Toastmasters Table Topics #5 - If I had to write a book on your life, What would I call it and Why?

I have written about the significance of public speaking in the past. I started this writing series on table topics some months back. Before I dive into today's topic, below is a quick introduction.

What are Table Topics?

In Toastmasters, "Table Topics" is a segment where participants deliver an impromptu speech. The speech should not be less than half a minute or more than two and a half minutes. Table Topics aims to encourage speakers to seize opportunities with promptness. Speakers learn to provide coherent and concise content without prior preparation. It's a valuable exercise for developing spontaneous speaking skills. Something very useful in formal presentations and everyday conversations.

The topic given to the contestants was:

If I had to write a book on your life, What would I call it and Why?

I found the topic a bit tricky. It came up in the meeting yesterday. On the day of the competition, the topics given are easier. My previous article was on a topic given during the table topic competition. If interested, below is the link.

My Ritual

I follow a ritual for every speech. The routine helps me to compose myself. It gives me a sense of satisfaction that things are in control.

A confident stride to the podium is the easiest way to kickstart the ritual. The next step would be to thank the table topic master and give a firm handshake. Repeating the question will buy me some thinking time.

I ensure that the podium is not standing in the way between me and the audience. It also gives me an excellent opportunity to take a deep breath and shrug off any anxiety. I prefer not to look at my feet while thinking, and my hands should not be in my pocket. It demonstrates an anxious personality.

Speech Delivery

My speech goes as follows:

The title of my book will be 3 M's (The alphabet M). They are the three pillars of my life thus far and represent personal growth. They inspire me to grow and act for positive change in our society.

The first M is (M)ental health. Mental hygiene is of utmost importance in today's age of stress and anxiety. It deserves recognition like any other physical ailment. I publish articles promoting good mental health practices, hoping they help the stigmatized.

The second M is one of the famous ways to manage our mental health. It's (M)editation. Meditation, a practice rooted in ancient wisdom, has been a guiding light in my journey. Through mindfulness techniques like Vipassanā, I have discovered the power of introspection. It brings inner peace and strength, even amid life's storms.

The third and the last M could be a little controversial for some. It's talking about Men's rights. Men's rights hold substance among discussions on equality and justice. Women's empowerment is the need of the hour, but we can't override men's struggles. Society can overlook their challenges, but that does not mean we must also ignore them.

The reason behind choosing this title is that it defines me. As mentioned earlier, I write articles on Mental Health and Meditation. I also volunteer as a first-level counselor for an Indian NGO. My responsibility is to uplift male victims of domestic violence. I wish I had more time to elaborate but until I do. Thank you.

Conclusion

The content could be deep for some. Hence it deserves a slow pace.

Timing is of the essence during table topic competition. Anything under 30 minutes or over two minutes and thirty seconds is disqualification. The preparation for a table topic competition happens during every club meeting. The contestant should practice stage presence during regular club meetings. They should know the place where the timers are.

I am writing these stories on table topics to create a collection for competitions. It is tough to think on the spot. A compilation like this sounds like an excellent way to practice. Hence, this is my way of visualizing robust and impactful content. Recording these speeches is a part of my routine. It gives me invaluable input to work and improve. THANKS FOR READING THIS PIECE. Positive feedback will help growth.

See below a link of other article from this series on table topics:

Thanks Tarun