Impromptu

PROLOGUE

The Soul of This Book

Every book—whether autobiographical, fiction, business, or general interest—comes out of the author's inner being. Some go deeper into that place than others do. Even more than my two previous books, Speaking as a Leader and Taking the Stage, this work comes out of a very personal journey.

It all began when I was asked to give an impromptu speech in seventh grade. Our teacher thought it would be a good idea for the 12‐year‐olds in her class to be able to speak extemporaneously, and I was the first to be called upon. I headed to the front of the class with no small amount of trepidation, and things got worse when the topic she gave me was “boys.” I vividly remember panicking because as a shy young preteen girl I certainly had thoughts about boys, but none I wanted to share publicly. Besides, talking about the opposite sex was taboo for me since I was raised in a household where we weren't even allowed to watch Elvis Presley on TV. In front of the class I somehow was able to blurt out my first line: “I don't know why you've asked me to talk about boys since I come from a family of five girls.” But everything after that is a blur—I don't remember a word of it. I only remember the fear I felt in the spotlight.

I believe that episode shaped the trajectory of my career and life. Shortly after that awkward experience, I took up the violin and played on stage as often as I could to overcome my nerves. I went to a top music school, Indiana University, ...