The Power of Speaking: Seven Deadly

Sins and Four Cornerstones

Introduction
In the TED Talk "The Power of Speaking: Seven Deadly Sins and Four Cornerstones,"
Julian Treasure explores the art of effective communication. He highlights the seven deadly
sins of speaking and presents four cornerstones that can make our speech powerful and
impactful. By understanding and implementing these principles, we can improve our ability to
communicate and make a positive change in the world.

The Seven Deadly Sins of Speaking

1. **Gossip**: Speaking ill of someone who is not present. Gossiping not only damages
relationships but also diminishes our credibility as a speaker.
2. **Judging**: Passing judgment on others during conversations can make people feel
defensive and unwilling to listen. It is important to create a non-judgmental environment for
effective communication.
3. **Negativity**: Constantly expressing negative thoughts and opinions can be draining for
both the speaker and the listener. It is essential to maintain a positive outlook to engage
others in meaningful conversations.
4. **Complaining**: Excessive complaining spreads negativity and does not contribute to
productive discussions. Instead, focus on finding solutions and expressing gratitude.
5. **Excuses**: Avoiding responsibility and blaming others for our actions hinders effective
communication. Taking ownership of our words and actions builds trust and credibility.
6. **Embroidery (Exaggeration)**: Exaggerating or embellishing the truth can undermine our
credibility as speakers. It is important to be honest and authentic in our communication.
7. **Dogmatism**: Confusing facts with opinions and imposing our beliefs on others can
hinder open and meaningful conversations. It is crucial to respect diverse perspectives and
engage in respectful dialogue.

The Four Cornerstones of Powerful Speaking

To make our speech powerful and impactful, Julian Treasure suggests standing on the four
cornerstones, which spell the word "HAIL":

1. **Honesty**: Being true and straightforward in what we say. Honesty builds trust and
fosters open communication.
2. **Authenticity**: Being ourselves and speaking from our own truth. Authenticity allows
others to connect with us on a deeper level.
3. **Integrity**: Being true to our word and following through on our commitments. When we
have integrity, people trust us and are more willing to listen.
4. **Love**: Wishing others well and approaching conversations with a positive and
compassionate mindset. Love helps us avoid judgment and creates a safe space for open
dialogue.

Tools for Powerful Speaking

Julian Treasure also introduces several tools that can enhance the power of our speech:

1. **Register**: Exploring different registers of our voice, such as chest, throat, and nose,
can add depth and authority to our speech.
2. **Timbre**: Developing a rich, smooth, and warm voice can make our speech more
pleasant to listen to. Voice coaches can provide guidance on improving timbre.
3. **Prosody**: Utilizing prosody, the sing-song aspect of speech, can convey meaning and
engage listeners. Varying pitch, pace, and volume adds emphasis and captures attention.
4. **Silence**: Embracing moments of silence in our speech can be powerful. It allows
listeners to absorb information and reflect on what has been said.

Vocal Warm-up Exercises

Before important conversations or speeches, it is beneficial to warm up our voice. Julian
Treasure suggests the following vocal warm-up exercises:

1. **Arms up, deep breath, and sigh**: Inhale deeply and exhale with a sighing sound,
"ahhhh." Repeat this exercise to relax and prepare the vocal cords.
2. **Lip exercises**: Pronounce "ba, ba, ba" rapidly to warm up the lips and improve
articulation.
3. **Tongue exercises**: Say "la, la, la" with exaggerated movements to warm up the tongue
and improve clarity.
4. **Rolling R**: Practice rolling the letter "R" to improve tongue flexibility and enhance
speech.
5. **Siren exercise**: Start with a high-pitched "we" sound and glide down to a low-pitched
"aw" sound. This exercise helps to warm up the vocal range.

By incorporating these warm-up exercises, we can ensure our voice is ready for effective
communication.

Conclusion
Effective communication is a powerful tool for making a positive impact in the world. By
avoiding the seven deadly sins of speaking and embracing the four cornerstones of powerful
speech, we can enhance our ability to connect with others and create understanding.
Additionally, utilizing vocal tools and warm-up exercises can further improve the impact of
our communication. Let us strive to speak powerfully, listen consciously, and create
environments that promote meaningful dialogue.

The Power of Speaking: Seven Deadly

Sins and Four Cornerstones

Introduction
In the TED Talk "The Power of Speaking: Seven Deadly Sins and Four Cornerstones,"
Julian Treasure explores the art of effective communication. He highlights the seven deadly
sins of speaking and presents four cornerstones that can make our speech powerful and
impactful. By understanding and implementing these principles, we can improve our ability to
communicate and make a positive change in the world.

