Restoration

29 Dec Restoration

We recently watched a television special about the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. We had the pleasure of visiting the cathedral years ago, so we were mesmerized watching each phase as this world-class monument was brought back to life.

In the special, one of the art conservators used an iPad featuring a cathedral painting, darkened by time and smoke. The conservator used her index finger to pull down the dark screen to reveal the newly restored painting. It was remarkable: the dark, dull image was now vivid and brilliant.

As you step into the blank slate of this new year, what can ensure your success? The work you do and speak about may need restoration. Perhaps the fundamental information and concepts are sound, but your presentation has been dulled by time and repetition.

Expand your palette and paint images in the mind of the listener. Enliven your approach. Find ways to pull the screen down to reveal the brighter images you are presenting. Metaphors and similes are brain food. Counter-intuitive opens and closings can engage and be memorable. You don’t have to recreate all of your talks. Simply revise your material in a fresh way. May you have peace in your heart and fire in your belly for a purposeful and successful 2025.