In the training, there were three distinct groups: the clerical staff, junior officers, and senior officers. During public discussions, all three groups were present. Anybody could contribute to the discussions. I did not want to leave this opportunity. And much before I got on the stage, I kept practicing the lines I would say. Maybe four lines or a maximum of five? Even after such rigorous practice of an extempore speech, I struggled on the stage. I did manage to convey what I wanted to say. But it was awkward. I realized then how difficult it is to stand on a stage and speak. There were no negative impressions against me by the faculty, as I learned later. The idea was to encourage people to come out of the fear factor. I had at least tried.

This made me go into another not-so-disastrous foray into public speaking. My confidence boosted, I started asking questions in class, raising doubts, and even better, answering questions. The stranger anxiety that bothered me from a young age seemed to have mellowed down by these small steps towards public presence. I started talking to everyone, including the lady participants, and the discussions were natural, frank, and from the heart. A nonsensical impediment conquered. In fact, one of the junior lady officers was my regular table tennis doubles partner, and she rose to become a General Manager. I was lucky to get the friendship/acquaintance of many across the groups and even with most of the faculty members.

I believe these are the small steps that, in due course, allow you to shed the coat of shyness, fear, or anxiety around you. I have to be thankful to those faculty members who instilled the confidence, gave the opportunity, and encouraged me. Thanks too to the other participants for tolerating my gibberish.

And thus, I was rocketed into the dicey world of public speaking.

Continued in 237. Not So Loudspeaker - Part 3