February 3, 2010.

What is your goal this year in Toastmasters? Think about where you were when you joined Toastmasters and what else you want to achieve. Please don’t compare yourself with someone else. Instead, allow more advanced speakers to share the benefit of their experience to help you get where you want to go. Ask them questions, use their advice on successive speaking projects. Pay attention to their evaluations and use what you can.

Stuck in the first manual?  Make a commitment to give one speech every three to four weeks. Work at it one project at a time. One bite at a time is easier than thinking about 6 speeches or 7 and freezing.

Want to be a better leader? Take on more meeting roles that require organization and speaking. Volunteer for an executive role for the next season.

Want to achieve an advanced designation?  After the first manual, there are 15 advanced manuals that give you practice at giving a toast, a sales speech, television communication to humorous speaking.
Remember, the more advanced speakers in your club were once beginners. If they can do it, so can you!