Growth does not always begin with motion. Sometimes it begins with a pause, a moment to reset the mind and rise with intention.
As we come to the end of December, we also reach an important milestone in our Toastmasters year six months in. This is a powerful moment to pause, reflect and gently reset before we step into the next stretch of the journey.
Before we rush ahead, we invite you to look back.
Reflect on Your Toastmasters Journey
Take a moment to reflect on your journey so far:
- What have you learned about yourself as a speaker or leader?
- Which moments stretched you and which ones energised you?
- What are you most proud of achieving in the last six months?
Now, set your intention for the rest of the year.
Think about the levels you’d like to complete, the Pathway you may want to embark on or the mentoring journey you’d like to explore as a mentor, a mentee, or both.
Toastmasters is a safe space to experiment, practise and grow, so this is the perfect time to set ambitious personal goals not aimed at perfection, but progress.
A Note for Club Officers
To our club officers, this is also a great time to revisit your Club Success Plan:
- How far have you come as a leadership team?
- What milestones have you achieved together?
- Which member successes are you celebrating as a club?
Pause to acknowledge both your efforts and your members’ progress so far.
Rest, Reset and Re-energise
This season is also an invitation to step out of “doing mode.”
Allow yourself time to switch off, rest and take care of your wellbeing. A rested mind creates space for clarity, creativity and better decision-making as you plan the next phase of your Toastmasters journey.
Looking Ahead: Root to Rise Conference
We’re excited to announce that the District 91 Conference 2026 themed Root To Rise will take place on the 2nd and 3rd May 2026 at the beautiful De Vere Latimer Estate, Chesham, HP5 1UG. Set amidst the tranquil Chiltern Hills and steeped in history, this inspiring venue provides the perfect backdrop for a weekend of learning, growth and connection. Ticket details will be released soon! Sharing a promo for you to get an initial preview of the venue.
Why “Root to Rise”?
Root to Rise captures the Toastmasters journey where meaningful growth begins with strong foundations and purposeful learning. Grounded in our core values of integrity, respect, service and excellence, we strengthen our communication, leadership and self-awareness through practice and feedback. As we rise, we grow in confidence, step into leadership, find our voice and expand our impact within our clubs, communities and beyond. This conference invites every Toastmaster to reflect, deepen their learning and rise to what’s next together, as one district.
Coming Up & Updates
We have some fantastic drop in sessions planned for January’26 including goal setting, marketing your club, open house, pathways, amongst others Please visit our District Calendar to view dates and register. The Contest Collective Drop-In Session is scheduled for 25 January at 7:00 PM GMT. It offers a great opportunity to learn, ask questions and prepare for upcoming contests.
Triple Crown & Distinguished Toastmaster Announcements
Congratulations to our December Triple Crown winner, Giota Koulouri from Legacy Speakers Brixton for the achievement.
Club Officer Training round 2 sessions have commenced. We have the last round of Corporate and District Club Officer training in January besides the ones offered by Area Directors. Please visit our District Calendar to view dates and register.
Quarterly Incentives Leaderboard
The leaderboard for this quarter will be updated by the end of December on our website
We’d Love Your Feedback
Your voice matters. Please take a moment to share your thoughts by completing our short survey: https://forms.gle/rwaNZQU4cocW5yaX8
As the year draws to a close, we wish you time to rest and recharge.
May the festive season bring you joy, clarity and renewed energy and may 2026 be filled with growth, courage and meaningful conversations. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a fantastic year ahead.
Warm wishes
Seema Menon, DTM
Last Updated on 20th December 2025 by Allen Paul