Page 17 - 2025-01 Voices
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Experience is already there - At one point in   was writing a new speech, learning Canva,
                my career I was asked to write a grant. I have  becoming an officer, or writing for Voices!
                written many articles but never a grant. I     (you can too, see more details in this issue),
                researched how to write a grant and found      Toastmasters provides many opportunities
                success because I built on my experience of    that encourages learning new skills and
                telling a compelling story that resulted in    gaining experience.
                securing the grant.
                                                               Expanding the comfort zone - The more
                Don’t compare yourself to others - Everyone    I competed in contests, created ads, or
                has strengths and talents that come naturally  planned meetings, the more my comfort
                to them. Some are great at crunching           zone expanded. Because repetition helped
                numbers, writing reports, or finding           me to become more confident and more
                volunteers. Comparing yourself to others       open to trying something new.
                who have different strengths can create
                frustration.                                   Finding support through the process - The
                                                               support of Toastmasters creates a safe space
                It’s okay to ask for help - If you don’t want   for improvement. For example, practicing
                to “bother” anyone by asking for help,         a presentation, such as a contest speech,
                reconsider. Maybe they love producing          and getting immediate feedback as to what
                spreadsheets and are willing to help but       resonates with the audience has helped
                never get the opportunity because they         shape my delivery.
                weren’t asked. People will often help if given
                the right opportunity.                         Enjoying the journey - Learning how to use
                                                               my skills and mentoring others has been
                If you are considering expanding your          especially fun when I embraced the journey.
                Toastmaster’s journey, there are many          Throughout the process, trusting my gut has
                benefits as well. When I think about how       been the basis for finding and sustaining
                leadership has impacted me, the following      success!
                examples come to mind:
                Exploring new possibilities - Whether it



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