By James Chase

I teach classes on public speaking, and one of the most important success principles I emphasize is the Law of Cause and Effect. If a speaker wants to be truly effective, understanding this law is essential. Ralph Waldo Emerson called it “the law of laws,” and for good reason. While many people focus on the Law of Vibration—the part of the process where we initiate our ideas and intentions—it’s the Law of Cause and Effect that actually brings those intentions into form. It’s what carries out the manifestation.

We’ve all heard the saying: “For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.” In simpler terms: what you give is what you get.

This law becomes especially powerful when our thoughts and actions are aligned. When they work in harmony, our desired outcomes tend to unfold more naturally. In public speaking, that means clearly identifying the impact you want to have—and then taking purposeful steps to deliver your message in a way that supports that goal.

If, instead, your focus is on your fear of being in front of an audience, that thought becomes the cause—and the effect will likely reflect that fear. Your speech won’t land as powerfully as it could.

The key is this: your thoughts and actions must support each other. And both must be rooted in purpose.

So, ask yourself: What is your ultimate purpose? How do you want your audience to feel when you're done speaking? Can you picture them feeling that way?

Purpose is foundational. It’s one of the first principles of public speaking. A clear, intentional purpose not only anchors your message but also guides how you deliver it.

To truly understand this, listen to one of the most iconic speeches of all time—Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream.” That speech didn’t just happen. It began with a purpose so powerful that it continues to shape public consciousness more than fifty years later. His message still resonates because the purpose behind it was clear, unwavering, and passionately carried out.

That’s where great speaking begins—with a clear and powerful purpose. When you start there, you can trust the Law of Cause and Effect to inspire and support you as you bring your message to life.

_________________

•   To discover how to start choosing more effectively now, read The Jackrabbit Factor (FREE!)  
•   If you want more step-by-step guidance on creating the life you really want, join me in the Mindset Mastery program.
•   If you want my help overcoming that giant obstacle right in front of you, learn more and sign up for Genius Bootcamp.