Earlier this week I felt myself standing taller; heard myself saying thank-you for people’s kind words. Why? This week I gave a talk at my local toastmasters group on Mindfulness. I had prepared well and felt really ready. I spoke clearly and received great feedback. I came home feeling uplifted, and carrying an ‘I can do it’ attitude.
Sure I am a generally positive person and tend to have an ‘I can do it’ attitude generally, yet I still felt the boost from doing something that I enjoyed, talking about a topic that is close to my heart – Mindfulness – and getting such a great response from it. I also invested a lot of myself in this presentation, in the words as well as the preparation and practice. This boost will carry me to my next presentation where: I will feel free to open myself up even more; to share more of myself with the world; and know that the preparation I put in will be worthwhile.
Feedback is important
There is a part of me that feels that I shouldn’t need the praise or feedback from others. Yet we are wired for feedback. Feedback helps us to grow, we learn what works and doesn’t work, what areas we can strengthen. I also believe that each of us not only wants to improve as a person but to be in a position to make a difference to the lives of others. This is something we need feedback for, and you and I can really only know our efforts and making a positive difference through feedback.
Make your own opportunities to shine
You need to put yourself ‘out-there’, agree, or even offer to give that presentation on your passion, take on a mentor role, practice to perform well in your chosen sport, hobby or skill. Make opportunities for yourself to shine.
For those if you looking for a chance to shine for the first time, find a place that you feel safe first. Set yourself up to succeed. Maybe don’t aim for sharing your soccer training skills with the local netball team. My recent presentation was to my toastmasters group, a group whom I know is supportive of me, yet who will also be truthful and honest with me. Even in this instance where I was well propped up I was still given some ideas for improvement.
I truly believe that each person has a special gift to share and there are enough opportunities for each person to find a reason and a chance to shine. Share your gift with the world and shine.
#Shine
#Your Time To Shine
#Toastmasters
#Mindfulness
#Practice
#Presentation
#Opportunities
#Self Improvement
#Personal Growth
#Special Gift
#Feedback