Words of Your Mouth Connect With Hearts and Ears?
By Rosalind Walker-Lewis
I walked up to the podium, looked out at the crowd of several thousand and could hear my heart beating! My throat and mouth were dry… I felt as if I were having an “out-of-body experience”. I took a deep breath and shared my information and gave the call to action! My assignment was completed. But, those who knew me, asked what was wrong. I was clearly not my usual self. This was not my finest moment! My reality … I had work to do!
How many of you are uncomfortable with or afraid of public speaking? There are many of us of all ages who get nervous or experience stronger reactions when even thinking about public speaking! Why would this be the case? The most common reasons include fear of judgment, lack of experience, perfectionism, negative past experiences, self-consciousness, and performance pressure. These factors can show up as anxiety, nervousness, and even phobias like glossophobia (the fear of public speaking). This can be overcome with commitment and a willingness to challenge yourself!
As an engineer by degree, I can easily share the details of a message – the facts. But, there is more to communication and connecting with the audience than just the details. It’s sharing your story and showing vulnerability that makes the difference. Being vulnerable can challenge some of us.
Within Prosperity Toastmasters Club #7961104, I have experienced a safe space encouraging me to step farther outside of my comfort zone and spread my communication range. The serious me is Engaging Humor as a learning path and I've found myself able to find laughter in life and incorporating personal experiences into my speeches. Those who know me have seen the difference over time! It continues to be a journey of growing to the next level. I’m preparing for my next audience of several thousand and I believe it is coming soon!
Since 1924, Toastmasters International has transformed nearly eight million lives through a simple, yet powerful, mission: empowering individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. For general information about Toastmasters, visit https://www.toastmasters.org/.
You have the options of a face-to-face club, hybrid (f2f and online) or online. As a member of Prosperity Toastmasters Club #7961104, I join from the comfort of my home via Zoom and experience a fun, safe and encouraging environment with mentors supporting my goals and development! To ‘find-a-club’, visit https://www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club.
Clubs have a wide range of skills where everyone learns and grows! Special training is also available for Youth (ages 14 to 18 years old) through the Youth Leadership Program (YLP). Take advantage of the opportunities to “Let the words of your mouth connect with hearts and ears!” Visit a Toastmasters Club available to you!