The Seven Deadly Sins of Speaking

1. **Gossip**: Speaking ill of someone who is not present. Gossiping not only damages
relationships but also diminishes our credibility as a speaker. For example, spreading rumors
about a colleague can create a toxic work environment and hinder collaboration.
2. **Judging**: Passing judgment on others during conversations can make people feel
defensive and unwilling to listen. It is important to create a non-judgmental environment for
effective communication. For instance, if we judge someone based on their appearance, we
may miss out on valuable insights they can offer.
3. **Negativity**: Constantly expressing negative thoughts and opinions can be draining for
both the speaker and the listener. It is essential to maintain a positive outlook to engage
others in meaningful conversations. For example, if we constantly complain about our job, it
can create a negative atmosphere and hinder productivity.
4. **Complaining**: Excessive complaining spreads negativity and does not contribute to
productive discussions. Instead, focus on finding solutions and expressing gratitude. For
instance, instead of complaining about a long commute, we can appreciate the opportunity
to listen to audiobooks or podcasts during the journey.
5. **Excuses**: Avoiding responsibility and blaming others for our actions hinders effective
communication. Taking ownership of our words and actions builds trust and credibility. For
example, if we make a mistake, it is better to admit it and work towards a solution rather than
making excuses.
6. **Embroidery (Exaggeration)**: Exaggerating or embellishing the truth can undermine our
credibility as speakers. It is important to be honest and authentic in our communication. For
instance, if we exaggerate our achievements, it can lead to disappointment and mistrust
when the truth is revealed.
7. **Dogmatism**: Confusing facts with opinions and imposing our beliefs on others can
hinder open and meaningful conversations. It is crucial to respect diverse perspectives and
engage in respectful dialogue. For example, if we dismiss someone's opinion without
considering their reasoning, it can create a barrier to understanding.

The Four Cornerstones of Powerful Speaking

To make our speech powerful and impactful, Julian Treasure suggests standing on the four
cornerstones, which spell the word "HAIL":

1. **Honesty**: Being true and straightforward in what we say. Honesty builds trust and
fosters open communication. For example, if we are honest about our limitations, others will
appreciate our transparency and be more willing to collaborate.
2. **Authenticity**: Being ourselves and speaking from our own truth. Authenticity allows
others to connect with us on a deeper level. For instance, if we share personal stories and
experiences, it can create a sense of empathy and understanding.
3. **Integrity**: Being true to our word and following through on our commitments. When we
have integrity, people trust us and are more willing to listen. For example, if we consistently
deliver on our promises, others will have confidence in our abilities.
4. **Love**: Wishing others well and approaching conversations with a positive and
compassionate mindset. Love helps us avoid judgment and creates a safe space for open
dialogue. For instance, if we approach a disagreement with empathy and a desire to
understand, it can lead to a more constructive conversation.

Tools for Powerful Speaking

Julian Treasure also introduces several tools that can enhance the power of our speech:

1. **Register**: Exploring different registers of our voice, such as chest, throat, and nose,
can add depth and authority to our speech. For example, using a lower register can convey
confidence and command attention.
2. **Timbre**: Developing a rich, smooth, and warm voice can make our speech more
pleasant to listen to. Voice coaches can provide guidance on improving timbre. For instance,
practicing breathing exercises and vocal warm-ups can help improve the quality of our voice.
3. **Prosody**: Utilizing prosody, the sing-song aspect of speech, can convey meaning and
engage listeners. Varying pitch, pace, and volume adds emphasis and captures attention.
For example, using a slower pace and lower pitch can create a sense of seriousness and
importance.
4. **Silence**: Embracing moments of silence in our speech can be powerful. It allows
listeners to absorb information and reflect on what has been said. For instance, pausing
before delivering an important point can create anticipation and emphasize its significance.

Vocal Warm-up Exercises

Before important conversations or speeches, it is beneficial to warm up our voice. Julian
Treasure suggests the following vocal warm-up exercises:

1. **Arms up, deep breath, and sigh**: Inhale deeply and exhale with a sighing sound,
"ahhhh." Repeat this exercise to relax and prepare the vocal cords. This exercise helps
release tension and prepares the body for speaking.
2. **Lip exercises**: Pronounce "ba, ba, ba" rapidly to warm up the lips and improve
articulation. This exercise helps improve clarity and diction.
3. **Tongue exercises**: Say "la, la, la" with exaggerated movements to warm up the tongue
and improve clarity. This exercise helps improve pronunciation and enunciation.
4. **Rolling R**: Practice rolling the letter "R" to improve tongue flexibility and enhance
speech. This exercise helps improve pronunciation and articulation.
5. **Siren exercise**: Start with a high-pitched "we" sound and glide down to a low-pitched
"aw" sound. This exercise helps to warm up the vocal range. It also helps improve pitch
control and flexibility.

By incorporating these warm-up exercises, we can ensure our voice is ready for effective
communication.

Conclusion
Effective communication is a powerful tool for making a positive impact in the world. By
avoiding the seven deadly sins of speaking and embracing the four cornerstones of powerful
speech, we can enhance our ability to connect with others and create understanding.
Additionally, utilizing vocal tools and warm-up exercises can further improve the impact of
our communication. Let us strive to speak powerfully, listen consciously, and create
environments that promote meaningful dialogue.

