Avoid These, But Only If You Want to Stand Out (60-Second Storytelling Tip #97)
Channel: Speaking CPR
Date: 2021-10-04

A common problem I see in stories is that they are filled with cliches, statements that have been passed down over the years. So many people say them they become commonplace. This is a sign that somebody is intellectually lazy, they're not trying to challenge their audience with new thoughts, they're just borrowing other people's. 

A great example of a ‘non-cliche’ comes from Verity Price, who I mentioned in the last video. In her 2021 World Championship speech, Verity mentions her father is an optimist, but she doesn't say, He's an optimist.” Instead, she says, "My father didn't look at the world as a glass half full or half empty, he was just happy to have the glass at all."

Now, I'm paraphrasing her, she said it more eloquently, which you can see in her video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k24vGzEjePo&t=220s). 

What I love about it is she took what sounded like another cliché — glass half full —  and twisted it to something I'd never heard before. That was one of many reasons her speech stood out. Terrific message delivered in her unique voice. 

When you're putting your stories together, be critical. Take a hard look and say, "Is this statement a cliche? Have other speakers said this? Will it help me stand out?” 

Put your creative hat on and find a unique way, your perspective on an old idea. 

In the next video, you're going to hear my perspective on standing ovations.

PICK UP MORE KEYS TO PRESENTATION AND STORYTELLING MASTERY
Attend our weekly Livestream presentations about Storytelling, Virtual Presenting, and Humor in Your Presentations. Join me on Facebook Live, Linked In Live, or YouTube Live every Friday at 4:30 pm (Eastern) / 1:30 pm (Pacific). No need to sign-up, just show up and enjoy the presentation.