So, confession time: I absolutely love Toastmasters. I mean, really. The mission, the camaraderie, the thrill of standing up in front of people and delivering something that isn't a rambling monologue about why pineapple is the misunderstood hero of pizza toppings (seriously, give it a chance).
But—and here’s the kicker—it wasn’t until recently that I started to reflect on some of the challenges that come with it. And, well, those very challenges are the main reason I eventually stopped showing up. Yeah, plot twist! The irony is not lost on me.
And, oh boy, when you map out those challenges on paper, it’s hilarious—and slightly terrifying—how clear the pattern becomes. It's like watching reruns of old speeches and seeing the same plot twist over and over. Was I the only one missing it the first time?
Let’s break this down: Time management, structure, and impulsivity are classic ADHD speed bumps, but the real star of this chaos show is preparation. Or, in my case, the lack thereof. You know that feeling when you're supposed to prep for a speech, but your brain is like, "Hey, wouldn't it be awesome to deep-dive into the history of bubble wrap instead?" Yeah, me too.
“Preparation for speeches? It’s like asking a cat to enjoy bath time. It happens, but not without drama. My ADHD noodle prefers the freestyle jazz version—just enough structure to almost pull it off, but with a side of 'Oops, did I forget the main point?'”
The Preparation Pickle
Here’s the deal. Preparation for speeches? It’s like asking a cat to enjoy bath time. It happens, but not without drama. You see, I’m supposed to neatly organize my thoughts, practice, and deliver value in my message. Instead, my ADHD noodle prefers the freestyle jazz version—just enough structure to almost pull it off but with a side of "Oops, did I forget the main point?"
And don’t get me wrong—when I’m in that flow state, talking to groups is like second nature. I can riff on any topic, and sometimes people even think I planned it that way. (Plot twist: I didn't.) But then there are those moments when I’m talking, and mid-sentence I realize, “Wait… was I supposed to prepare for this?”
Funny thing is, I don’t think anyone ever noticed. Either that, or they’re just being kind. Probably both.
Is It Overcomable?
Absolutely. Is Toastmasters the right place to smooth out the rough edges? 100%, yes. It’s like gym training for your noodle, except instead of lifting weights, you’re lifting ideas and trying to keep them in some kind of organized, non-chaotic order. Easier said than done.
Trick of the Trade
So, I’m learning a few tricks to help my noodle stay on track. One thing I’m going to work on (besides, you know, actual preparation) is setting micro-goals within my speeches—and not just speeches. This goes for videos, interviews, and anything else where I’m expected to make sense. If I can map out one main point per section, it’s like giving my brain little signposts to follow. Less chance of wandering into the weeds, more chance of sticking to the topic. Hopefully.
I’ll post updates on how that goes... off and on, because, let’s be real, consistency is a work in progress too. But hey, knowing is the first step, right? Lol.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I’ve got a video interview to prep about why I started the Cosmic Journey project—or maybe I’ll just take a quick look at the fascinating history of bubble wrap first. It’s all relevant research, I swear.
Oh, and who knows, I might just continue my Toastmasters journey in the future. Maybe next time, they’ll either see I’ve leveled up… or they’ll get a surprise TED Talk about bubble wrap. Either way, it’s gonna be interesting!
Everyone’s ADHD journey is different, but let me just say—I don’t see or like the word disorder. It’s just a different way of thinking. Once you figure out how your noodle noodles, it turns into a superpower. Okay, maybe I’m overselling it a bit, but hey, I believe it!
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