Public speaking evokes change in the lives around us. It allows you to be of service and share your passions and gifts. Becoming a better speaker and communicator is a way to reach all of these goals. Luckily, there are many who walked the path of better speaking. Here are 5 of the smartest things ever said about public speaking that will help you become a more passionate, connected, and successful speaker.

There are only two types of speakers in the world. 1. The nervous and 2. Liars. – Mark Twain

You're nervous. I'm nervous. The most experienced speaker's still get nervous. Let's face it – you will never get over your public speaking anxiety. You can learn to cope, thrive, and fly to speaking success despite the stampede of horses in your stomach and your knocking knees. Accept the nervousness as a natural part of caring your about your audience. My best tip to help you deal with those presentation jitters – know your introduction. By the time your introduction is over, the adrenaline subsides and your nerves will be behind you.

A good speech should be like a woman's skirt: long enough to cover the subject and short enough to create interest.
― Winston Churchill

Ahh Winston, you cheeky minx, teasing us with such a great quotation. I often tell my clients to serve the audience's needs, but you can't solve all their problems. Create interest and buzz in your talk, but keep it short. Like a beautiful women in a sexy outfit, you don't have to give all your secrets away. Now, if only would tell some of the Hollywood starlets this!

90% of how well the talk will go is determined before the speaker steps on the platform. – Somers White

Preparation and practice are the foundation for a successful speech. You can never just wing it. You have to practice. Everyone tells you that practice is key. Not many people discuss HOW to practice a speech. Practicing a speech is weird. Standing in your living room talking to no one but the audience of your pets. Do you need a process for practicing your presentation? Download the guide for practicing your presentation in just 10 minutes a day. You'll be prepared for success the next time your step on the stage.

They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel. – Carl W. Buechner

Speaking is about creating an emotional connection with the audience. Always ask yourself what do you want your audience to feel as the last word falls from your lips. Building a relationship with your audience is the most powerful thing you can do as a speaker. Your vulnerability is the key to fostering connection. Be exactly who you. There should be no difference between how you are on-stage versus how you are off-stage. Your audiences feels because you are real.

No one ever complains about a speech being too short! – Ira Hayes

The greatest show of respect you can ever give your audience is to end your speech on time. Better yet, end your speech early. No audience has ever said “Man, I wish that speaker went over by 15 minutes.” Time limits are there for reason. Respect those limits and show you care about your audience.

What is the smartest piece of advice you ever received about giving a speech? Post it in the comments below.