Shannon Glasgow, ACB ALB
“For better speaking, for better listening, for better thinking, we learn by doing”
When I was a member of the Riyadh Toastmasters Club, we began each meeting with the same inspirational mantra: “For better speaking, for better listening, for better thinking, we learn by doing,” followed by a clapping of hands. With these words and this energy, members emphasized that their communication and leadership skills development required active commitment and positive reinforcement.
How often has someone seeking to learn more about Toastmasters asked you about the “class”, “teachers” and “exams” in Toastmasters clubs? The response I typically give often results in some awkward moments of silence because it doesn’t mesh with the conditioned mindset that some people have about education, learning and personal development. My response goes something like this: In Toastmasters, we’re all students and we’re all teachers. We all have strengths that can see us reach new heights as well as help pull up fellow club members so that they, too, can reach their highest potential. We all also have areas for improvement that we are made aware of through friendly, constructive feedback so that we, ourselves, can reach out highest potential.
The only exams we have are the ones we set for ourselves to measure our growth in being able to communicate and lead more effectively and more impact fully. The key to passing these self-exams is easy: to learn by doing.
Shannon Glasgow is a Senior Instructor and College of Arts and Sciences Coordinator for the Al Ain Campus of Abu Dhabi University. He is interested in Alternative medicine, Alternative housing, traveling and history. 5