To look smart, presentable and to be able to speak good English, are the key things I am trying to achieve for myself. The reason I want to master public speaking is because I know it is a skill that will help me move ahead in my job and life.
I recall the first time I stepped into the meeting room. It was a shock! Really frightening for me as the majority of members was Indians or Sikhs. I felt insecure! I had put myself in a situation, not knowing what to do next. I tried planning my escape, my heart was pounding fast! I regretted coming!
However, I thought deeply about it. This was no way to behave. My inner voice, from deep inside my soul, told me to stay and watch. At the end of the meeting, I felt this would be the best place for me to overcome my greatest weakness - poor spoken English.
I delivered my “ice-breaker” on 29th July 2008. I could not sleep for a couple of nights before, thinking about it; just because I had to deliver a speech in English. It is not a joke! Finally, I overcame my fear, but it was not an easy task for me.
In fact, at the beginning, I did not really enjoy the meetings, especially if I had promised to give a speech on a particular evening. My whole day would be filled with anxiety and nervousness. Believe me; no one enjoys that type of feeling.
Today, I would like to thank the club members. The first person is Lucky, who was kind enough to take me to shop around and to explore other clubs meetings. It was an eye-opener for me to observe how people delivered their speeches. One thing is for sure, they were passionate about this long journey. From their facial expressions one could see this. I could tell, that time had been essential for them to reach the stage they have reached today; confident about delivering each speech.
During the whole journey, I believe, the most important thing is, to overcome the obstacles which prevent you from improving... It requires a high level of both, self- discipline and self esteem.
I took three years to complete the competent communicator manual; but, I don’t believe it will take me another three years to finish the competent leadership manual. I need to speedy up! No more can I use the excuse of being too busy or too tired to avoid going to a meeting. That will not help me get anywhere!
I would like to thank all the members for their support; especially Lucky, Ranjit, Sham Sunder and Lourdes, They are all great guides for a junior member like me to grow. Further, I really enjoy their speeches. They are very entertaining and informative.
I do hope we can get more members, bring in new blood and have fun at each meeting. It is a place to learn and your experience depends on how you view it, honestly. It is a place where you can build your confidence to stand in front of a crowd and deliver... a speech!
Now, I look forward to each meeting, to meet fellow members, share experiences and fellowship.
They all will be great nights. Again, I thank all the members.
I feel very proud to be a member of The Bangsar Toastmasters Club, which has been here for more than 10 years. I made the right choice of a club for my personal needs and growth.
Lim Mooi Kheng, CC (1st August, 2011)
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