One of my favorite quotes comes from Stephen R. Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People:
“Begin with the end in mind.”
It’s a simple idea, but a powerful one. I’ve used it countless times—when I’m writing a speech, drafting a book chapter, or shaping a proposal. When I feel stuck, I ask myself: What will this look like when it’s complete? That mental image of the finish line always helps me get unstuck and move forward with clarity.
But this concept isn’t just helpful for writing. I use a version of it in my corporate public speaking trainings—and it creates some of the most meaningful moments of the entire workshop
Start with a Feeling, Not a Slide Deck
At the beginning of each training, I ask participants a simple but powerful question:
“How do you want to feel after this public speaking training?”
It's a twist on Covey’s advice, helping participants not just think about their goals but feel them.
To make this exercise more playful and creative, I bring out a deck of 52 miniature watercolor paintings—each one depicting a different object or scene. These are called Climer Cards, created by the Dr. Amy Climer to inspire creativity in workshops.
Tapping into Emotion Through Imagery
The responses I get from this card exercise are always insightful—and often moving.
One introverted leader picked a painting of an elephant and said:
“After this training, I want to feel comfortable taking up space on a stage. Like an elephant!”
Another quiet manager chose a lightning bolt and said:
“I want to feel energized about my next speaking gig—rather than nervous. This lightning bolt makes me feel excited, not scared.”
These moments show me just how powerful it can be to begin with emotion, intention, and imagination—especially when stepping into something as vulnerable as public speaking.
Why the Tools You Use Matter
The Climer Cards do more than just break the ice. They unlock a sense of play, creativity, and connection that traditional icebreakers often miss. They help participants visualize their transformation before we dive into any technique or feedback. And that vision? It sticks.
It’s no surprise the creator of this tool, Dr. Amy Climer, is also an exceptional speaker—bringing a sense of joy and creativity to every stage she steps onto.
🎧 Listen In: “Bringing Your Big Self to the Stage” with Dr. Amy Climer
I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Amy for an episode of my podcast. We talked about how to bring your whole, big, authentic self to the stage—whether you’re a seasoned speaker or still finding your voice.
She shares:
Her journey as a speaker and creativity coach
How she designed Climer Cards and how YOU can use them
Tips on stepping out of fear and into full expression when speaking
👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform.
Final Thoughts: Begin With Your End in Mind
The next time you’re preparing for a presentation or training, don’t just think about what you want to say—think about how you want to feel when it’s over. Confident? Energized? Joyful?
That feeling can be your guide.
So whether you’re channeling a thunderbolt or an elephant, give yourself permission to begin with the end in mind—and speak from that place of vision, energy, and presence.