Leaders Paint a Picture of the Future

Leaders use speeches to paint a picture of the future that is often wildly more optimistic than conventional wisdom.

John F. Kennedy pledged to direct the Federal Government’s energies to put a man on the moon by the end of the 1960’s.

Martin Luther King called for a world where his children would be judged solely on their character.

Bill Gates told his employees and investors of his dreams to control the insides of most people’s computers.

Jack Welch aimed for being number one or two in every sector GE was in, in part, by firing the bottom 10% of employees each year.

Ronald Reagan spoke of bringing down the Berlin Wall

Bill Clinton spoke of balancing the budget.

In each case, these leaders articulated goals that many people thought were impossible. By speaking out, repeatedly, on their goals, these leaders helped crystallize attitudes and actions to make their dreams become reality.

That’s the ultimate power of speaking. You don’t have to be a world leader to put this power into action. The power of painting a picture of the future is available to anyone willing to make a presentation.