When I started Toastmasters over 11 years ago, it was to improve my communication skills, as well as start my motivational speaking business promoting patient advocacy. Many ‘things’ have intervened to not be doing business giving speeches, making connections, and reaching my goal of promoting the advocacy I believe in.

Toastmasters has provided me with three gifts to continue my journey toward my goal – focus, drive, and motivation.

Focus on every day knowing it is an opportunity to continue to improve – not only for communication and leadership. I have come a long way and will always find another experience to make myself better. Make it a challenge for yourself!

I always have the drive for more in Toastmasters. I love giving speeches, evaluating others, and participating in Table Topics. It is all about the meeting. That time is all about Toastmasters! Tell others and it will be contagious!

The third gift is the motivation to show others how much Toastmasters can be there for them. I signed up to improve myself, and then it became about others. Project management, time management, mentoring, networking, and so much more!

I think about Toastmasters every day because I want to be a better person. I want to give a better speech and be a better communicator no matter what I say. I started a saying in my home club – ‘We Are Every Day Conversation’. We should be better in EVERYTHING we say and Toastmasters helped me realize that. The leader might be in me too, just differently. All of you have skills too. Help others and they will come. Everyone will realize what we already know – how much personal and professional development can be fun and educational.

I am stepping down as your Newsletter Editor, but am continuing my Toastmasters journey. It has been a pleasure serving you and I want all of you to continue your journey for the goals when you became a member because Toastmasters, the District, and your fellow members are here for you. You are NEVER alone!

Monica Radke