Here's how you can prevent burnout as an experienced public speaker.

Vary your speaking topics. Burnout often occurs because we are constantly speaking about the same topic, especially if it is a heavy topic like DEI, grief, overcoming trauma, etc. Giving yourself a bit of variety helps to keep you from being burnt out on any one topic. In this case, variety helps tremendously by keeping you engaged and constantly learning and discussing new things.

Setting boundaries is essential so that you can save time and energy for the opportunities that are really worth it. Ask yourself 3 questions: - Can I really add value to this topic? - Can I explain this topic to a 5 year old? - Do I have relatable stories and examples?

Years ago, I accepted every speaking invitation, quickly burning out. Realizing the need for balance, I started setting boundaries, focusing only on engagements aligning with my goals. This shift not only improved my work-life balance but also enhanced my effectiveness and satisfaction as a speaker. What to consider: - Define clear professional goals. - Decline engagements that don't align with your objectives. - Communicate boundaries to your team and clients. - Maintain a healthy work-life balance to sustain performance.

As a speaker, I once found myself in a rut, delivering the same workshop on leadership to various women's groups. Feeling stagnant, I decided to switch gears and delve into a new topic—personal branding. The shift rekindled my excitement, and the audience responded with newfound enthusiasm, proving the power of diversifying content.

Some resources for support: - Build a support network with mentors, coaches, or fellow speakers. - Seek guidance, feedback, and strategies from this network. - Share experiences and collaborate to manage stress and challenges. - Knowing you're not alone can alleviate burnout and boost confidence. With 20+ years as a speaker, I have leaned on my mentor many times. Another resource is to join a speaker's group.

When you have to be "On" on stage as much as you are, staying physically healthly to engage and entertain is key to being a successful speaker. Here are some things I found helpful that take less than one minute to keep me sharp on stage: 1. Stretching: . Doing some light stretching before and after a talk can get the blood pumping, ensure you're not feeling stiff or sore post-talk, and will help you sleep better. 2. Water intake: Staying hydrated is crucial staying fluid, avoiding cramps, and preventing a dry mouth during a speech. 3. Stocking up on vitamins and other cold and flu-fighting supplements can help prevent sickness or illness when talking in close proximity to a lot of people, shaking hands, and traveling frequently.

Spending some time away from speaking. Watch others speak. Listening to their voices, looking at the grimaces, and their actions at the podium. Remember what not to do, obviously not saying a word but remembering how it was done, recklessly, callously or immaturely. Speaking after all must be informative and it needs to be interesting to say the least. Unless it’s the electrical code or calculations.