Speak without Fear #3
The thought of standing before an audience and delivering a speech once sent shivers down my spine. I was an introvert, my mind often racing with self-doubt and fear of judgement. My inabilities to communicate effectively or express my thoughts clearly were a persistent hurdle in my personal and professional growth. The mere idea of public speaking felt insurmountable, a glaring reminder of my inadequacies that chipped away at my self-esteem and confidence.
My journey to overcoming these challenges began with a decision to confront my fears. First, I started with Selling Skills training to small groups and teaching at Kathmandu University. Second, I stumbled upon Toastmasters when a friend asked me to attend a Toastmasters meeting. I now fondly recall my embarrassment as I attempted a table topic in a session that encourages impromptu speaking. My thoughts were jumbled up as I tried to stitch together a few sentences and made 17 hesitations under two minutes. My initial response was panic, but the supportive smiles in the room encouraged me. That moment marked a breakthrough in overcoming my fear of impromptu speaking.
Initially, I had walked into the room with trepidation, unsure of what to expect. To my surprise, I found a welcoming community that thrived on mutual encouragement and constructive feedback. Every session was an opportunity to challenge my inhibitions, one step at a time. Toastmasters provided a structured yet supportive environment where I could practice and grow. The platform helped me refine my speaking skills through impromptu speeches, prepared presentations and evaluations.
Over time, I saw a version of myself that could articulate thoughts with clarity and passion, someone who could engage and inspire an audience. Toastmasters didn’t just improve my speaking skills; it redefined my confidence and self-worth. I still remember a speech I gave on “The Power of Gratitude” received such positive feedback that it became a catalyst for my belief in my ability to connect with an audience.
Toastmasters – A Global Movement with Local Impact
Toastmasters International began in 1924 as a small club in California, USA founded by Dr. Ralph C. Smedley. The idea was simple yet revolutionary: create a space where individuals could practice public speaking and leadership skills in a supportive environment. Over the years, Toastmasters evolved into a global organisation with footprints in 150 countries, empowering millions to overcome their fears and achieve their potential.
Central to the Toastmasters experience is the Pathways education programme, a robust curriculum designed to cater to diverse needs and goals. It has identified over 300 skills that can be improved. Whether you aim to hone communication skills, develop leadership capabilities or build confidence, Pathways offers tailored modules to guide your growth. I chose the “Dynamic Leadership” path, which helped me not only in public speaking but also in managing teams effectively at work.
In Nepal, the first club ‘Kathmandu Toastmasters Club’ was chartered in 1991, marking the beginning of a movement that continues to inspire individuals across the country. I became a charter member of the 2nd club, ‘Everest Toastmasters Club’, that started in 2004. Toastmasters has seen remarkable growth since Nepal joined District 41 in 2017. Today, Nepal boasts a vibrant Toastmasters community with 60+ clubs in major cities, catering to professionals, students and anyone eager to improve their public speaking and leadership skills.
The pandemic further underscored the adaptability of Toastmasters. Virtual meetings became the norm, breaking geographical barriers and allowing members to connect with global audiences. I had the privilege of attending many virtual sessions hosted by different clubs across the world, and being part of District 41 leadership spanning Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal. Onsite regional and international training broadened my perspective and allowed me to learn from seasoned speakers worldwide.
The Benefits of Toastmasters
Whether you are someone who struggles to speak up in meetings or an accomplished speaker aiming to refine your craft, Toastmasters programmes offer immense value. Here’s how:
1. Building Confidence
For those plagued by self-doubt, Toastmasters provides a safe space to experiment and grow. The act of standing before a supportive audience and receiving constructive feedback gradually erodes fear and builds confidence. It’s not just about speaking; it’s about finding your voice and owning it. One member I met shared how Toastmasters helped her overcome her fear of job interviews, eventually landing her dream role.
2. Structured Learning
The Pathways programme ensures that every member’s journey is structured and goal-oriented. From foundational skills to advanced techniques, the curriculum is designed to cater to individual aspirations. Members can choose paths like Presentation Mastery, Engaging Humour, or Persuasive Influence to align with their personal or professional goals. For instance, a member through the “Innovative Planning” path enabled him to develop strategic thinking and apply it to my entrepreneurial ventures.
3. Practical Experience
Toastmasters emphasises learning by doing. Each meeting involves prepared speeches, impromptu speaking (Table Topics), and evaluations. This practical approach ensures that members are constantly applying and refining their skills. I vividly remember one instance where a seasoned evaluator’s feedback on the absence of entertaining and engaging content helped me transform a good speech into a great one.
4. Networking and Community
One of the most rewarding aspects of Toastmasters is the sense of community. Members come from diverse backgrounds, bringing unique perspectives and experiences. This diversity enriches the learning experience and fosters meaningful connections. I’ve met professionals from various industries, and these interactions have often led to collaborations outside Toastmasters.
5. Leadership Opportunities
Toastmasters is as much about leadership as it is about communication. From club roles to district-level responsibilities, members have ample opportunities to develop and demonstrate leadership skills. For example, serving as a club president helped me improve my organisational skills and navigate challenges with a team-oriented mindset.
Beyond Toastmasters, similar programmes and workshops can also provide valuable avenues for growth. Whether it’s joining a local public speaking club, attending a communication workshop, or participating in leadership training, the key is to find a platform that resonates with your goals and commit to the journey. A friend of mine who attended a storytelling workshop shared how it enriched her presentations at work, making her ideas more compelling and relatable.
The Courage to Speak and the Power to Inspire
Public speaking is more than a skill; it’s a gateway to personal and professional transformation. My journey with Toastmasters is a testament to this truth. From an introvert riddled with self-doubt to a confident speaker ready to face any audience, the growth I’ve experienced is profound.
Toastmasters and similar programmes serve as catalysts, empowering individuals to overcome their fears, discover their potential, and inspire others. Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or looking to elevate your abilities, these platforms provide the tools, support and opportunities you need to succeed.
So, take that first step. Embrace the discomfort, trust the process, and watch yourself grow. The courage to speak is within you, and with the right guidance, you can transform not only your own life but also those of the people you inspire.
Suman Shakya is an entrepreneur, certified trainer, and small business consultant. He can be reached for an executive mentoring session at suman@tangentwaves.com
