We all have fears, and we all must find the tools to combat them. I love reminding people that they have everything they need inside themselves. Nobody need look outside their own hearts for the answers. Each of us has the power to take responsibility for our lives and make the right choices. Motivational speakers are there to remind you of this. They kick-start your spirit, and get you thinking about what practical steps are necessary to accomplishing your dreams.
There is no greater joy than to embolden people, and help spin their desperation into motivation.
Greatness is contagious! Positive energy has the ability to spread like wildfire. When we are the best we can be, we inspire those around us to match our energy, enthusiasm and confidence. As a motivational speaker I have seen this firsthand. It’s a real blessing to be able to connect with an audience and touch others in a positive way. When I step out onto a stage, I consider it a sacred duty to be at my best. I know that sitting somewhere in the crowd is at least one person whose life I can change, and whose soul is hungry for a message of hope.
As a motivational speaker, I share the inspiring stories of my past before, during and after foster care. I am open and honest about my own vulnerabilities as it empowers those who hear. It’s a blessing to know that we are not alone in enduring the struggles of this life. Generally speaking, our culture shies away from discussions of fear, anxiety or self-doubt. We are encouraged to bury or ignore these monsters who want to steal our joy in life. We want Superman more than we want Clark Kent. I consider it my job to bring fear into the light of day—not so we can dwell on it, but so that we can honestly acknowledge it before overcoming it.
Though I would never go so far as to say being abandoned into foster care was a great experience, it did teach me many valuable lessons. I am in no way exaggerating when I tell you I lost everything. I was only five years old when I was torn away from everything I knew. My parents, my siblings and all the extended family I’d already come to know. I lost the comforting feelings of security that come from having a place to call home. I lost my confidence, dignity, and identity. I blamed myself for not being good enough, for not being worth keeping.
When a child feels a lack of self-worth, they feel it completely. There is no intellectual removal, no way to step back and see it all as a product of an unhealthy environment. It seeps down into the very foundation of who they are. When I was stuck in this swamp of negativity, it was a tremendous gift to hear the encouraging words of others. People who wanted me to succeed provided me a context for my own troubled thoughts and feelings, and made me see that I was not to blame for the mistakes of those whom I trusted.
The positivity these people provided was the first tool of my overcoming. Even as a young boy, I began to realize there was a light at the end of the tunnel. There would be an end to the suffering. I knew I needn’t succumb to fearful thoughts of anxious doubt. Life, I came to understand, was a beautiful adventure. When we approach it that way we gain confidence, and when we have confidence nothing can stop us.
I remember all those who encouraged me with a deep reverence and gratitude. I am so proud to be carrying on their work and legacy. One day, perhaps you will do the same. Remember, greatness is contagious!
By Derek Clark
Derek Clark is an inspiring motivational speaker for personal and professional development. He is the author of six inspirational books and speaks on never limiting life and the power of determination.
