The genie and the three wishes

One day, a man was strolling along the beach and stumbled upon an old lamp. He picked it up and gave it a good rub.

- FRANCIS J. KONG

POOF! A genie appeared and offered him three wishes.

"First," the man said, "I'd like a million dollars."

POOF! A mountain of money appeared at his feet.

"Second," I'd like a brand-new Italian sports car."

POOF! The car materialized, engine humming smoothly.

He threw the money in the car, ready to live the dream when the genie called out: "You still have one more wish!"

The man grinned smugly and said, "Make me irresistible to women."

POOF! He turned into a box of chocolates.

Be careful what you wish for. Be even more careful what you say.

Words can transform, inspire or backfire—and in public speaking, they accomplish all three at record speed.

Over the years, I've delivered thousands of keynotes and conducted countless full-day leadership training sessions.

Here's the deal: the real challenge is not in talking, but in saying the right things at the right time.

I have observed numerous speakers who possess both good intentions and talent, yet fail to deliver because their words do not connect with their audience. Sometimes it's nerves.

At other times, it's the temptation to be edgy or humorous.

I've watched audiences shift in seconds from smiling and leaning in to whispering and crossing their arms in resistance.

It's painful to witness. Worse still, you're the one holding the mic.