to share their stories,” and we’re honored to provide a platform for those stories to be heard.
