My first time leading a Toastmasters Meeting

Today, was a really good day.   It was the first time that I got to run the weekly session of my Toastmasters group.   It was a really great experience.   Leading meetings isn't a completely new experience for me, but it was definitely with a different purpose.   Before, it was about how to fix a problem, collect some data, or generate some sort of consensus with other engineers or managers.    Today, was a pure joy.   It was just to keep a meeting on track,  introduce speakers, and just have a good time.  I almost felt like Chuck Barris, but I was dealing with people who had talent.     

It was really quite an enjoyable experience, and I look forward to doing it again.    

So, with that said.  Let me talk the time to plug Toastmasters.   It is a really great venue to work and develop leadership, public speaking, and listening skills.   God knows, we need more people in this world that know how to truly listen.

Well, let me get back to watching my Detroit Tigers...who are getting worked as I type.

 

Improvement comes after pain, unfortunately.

I find it hard to believe that I am actually glad that this year has been tough for me.     Getting knocked down was a really good thing, it caused me to REALLY evaluate myself and where I currently was.   And, I wasn't really happy with what I say.   The best part has been making changes for the better, and not just accepting where I was.    But, based on my experience in manufacturing, things never get fixed/resolved until the pain level of doing nothing becomes to much.  You see it everywhere, business, government, squeaky hinge, piles of dirty laundry...you get the idea.

My pain has been both professional and personal, and the changes I have been making have been dealing with both.   It might have been better to deal with my issues before but I am not sure the lessons would have truly stuck.   We humans have to feel that pain... take the hand on the stove..ouch... but you learn and remember.

So, I am glad that I am making the changes.  I feel like I have made just a minimal amount of progress but that is good because it is just a start.  The other thing has been getting feedback from new friends, old friends, and family that there is a new side of me.  And, the feedback is good.   All I hope to do is continue my growth, and pass on what I can to others who want it.

I guess that is it.   Just wanted to get a thought down.   Later.

Gotta stay positive

It never ceases to surprise me how my mindset effects my day.   When I feel good, I have a good day and vice-versa.  Now, that in no way means it is easy to have a positive outlook...it is hard, but you just have to try.    Look to friends, family, or even that new acquaintance you meet at some networking event.  

For me, I have tried to do something that is new for me.  I feel that it has been really helpful and educational for me.   I have started to read about meditation, and started yoga.   And, I have also started to try and put my thoughts to virtual paper.   

Well, I think that is what I have for today.