Snakes, getting stuck in a small space, and public speaking. These are common fears and ones which affect me. As Winston Churchill said, “Fear is a reaction. Courage is a decision”. Step by step, I am choosing courage to face my fears and overcome them. Firstly Snakes. Five years ago my child wanted a reptile … Read more…
On Saturday 26 June 2021 we had our annual open house extravaganza ‘Speech on the Beach’ on Worthing seafront. What a day it was! After days of wind and rain our prayers were answered. The rain stopped and the wind dropped. What a venue with the sea and pier framing us! Our members were joined … Read more…
You know that wonderful feeling of coming home? That special sanctuary where you feel accepted, supported and uplifted? For me, that’s Worthing Speakers. Sometimes life can feel like an uphill struggle can’t it? Particularly after the year we have all had. Who wouldn’t want to find a place called home? 6 months ago, I read … Read more…
Worthing Speakers publishes a regular newsletter. In the most recent one, newsletter editor, Lucy, interviewed our latest member, Lynette Haley. How did you first hear about Toastmasters, and what made you come along to a meeting as a guest? I read a blog written by Amy on Twitter. She talked about how she had found … Read more…
The skills I have gained from Worthing Speakers since we went into lockdown have been extremely useful in my professional life. I have now given over 50 online presentations at work since March 2020. These are some of the points that I have learnt: It requires different skills Presenting on Zoom and other online meeting … Read more…
Language is our primary form of communication and although we also communicate through body language, gestures and eye contact I always see these as additions to emphasise the spoken word. In public speaking I use all these forms of communication and because of this I have the ability to get my point over effectively and … Read more…
When I first looked to join to Toastmasters it was to bring about more confidence to my speaking .But then I noticed 3 unusual benefits to boot. 1. Friendships. I suddenly got a mix of friends from all age groups, experiences and cultures. They all had different unique stories that have made me laugh,understand and … Read more…
As someone who has given or produced hundreds of training webinars over the past ten years, I feel I have a few tips to share with Toastmasters. While presenting online is nothing like standing in front of an audience, the preparation and presentation of slides is key to a successful talk – whichever medium you … Read more…
As I look back at what I have done over my 71 years on this planet, I believe that it is helping other people that has motivated me most. I am certain that it was my experience in Guernsey that enabled me to start a speakers’ club. In Guernsey, where I lived in the 90s, … Read more…
Several members of Worthing Speakers have taken the opportunity of having a mentor. The aim, particularly for new members, is to help them get going in the club. However, mentoring is available to every member. Mentors provide support, guidance, friendship and encouragement to members seeking to progress. Both parties benefit from this experience: mentees are … Read more…