One of our particular weaknesses as humans is a lack of fortitude in the face of the unknown. We’re…different from our animal brethren, loftier in our mental state and occupied by more abstract concerns like love, acceptance, goodness, etc. Thus, oftentimes it’s the not knowing that causes more misery than a finite state of displeasure. The man that can genuinely fear losing everything is less happy than a man who feels secure, even if the latter’s luxuries are minimal compared to the former.
The best public speakers wield the power of the unknown like any of the best suspense filmmakers in Hollywood past and present. With a dynamic mix of rhetoric and silence, the audience is fed meaningful content then allowed to think. Too often, presenters are afraid to let the people think, as if they might instantly revert to daydreams of swimming in pools of candy if left to their own devices. In fact, if you are diligent enough to provide significant content, they will match your diligence with their minds. Giving them time to think in this context is more akin to marinating a steak–time is of immense value–than letting water out of a tub. You don’t need to fear losing the audience; in fact, you can expect them to follow you more easily.
I was once told by a teacher, for reasons I won’t disclose, that it is better to be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt. Our society, at times, places far too much importance on talking. Granted, one can’t pantomime a series A fundraising pitch, but silence allows your message to travel unimpeded by the constant noise of your own voice. I’m not saying you have a bad voice, I’m just saying that when the content counts, sometimes individuals need an opportunity to move a level or two deeper in their thoughts.
Think about it.
