The Power of the Human Voice

Introduction

• The human voice is a powerful instrument.
• It can start wars or express love.
• Many people feel unheard when speaking.
• The goal: to speak powerfully and create change.

Seven Deadly Sins of Speaking

1. Gossip
   • Speaking ill of others not present.
   • Repercussions: trust issues.
2. Judging
   • Difficult to listen if one feels judged.
3. Negativity
   • Example: Negative conversations can be draining.
   • Affects listener engagement.
4. Complaining
   • Common in the UK; spreads negativity rather than positivity.
5. Excuses
   • Avoids taking responsibility; leads to disengagement.
6. Embroidery (Exaggeration)
   • Demeans language; can lead to lying.
7. Dogmatism
   • Confusing facts with opinions; hard to listen to.

Four Cornerstones of Powerful Speech: "HAIL"

• H: Honesty
  • Be true and clear.
• A: Authenticity
  • Be yourself, stand in your own truth.
• I: Integrity
  • Keep your word; be trustworthy.
• L: Love
  • Wish people well; temper honesty with kindness.

Voice Toolbox

• Importance of how we say things.

Key Elements to Enhance Speaking

1. Register
   • Locate voice for authority; lower register is often preferred.
2. Timbre
   • The quality of the voice; can be improved with training.
3. Prosody
   • The sing-song quality that imparts meaning; avoid monotony.
4. Pace
   • Vary speed for emphasis; use silence effectively.
5. Pitch
   • Adjust pitch for meaning; can convey different emotions.
6. Volume
   • Use volume effectively; avoid "sodcasting."

Vocal Warm-Up Exercises

• Importance of warming up before speaking.

1. Arm stretch and deep breath with a sigh.
2. Lip buzzing exercise (Ba, Ba, Ba).
3. Tongue exercise (la, la, la).
4. Rolling R (Rrrrrrr).
5. Siren exercise (weeeaawww).

Conclusion

• Current state of speaking is often ineffective.
• Envision a world with conscious sound creation and consumption.
• Aim for a world of understanding and beautiful sound.
• Good speaking habits can lead to greater communication and connection.