Fast Talkers, Take the Stage: Why Authenticity Beats Perfection

In a world that often demands polish and perfection, embracing your authentic self can be your greatest strength. Here's why passion and individuality matter more than trying to fit the mould.

Stop apologising for who you are

Last week, I heard something during a speech that stopped me in my tracks. The presenter said, “Don’t apologise for talking too fast.” It was so simple, yet it hit me deeply. For years, I’ve been told I talk too fast. I’ve even apologised for it more times than I can count. But hearing that unapologetic declaration made me realise something: if talking fast is part of who I am, why should I be sorry for it?

This sparked a reflection on authenticity - not just in how we speak, but in how we show up in every aspect of life. Why do we feel the need to apologise for being ourselves? Why is “polished and perfect” the goal, when passion and personality are what truly resonate?

The Power of Being Real

Authenticity isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being human. When you speak from a place of passion - fast-talking or otherwise - people feel it. They connect with it. In marketing, leadership, or even casual conversations, your ability to be real will always outweigh the pressure to be polished.

Reframing the “Flaws”

What we often see as flaws - talking fast, being overly animated, or even stumbling over words - are the very things that make us relatable. They’re what make us memorable. Instead of apologising for these traits, why not embrace them? Own your quirks. They’re part of your story.

Why Passion Matters More

Passion is contagious. Think about the people who’ve inspired you. Were they always perfect speakers? Or were they so deeply passionate about their message that you couldn’t help but lean in? It’s the latter, isn’t it? Passion has the power to move mountains, while perfection often feels hollow.

Breaking Free from Expectations

Whether in marketing or everyday life, the pressure to fit a certain mould can be overwhelming. But here’s the truth: the world doesn’t need more cookie-cutter professionals. It needs more real, passionate people who aren’t afraid to speak - and live - their truth.

Turning Red, Owning It

Here’s something I’ve learned to own: I go red. Every time I present, or even when I’m called on to speak in a meeting, regardless of how well I know my subject or the audience, my face betrays me. For years, it embarrassed me, and yes, unkind people pointed it out in ways that stung. But over time, I’ve realised it’s simply who I am. It’s a reflection of my passion for what I do and the energy I bring to every conversation. If that makes others uncomfortable, well, that’s their issue - not mine.

Reflections:

Authenticity isn’t about striving for perfection - it’s about owning who you are, quirks and all. Over the years, I’ve learned to embrace the parts of myself I once saw as flaws: talking too fast, going red when I speak, or showing more passion than polish. These are the traits that make me, me.

What I’ve realised is that when you show up as your authentic self, people connect with you in a way they never could if you were holding back. It’s not about being the smoothest speaker or the most polished professional. It’s about being real, being passionate, and being unapologetically you.

So here’s my reflection for today: embrace the things that make you unique. They’re not weaknesses - they’re your superpowers.