Quiz: The Power of Speaking: Seven Deadly Sins and Four Cornerstones

1. Which of the following is NOT one of the seven deadly sins of speaking mentioned in the
resource?
 a) Gossip
b) Judging
c) Positivity
d) Complaining

2. What is the cornerstone of powerful speaking that emphasizes being true and
straightforward in what we say?
a) Authenticity
b) Integrity
c) Honesty
d) Love

3. Which vocal tool mentioned in the resource adds depth and authority to our speech by
exploring different registers of our voice?
a) Timbre
b) Prosody
c) Silence
d) Register

4. What is the negative impact of excessive gossiping mentioned in the resource?

a) It damages relationships
b) It enhances credibility as a speaker
c) It fosters open communication
d) It promotes collaboration

5. Which of the following is NOT one of the vocal warm-up exercises suggested in the
resource?
a) Arms up, deep breath, and sigh
b) Lip exercises
c) Tongue exercises
d) Eye exercises

6. What is the cornerstone of powerful speaking that emphasizes being ourselves and
speaking from our own truth?
a) Honesty
b) Authenticity
c) Integrity
d) Love

7. Which of the following is NOT one of the tools mentioned in the resource to enhance the
power of our speech?
a) Register
b) Timbre
c) Prosody
d) Excuses

8. What is the negative impact of constantly expressing negative thoughts and opinions
mentioned in the resource?
 a) It drains the speaker and listener
b) It fosters open communication
c) It enhances credibility as a speaker
d) It promotes collaboration

9. Which of the following is NOT one of the four cornerstones of powerful speaking
mentioned in the resource?
a) Honesty
b) Authenticity
c) Integrity
d) Positivity

10. What is the negative impact of passing judgment on others during conversations
mentioned in the resource?
a) It creates a non-judgmental environment
b) It enhances credibility as a speaker
c) It makes people defensive and unwilling to listen
d) It promotes collaboration

Quiz: The Power of Speaking: Seven Deadly Sins and Four Cornerstones

1. Which of the following is NOT one of the seven deadly sins of speaking mentioned in the
resource?

a) Gossip

b) Judging

c) Positivity

d) Complaining

Answer: c) Positivity

2. What is the cornerstone of powerful speaking that emphasizes being true and
straightforward in what we say?

a) Authenticity

b) Integrity

c) Honesty

d) Love

Answer: c) Honesty
3. Which vocal tool mentioned in the resource adds depth and authority to our speech by
exploring different registers of our voice?

a) Timbre

b) Prosody

c) Silence

d) Register

Answer: d) Register

4. What is the negative impact of excessive gossiping mentioned in the resource?

a) It damages relationships

b) It enhances credibility as a speaker

c) It fosters open communication

d) It promotes collaboration

Answer: a) It damages relationships

5. Which of the following is NOT one of the vocal warm-up exercises suggested in the
resource?

a) Arms up, deep breath, and sigh

b) Lip exercises

c) Tongue exercises

d) Eye exercises

Answer: d) Eye exercises

6. What is the cornerstone of powerful speaking that emphasizes being ourselves and
speaking from our own truth?

a) Honesty

b) Authenticity

c) Integrity

d) Love
Answer: b) Authenticity

7. Which of the following is NOT one of the tools mentioned in the resource to enhance the
power of our speech?

a) Register

b) Timbre

c) Prosody

d) Excuses

Answer: d) Excuses

8. What is the negative impact of constantly expressing negative thoughts and opinions
mentioned in the resource?

a) It drains the speaker and listener

b) It fosters open communication

c) It enhances credibility as a speaker

d) It promotes collaboration

Answer: a) It drains the speaker and listener

9. Which of the following is NOT one of the four cornerstones of powerful speaking
mentioned in the resource?

a) Honesty

b) Authenticity

c) Integrity

d) Positivity

Answer: d) Positivity

10. What is the negative impact of passing judgment on others during conversations
mentioned in the resource?

a) It creates a non-judgmental environment

b) It enhances credibility as a speaker

c) It makes people defensive and unwilling to listen

d) It promotes collaboration

Answer: c) It makes people defensive and unwilling to listen

Answer Key:
1. c
2. c
3. d
4. a
5. d
6. b
7. d
8. a
9. d
10. c

1. Explain the concept of the four cornerstones of powerful speaking as presented in the
TED Talk "The Power of Speaking: Seven Deadly Sins and Four Cornerstones." How do
these cornerstones contribute to effective communication and why are they important?

2. Discuss the impact of the seven deadly sins of speaking on communication and
relationships. Choose two of the sins mentioned in the resource and explain how they can
hinder effective communication. Provide real-life examples to support your answer.

1. Explain the concept of the four cornerstones of powerful speaking as presented in the
TED Talk "The Power of Speaking: Seven Deadly Sins and Four Cornerstones." How do
these cornerstones contribute to effective communication and why are they important?

2. Discuss the impact of the seven deadly sins of speaking on communication and
relationships. Choose two of the sins mentioned in the resource and explain how they can
hinder effective communication. Provide real-life examples to support your answer.