Humor
Question: To what or whom could I offer some valuable lightheartedness today?
My Story:
When Max agreed to be the MC at his sister’s wedding, he knew it was more than just introducing speeches and keeping things moving, it was about setting the tone for one of the most important nights of her life. Public speaking had always come naturally to him, but this time was different. It was personal. He wanted it to be perfect, not just good.
In the lead-up to the wedding, Max brought this goal to his coaching conversation with Colleen. She encouraged him to think about the kind of energy he wanted to bring to the evening. He didn’t want the spotlight; he wanted to set a warm, engaging tone for his sister, their family, and their friends. Max decided to focus on four of his top strengths … Connector, Authenticity, Spotlight, and Humor.
The Connector strength came easily. Max thrives on bringing people together, and knowing most people in the room that night helped him feel energized. Authenticity required a little more reflection. He realized that to truly make an impact, everything he said had to come straight from the heart. It wasn’t about performing; it was about being real. Spotlight was trickier. Max didn’t love being the center of attention, especially when the night wasn’t about him. But he found a way to use the spotlight with intention, not to shine on himself, but to light up everyone else. He learned that you can still hold the room without making it about you.
And then there was Humor, one of his favorite strengths. He knew it would be crucial to strike a balance between emotion and lightness. He kept things fun and engaging without taking away from the sentiment of the moment. He felt more at ease when he was authentic and used this energizing Humor strength to relate to the guests, drawing them into the moments he mentioned, and creating some joyful laughter to add to the merriment of the occasion.
Right before stepping up to the microphone, Max grounded himself by quietly revisiting those four strengths. And it worked! It turned out to be the best public speaking experience of his life. Guests came up to him all night, including a man whose speeches he had long admired, praising him for his natural and heartfelt delivery.
That night became a turning point for Max and a reminder of what he’s capable of when he leans into the core of who he is. And every time he steps into a moment that calls for presence, connection, and poise, he thinks back to that wedding, those strengths, and the confidence it gave him to lead with purpose.
The best version of myself came out when I focused on my strengths, not to be the center of attention, but to bring people together, speak from the heart, and create joy.”
- Max
