Why Compete?

by Joe Grondin, DTM

A new Toastmaster year is upon us and many are asking the question, do I compete or not? If you were to ask Joey Grondin for his advice he would, without hesitation, say, "GO FOR IT!" Joey just returned from the 2011 World Championships in Las Vegas where he placed 3rd in his semi-final but that's not the reason he competes. He competes because of the education, because of the challenge, and because it is so much "DARN" fun.

There is no quicker education in improving your communication skills then when you compete. You have the opportunity to be coached by mentors that will help you grow as a speaker. This feedback has been instrumental to not only becoming a better communicator but also a better person. In a very short period of time mentors help facilitate your passion through your voice. Joey is fortunate to have three very capable, extremely knowledgeable mentors, Shirley Kelly (DTM), Loraine Cassie (DTM), and Louise Fyffe (DTM). The education doesn't stop there. Fellow Toastmasters from all over District 45 have help mold Joey into the speaker that he is today with their countless evaluations on his contest speeches.

Speech contests help stretch you above and beyond your comfort zone. Through the many evaluations and coaching sessions, you will be challenged to hone your skills as a speaker. Sure, it will be uncomfortable at first but words cannot express the pure joy you will feel when your comfort zone expands and the light bulb suddenly turns on with the words, "I GET IT!" Joey will admit that it can be scary at first, but he also believes that fear can paralyze or realize your potential. By breaking through you fear you will realize your potential.

Last but not least, speech contests are FUN, FUN, and MORE FUN! Whether you win or lose is irrelevant. The thrill that you will receive by just getting up there and using your voice to communicate what's inside of you will be a feeling you will carry with you for a very long time. The FUN is not whether you win a trophy or not. The FUN is what you have gain in the process by putting your very best effort forward and to know that your very best can help change lives.

Speech contests are around the corner. If you are on the fence about whether to compete or not, "GO FOR IT!" You will receive a valuable education, expand your comfort zone, and above everything else you will have FUN.

About the Author

Joey Grondin (ATM Gold, ALB) is a 2010 World Championship of Public Speaking Finalist, Author, and Professional Speaker.