what to expect?

CAlfonso · Post by **CAlfonso** » Fri Jul 03, 2009 5:03 am

Here's a little exercise for some of you who care to participate.

I've started this session yesterday. It's been 3 full weeks since I've started the program and I have changed significantly. At this point, my self confidence and esteem has increased. I feel like I can take on almost anything. I stress almost because today, I was thinking about joining a public speaking program. My fear of socializing and embarrassing myself in front of others started to creep up. Thankfully, my skills from session 3 kicked in and I allowed to feel the anxiety and soothed myself with positive self talk.

I went online and checked out a local Toastmasters club (which is practically down the street and around the corner). There's a weekly meeting every Thurs. I am commited to be guest and take a look. One expectation that I have right now is that I'll be ok, no matter the circumstance.

Would any of you like to list some positive expectations that I may get out of this? I feel like I'm ready for this and that it would be a great opportunity to put my new skills to the test.

I was a very shy shy person and hated to socialize, even amongst my group of friends. I've self diagnosed myself w/ a stuttering/mumbling problem and hated the thought of looking like stumbling idiot when trying to speak to others. This doesn't affect me so much anymore and I thank God and this program for that.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Sun Jul 05, 2009 8:21 am

That's great! I was with a Toastmasters for a year though I didn't get up and do any long speeches. My experience with Toastmasters was really positive, I hope yours will be too!
Tamara

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Mon Jul 06, 2009 4:44 pm

You will meet new friends, find freedom in speaking, and be more effective and less effected. smile
I have found that it feels free to talk to others. I would be afraid of what they thought of me. I have noticed that people are more concerned about themselves, not me! so I need not worry what they think of me.
Good luck to you. enjoy!

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Jul 09, 2009 2:00 pm

Well unfortunately, I decided not to come in today as a guest. I had a little too much to drink last night and I paid the price for it today.
One accomplisment that I'd like to mention was that I stayed calm and positive through it all. I understood the reprecussions (sp?) of goin out and drinking up, and I simply floated today. I actually had a pretty good day today, matter of fact. Anyhow, there will be other meetings, and I am still curious to see what Toastmasters has to offer.

Thank you Tamara Tracy and MPeach for your thoughts. Take care you 2!