I DON’T think I’m alone when I say that I can sometimes struggle when it comes to public speaking.
Many go through life avoiding the microphone, like myself, but sometimes you need to confront your fears.
That’s especially so if your job as a journalist requires you to speak with strangers almost every day.
As a close friend suggested, I warmed my vocal cords and faced public speaking head-on at the latest Scenic Rim Toastmasters meeting at Canungra Hall.
I’ve wanted to attend a Toastmasters meeting for some time now to work on my confidence.
Although I cannot do that in one meeting, I was determined to try my best and see where it goes.
In a room filled with other Scenic Rim Toastmasters members, I felt surrounded by community spirit and support.
I was introduced to everyone and received a warm welcome into the group.
My brother Korey was also interested in what Toastmasters had to offer so he came along for the night.
President Trish Scott gave us an overview and helped Korey and I to feel comfortable enough to participate.
An activity we were included in was Table Topics which required members to answer a question off the top of their head with a goal of talking about it for at least two minutes.
As a certified yapper, it wasn’t too difficult to reach two minutes, but I didn’t realise how nerve-racking it would be to answer a question without preparation.
It was interesting to see how important timing was as there was a lantern that indicated when people go over their given time – green was safe, yellow was amber, and red was overtime.
Talking to various members, it was great to hear their progress in such a short time.
Mei Deng only recently joined in December and feels like she is now a lot more confident speaking in public.
Joseph Cecil returned for the second time that night and he has already put his hand up to fill multiple club roles.
The night allowed me to appreciate the power of public speaking and the struggles that come with mastering it.
DETAILS:
Scenic Rim Toastmasters meet 7pm every first and third Thursday of each month at Canungra Hall.
To join contact Julia Schafer at 0410 585 425.
