When I joined Farnham Speakers back in 2012 I always declined to enter ay of the contests as that was just one step too far for my fragile level of confidence! I remember watching in envy as self-assured candidates delivered their speeches with passion and style and thought I could never do that – even though I wished I could be like them.
As I settled into the various roles of the club I found I most enjoyed mentoring new members and encouraging them to sign up for speaking slots at the meetings to complete their speech projects. I did feel guilty, though, when contest time came around and I hid from the organisers! Then the ideal excuse appeared – I had taken on district leadership roles as Area Director, for two years, and Division Director for one – and I discovered that district leaders are not allowed to enter contests. Phew! That was a relief, a valid excuse now and no need to hide from the organiser!!
Then, in 2018 I had no District role to prevent me from entering a contest. A friend gently reminded me and asked what was stopping me from entering! Well, I knew exactly what was stopping me – it was fear and self-doubt. Oh yes, I can put on a brave face, but deep down was tormented by the worry of failing, forgetting my words, making a fool of myself – the usual demons that prevent us from stepping onto the stage.
But deep down, I knew I had to try. As a mentor and leader in my club, my role was to encourage others to challenge themselves and to step beyond their comfort zones. How could I continue to do that if I wasn’t willing to do it myself? So, in a rash moment – I put my hand up to enter.
Of course, the next challenge was – what was I going to talk about? Well, the most obvious answer is: Personal Stories. I wrote the speech about my exact experiences of avoiding speech contests, of mentoring club members and finally deciding that being a role model to our members was of greater value to them than staying in my comfort zone was to me.
The club contest was less intimidating than I imagined as I stood in front of familiar faces. I did get through to the Area contest – a little more nerve-wracking but I told myself that I had done it once, and I could do it again. And this is where a good story turns sour – I would have come second – if it weren’t for the fact that I ran over time – by four seconds and was disqualified!! Not such a great role model, then! Although I now use it as a good example to members of the importance of staying well within time.
I was really pleased that I had entered the contest – and, honestly, I was very proud of myself, knowing the resistance I had felt to doing so for such a long time. It was a real confidence booster and I feel I can now encourage others from a place of experience.
Would I enter again – yes? And I have entered the Topics and Evaluation contests. The Humorous Speech contest? Well, that’s a whole different ball game – maybe – one day.
If you’re considering entering the International Speech Contest it may feel daunting but just do it. The fear won’t go away, but each step you take will make you stronger and improve your confidence.
Janet Alkema
Farnham Speakers
