Reading Log #3

Book: How To Deliver  A TED Talk
Author: Jeremey Donovan

Today, October 23rd, is a big day for TEDxNTUST: It’s our team’s annual TEDxEvent. Through out the past few months, we had been gathering all the resources we could find, organizing every details and confronting various kinds of barriers. Thanks to our belief, we held a successful speech which ultimately delivered the core notion of this year’s theme: Wall Breaking.

I work as the host of the event. To be honest, I never thought that I would have the opportunity to stand on the same stage with TED Talksters, who have incredible stories to share and ideas to spread. Considering I didn’t have enough experience to hold a event, I thought I would never make it. Writing scripts is one thing, while performing is another. I had no choice but to practice hundreds of times and had nightmares for several days. I couldn’t sleep well under this pressure, so I found myself a way to release it, which is to listen to one of our performer’s debut album. Music is indeed a helpful way to exchange thoughts and emotions. According to the book, ideas can be conveyed through all kinds of methods, not just words or speeches.

We had a really wonderful and unforgettable experience. From this experience, we met new friends from different places and shared individual thoughts and comments. I believe this was why TED was invented in the first place: Creating a platform for people who have amazing thoughts or stories to communicate with each other. This is my first time working as a host, and it’s definitely not going to be the last time. There are still plenty of opportunities awaiting me in the future.

“Don’t ever underestimate your abilities, because you have your own stories to tell.” this was a quote from my script, and was also the best line to end today’s reading log. Although I had not much time to read the book, I did have wonderful memories which were beyond any words or pages. Maybe next time, if possible, I’m going to be the Talkster on the stage! There’s a long way to go, and it’s time for me to move on!