The Psychology Behind Motivational Speaking: How It Influences Behaviour

Have you ever seen a motivational speaker that had such an impact, they changed the way you think...even just slightly?

Motivational speaking is more than just an inspirational talk. Great speakers are real story tellers and story tellers have been shaping human history for thousands of years. It's this ancestry that ensures speakers today continue to impact audiences.

But can speakers really change behaviour? I believe they can. Having seen more speakers than I count in the last 27 years, the really good ones have certainly influenced and shaped the way I think today.

One of the core psychological principles at play in motivational speaking is emotional resonance. Yes that sounds very technical but essentially it's the speakers ability to create an emotional connection to the audience. These emotional bonds drive us to reflect on our lives and inspire us to seek positive changes.

Good motivational speakers are also masters at helping audiences create vivid imagery in their minds to convey their messages, making them memorable and relatable.

Another vital psychological element is the cultivation of self-efficacy. Motivational speakers that effect real behavioural change are the ones who share their own engaging stories that help shape a narrative about who they are, what they have achieved/learnt and what's possible for the audience.

So the next time you see a speaker who really resonates with you, try and take just one of the key messages from their talk and see if you can weave this into your life. Remember that beneath the words lies a profound understanding of how psychology can shape our actions and lead us toward positive change.

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