Page 11 - 2019 March Voices

TRANSCENDING YOUR COMFORT ZONE

March Mindfulness

John Rodke, DTM - District Director

Hearts pumping, butterflies in stomachs want to help you realize it. As you are promoted,

fluttering, palms sweating, and the palpable you are entrusted with greater opportunities
energy of excitement sparking through the air— and responsibilities to serve and grow in a safe
this is just the audience’s perspective. It is contest environment with caring support. What a cool
season and we get the chance to experience our place to grow and thrive.

members creativity at its finest! To keep thriving, we have a few items to tick
I want to thank all of you for participating in off our lists. Dues are due for the next 6 months,
the contest experience. As contestants, judges, we need to elect officers for next year, and finish
timers, ballot counters, contest masters, and our year strong by getting our clubs credit for the

audiences, we make the magic happen. I invite efforts our members have been putting in. I’m
you to be mindful of these moments that we confident your club can achieve Distinguished
witness. Creating the spaces for our members or beyond. Will you help it get there?
to thrive takes work, but is excellent practice for I look forward to experiencing those

our big events in life. meaningful and mindful moments at our
For example, I’m in the process of helping contests and conference this spring with you.
plan a wedding for a friend. Forty-ish attendees, Speak, listen, and lead on!
a venue needed, food, supplies, and key support

staff—sounds a lot like the necessary ingredients If your circle
for a contest.
Being mindful of how similar our Toastmaster doesn’t challenge you
opportunities are to other aspects of life is a

motivating factor in stretching our limits into our to grow beyond your
growth zones. I guarantee every time you take comfort zone, then
on a new role you will grow in this organization
and help others grow in the process. you are definitely in

What am I getting at? If you would like to
apply to be an Area Director, Club President, the wrong circle
or any other role, you can be promoted in our
organization, just ask! You have the potential, we —Edmond Mbiaka

VOICES! | MARCH 2019 11