Impromptu Speeches are indeed challenging - but they are definitely rewarding.
During my first meetings as a new member of Toastmasters International, there's nothing I despise more than being called to be the speaker for a Table Topics prompt. For context, Table Topics is a portion in a Toastmasters meeting wherein participants are usually called randomly to give a 2-minute speech about a prompt. While speaking for two minutes may seem simple, the factor that makes this whole experience daunting is its improvisational nature. Participants are presented with a topic on the spot, giving them only seconds to construct their speech and present them within the allowed time frame. As much as Table Topics is usually the bane of Toastmasters, it possesses the beauty within impromptu speeches.
A Challenge Outside Your Comfort Zone
It has always been established that speaking spontaneously is challenging since it strips us from the comfort of prepared speeches. In an impromptu setting, we are forced to pinpoint our main idea, structure our thoughts, and deliver our piece all within seconds or minutes. These factors make Table Topics a frightening experience we would normally avoid. However, these "scary" factors are what make it essential in the first place. Exposing ourselves to stimulating exercises such as Table Topics would push us towards growth since we are cornered into using only our intellect in answering. Of course, this growth may not manifest itself after just one speech. It is a continuous and consistent process that you have to take.
Formulating your Thesis Statement
Since speaking on the spot only gives you seconds to prepare, you must practice formulating your thesis statement or your main point which would become the anchor of your whole speech. Providing a vague main idea would create a speech that may seem too generic or weak. It would be also hard to build on that story since its main topic was not clearly defined. Exposing yourself to impromptu speeches can help in the process of determining the story you'd like to highlight, making it easier to process how you'll start your speech and how you'll end it.
Harnessing your Confidence
After being called in a Table Topics session, you might feel unsatisfied with how you handled the activity or how you formulated your answer. This is completely normal. Looking back, my first Table Topics answers weren't my best either. Most of the time, it took me way too long to form my answer. I sometimes even start my answer without having a proper answer at all due to the deafening silence of dead air. However, one meeting after the other, I noticed that I wasn't as nervous as I usually was. Although the tension is still present, it became something I am used to and at the same time, became something I enjoy having. Delivering impromptu speeches has always been hard, but being proud of ourselves after giving our best to deliver one will always be special.
The Table Topics session in a Toastmasters meeting only prepares us for the future impromptu speeches we must give. As we strive for greatness, let us remember that greatness does not happen overnight.
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