So, what is a public speaking idiot, anyway?

A public speaking idiot is a person who is suffering from delusions about what public speaking is, or what it can do for them.

Here's a 10-question quiz to tell if you're a public speaking idiot or not - each "yes" answer earns you 1 point:

1. Did you quit your job or profession to pursue a lucrative career in speaking?

2. Do you see public speaking as a way to motivate others?

3. Are you speaking on a topic that you are passionate about?

4. Have you made sure to follow the advice to "write a book on your topic" and spent tons of time and money on "your baby"?

5. Are you a presenter or speaker who belongs to one of the well- known "speakers' clubs or associations"?

6. Are you hoping to get booked for speaking gigs by event organizers and meeting planners?

7. Do you belong to a speaker's bureau?

8. Are you looking forward to glamorous speaking engagements around the country or around the world?

9. Did you get into public speaking because you think it's going to be "easy money"?

10 Do you have a goal of sharing the stage with other famous keynote speakers?

BONUS QUESTION:

11. Do you dream of being on "Oprah" someday to promote yourself and/or your book?

Now, total up your points, here's how to score them:

0 points:
Sorry, you are NOT a public speaking idiot. Try harder.

1-3 Points:
Sorry, you are also not a public speaking idiot, but with some effort, you could be if you really put your nose to the grindstone.

4-7 Points:
You are very close to being a public speaking idiot - with just a tiny bit of effort you could become a public speaking idiot.

7-10 Points:
Congratulations! You are a Public Speaking Idiot!

11 Points:
You are not a public speaking idiot - you are completely delusional.

Here's how to stop being a public speaking idiot starting right now: