Here is the truth.
It is never too late, or too early, to start building your speaking career.
When I was 17 years old, I flew to California for a speaking conference. Eager, excited, full of questions.
At one of the sessions, this seasoned speaker with 25 years in the game was sharing his lessons from the stage.
During Q&A, I jumped up to ask,
“Sir, I have just started speaking. Can you tell me how to book more speeches?”
Before I could even finish, he cut me off.
“How old are you?”
I said, “17, turning 18.”
He cracked a joke to the audience.
“I would not even let my daughter near you. Do not worry if this does not work out.”
The whole room laughed.
And in that moment, I had a choice.
I could have told myself,
“I am too young. I can’t do this.”
Or
I could tell myself something different.
“My age is my greatest advantage.”
And here is what I have learned since.
Every day, there are opportunities around us if we choose to see them.
It reminds me of one of my favourite stories.
Two salesmen wake up on a rainy morning.
One says, “It is pouring rain. No one will buy today.”
The other steps outside, grins, and says,
“Let’s go, baby. It is pouring rain. Everyone is home. Today is going to be an amazing day of sales.”
Same rain. Different mindset.
So if you are an aspiring or established speaker trying to grow, remember this.
It is not your age or the timing.
It is the story you tell yourself.
Every audience, every event, every day is a new opportunity if you choose to see it that way.
Tell yourself a better story.
Take the next step.
Because the speakers who keep going and keep believing are the ones who win in the end.
Sam
P.S. If you’re interested in chatting more about growing your speaking business, please DM me on Instagram.
