Speaking at a TEDx Talk has been on my bucket list for years. Having spent a lot of time recently working on a project I’m very passionate about, I was excited to apply because I knew the idea of defaulting to plant-based meals would inspire many and could create real change. When I received my acceptance letter, I felt shocked, grateful, nervous, and excited all at the same time. Honored to be given a platform to share my idea, I was determined to make the most of it. I’ve spent time each day since thinking about my presentation—researching, reading, bouncing ideas off of family and friends, and practicing, with the goal of honestly expressing the pieces of my story in the most memorable way.
Once I was accepted, I wasn’t sure what to expect. At the first training, I was asked to give my talk with no preparation which, being the perfectionist I am, was difficult! But I worked my way through it and it helped relieve the stress. All of the trainings have been challenging but productive, pushing me out of my comfort zone so I’ll build a next-level talk I’ll be proud of. Seeing everyone’s excitement about my idea and presentation at each training has encouraged me to keep working even when it feels like I’ve hit a rough patch. It’s been great to feel so supported by the team.
Though I’ve done plenty of public speaking, preparing for a TEDx talk isn’t like anything I’ve done before. Being asked not to use notes to practice initially stripped away my comfort, but I’m using this challenge as an opportunity to let the ideas flow and the words come naturally. The best parts of preparing my talk so far have been realizing just how passionate I am about this idea and feeling so humbled and grateful that I’ve been given an opportunity to share it with the world. I’m thrilled that I’ll be able to connect with others through my video and make a difference for the future of our planet.
