The Surprising Reasons Why Some Decline TEDx Invitations

Have you ever received an invitation to speak at a TEDx event, only to find yourself turning it down?

This has happened to me on a few occasions, particularly when attending the TEDxJCU event in Cairns, Australia, where I have served as a coach for the past five years.

Personal Experiences with Declining Invitations

Some reasons for declining an invitation are more personal than one might imagine. For instance, when I was in Ireland without the funds to attend, I declined to speak. At the time, one of my dear sister, Rosanne O'Reilly Runte, was serving as the President of The Club of Rome, the Chancellor of Carleton University, and a member of the Bank of Canada. She had recently delivered a speech to the United Nations on the rights of women, children, and the homeless, for which she was paid a significant sum. This made me feel unwilling to take the stage, especially when I was homeless at the time and believed my words lacked the financial backing of a paid speaker.

Public Speaking and the TEDx Journey

While it can be daunting, taking the stage at a TEDx event is about sharing wisdom, not ego. However, the pressure to perform is real, and it often affects even those who have been selected due to the strength of their messages. Every year, a couple of speakers inevitably change their minds at the last minute. These speakers often fear their ego will be dented, but the reality is that the audience values the gift of wisdom and the unique perspectives these speakers bring.

A Battle of Willpower: The TEDx Speaker's Journey

The journey of a TEDx speaker can feel a bit like a marlin fishing competition. Speakers will often pull away at the last moment, but with firm persuasion and support, they are eventually reelled back in. The effort can be tiring, but the outcome is always worth it. After the event, these individuals are always filled with pride and a newfound confidence in their public speaking skills.

A Personal Choice: Academic Credentials vs. Public Impact

Some speakers choose to present at TEDx events for their academic credentials. This choice leaves them with a dilemma: do they want to impress a handful of academics or would they prefer to share their wisdom with thousands of ordinary people who might understand it more deeply?

As a coach for TEDxJCU, my role is not only to support these speakers but also to guide them in understanding their true purpose. The TEDx platform offers a unique opportunity to make a real social impact, and every speech, no matter how seemingly small, can change lives.

In conclusion, declining a TEDx invitation may stem from personal circumstances, fears, or a simple choice between academic credentials and public impact. However, the journey of becoming a TEDx speaker can be deeply rewarding, both personally and socially. If you ever feel the urge to decline an invitation, remember that the gift of wisdom and the strength of your message can truly make a difference in the world./p