With my 2010 Toastmasters International Speech Contest run over, I decided to put some thoughts down about what I have learned in this process.
First of all, if you ever find yourself thinking about competing, DO IT!!! I am more confident than I have ever been in my life! After speaking to a crowd of about 100 fellow Toastmasters at the District Conference this month, I now can go back to my club and present a speech with NO FEAR!!
I LOVED being up on that stage! And, I can't wait to do it again. Anyone wishing to receive a text copy of my contest speech, "Time Out!" please comment here with your email address.
Many people have asked what the biggest lesson I learned from this whole process. That's easy! I learned how to take a look inward without fear. In order to write an inspirational speech, you MUST look deep into your heart. Many of us don't like to do that... it's scary in there! But, believe me, you will find more passion, more tranquility, more peace, and more fulfillment if you just take that step: look at your life. Decide what is the one piece of advice you would give your child if you only had 5-7 minutes left to live.
Well, that's the begnning of this journey. I can't wait to see where it ends up!
~ Liza
"Take time out today so you won't be forced
to take time out tomorrow."
That's exactly my experience. Toastmasters is so much more than overcoming the fear of public speaking. Once you are comfortable with speaking, you get an opportunity to find out so much about yourself.
ReplyDeleteI have heard a number of people suggest that Toastmasters is a kind of therapy. I agree, therapy with introspection.
Thank you for sharing your experience. I hope others will see this and take the plunge.
Thank you John. As a matter of fact, I am preparing my Key Note Presentation on this very subject: If you're willing to change your attitude you can accomplish ANYTHING!!! And, the only way to do that is to look inward (scary thought). But, once you find your own message, the roads will fork in so many directions, you will have a hard time discovering which path to take. BUT, it'll be an adventure you'll NEVER forget!
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