HOW IS IT GOING TO END?

Today, I want to share an idea that might not be fully researched, and forgive me if I get the movie wrong, but it’s sparked by a memorable moment in "The Truman Show." In the final scene, as Truman stands on the brink of stepping out of the life that was his entire world, he turns and asks, "How does it end?" And that’s exactly what you need to ask yourself when you're presenting or working on material in front of the camera.

It’s crucial to know where you’re headed and, most importantly, where you'll land. Your through line—the energy that guides your presentation—is like a string of pearls, each beat flowing into the next. Without a clear ending in sight, your message might get lost. Think of your ending as the destination that pulls everything together, the place where your audience finally grasps that magnificent idea you’re sharing.

If there's one takeaway from today, let it be this: figure out where your communication ends. Whether it's a timed presentation, a blog post, or a chapter in a book, you need to know the boundaries of your piece. How many words, seconds, minutes, or pages will it take? With a rhythm in mind, your ideas will naturally fall into place like pearls rolling off a string. But if a beat is unresolved, your audience might get stuck, puzzling over that loose end and missing your next key points.

One technique I swear by is planning out a series of beats—those little chunks of content that help keep your message on track. Think of it this way: if you’ve got a three-minute piece, aim for about six beats, roughly one for every 30 seconds. Each beat can be broken down into about three sentences, balancing length and cadence. This creates a rhythm that feels engaging and natural. Avoid overly complex sentences or jargon that could trip you up, especially if you’re trying to speak fluidly.

To make this work, jot down just one or two words per beat. Keep it simple. These words will act as visual anchors, keeping you focused without the distraction of reading off a script. The aim is to speak with the natural flow of conversation, not as if you’re reciting a speech. Your transitions should feel smooth, with each beat leading to the next, guiding your audience seamlessly to your conclusion.

Ultimately, you want your presentation to end with clarity and purpose. A strong ending not only ties your whole piece together but also ensures that your audience leaves with the exact message you intended. So, when you're crafting your next presentation, blog, or any form of communication, remember Truman’s question: "How does it end?" Because if you know where it ends, so will your audience—and they’ll appreciate the journey you've taken them on.

So, go ahead—craft your ending, set your sights on that final beat, and deliver your message with confidence and clarity. Whether you're on camera, at a microphone, or typing away at your keyboard, make sure your pearls land just where you want them to.

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