51吃瓜 -Toastmasters in the Golden Years

Entering your golden years doesn’t mean slowing down or fading into the background. In fact, it’s the perfect time to embrace challenges, discover passions, and continue growing. In 2022, I retired from my career as an aircraft electrician for the U.S. military, and began my new chapter as an author, speaker, and public speaking and confidence coach. I joined Toastmasters in 2015, and even after 10 years, my Toastmasters family continues inspiring me to pursue opportunities I never could have imagined. As people reach retirement age and beyond, the reasons for joining a community like Toastmasters may evolve, but the benefits remain clear.

1

Ease Into Transition

Many over 55 find themselves at a crossroads, ending one chapter of their lives and starting a new one. My fellow Toastmasters gave me the encouragement I needed to stay outside of my comfort zone as I reimagined my life in a new career.

After writing a self-help book for adults, I embarked on a new journey as a children’s book author. As the third-place winner in the District Tall Tales Speech Contest, I received positive feedback on my physical humor and character voices. Someone suggested I use these skills and the concepts in my adult self-help book to speak to children. Toastmasters gave me the confidence to embrace this chapter and share my message with a new audience.

2

Stimulate Your Mind

As we age, keeping our minds sharp is essential. Engaging in activities that challenge our brains, such as learning a new skill or honing existing ones, can help maintain cognitive function. Toastmasters provides a structured yet flexible platform to continuously learn and grow.

The opportunity to participate in Table Topics has been one of my favorite aspects of Toastmasters. It allows me to practice thinking quickly and speaking clearly. This has been especially helpful during author interviews when promoting my books, and as a podcast host actively listening to my guests to ask the perfect question to make them sparkle.

3

Expand Your Social Circles

Social isolation can be a concern as people grow older. Toastmasters clubs offer a welcoming community where members can meet regularly, share experiences, and build friendships. This sense of camaraderie helps reduce feelings of loneliness and fosters a sense of belonging. Additionally, the diverse mix of members, ranging from young professionals to retirees, provides networking opportunities and the chance to mentor or be mentored by others.

Toastmasters has been a way to connect with people who inspire and motivate me. The friendships I’ve built and the support I’ve received have been invaluable. Whether through in-person meetings or online interactions, the sense of community keeps me coming back.

4

Find New Interests

Toastmasters’ focus on self-improvement and goal-setting is incredibly motivating and provides a sense of purpose and direction. My clubs have shown me the value of stepping outside my comfort zone. Whether it’s taking on club officer roles, competing in speech contests, or embracing the challenges of District leadership, I’ve pushed myself in ways I never imagined.

For example, I always wanted to be an event planner, so I challenged myself to apply to be the conference chair for my District’s Annual Conference. I had so much fun planning this event with my fellow Toastmasters. Each challenge has become a stepping stone to personal growth and a profound sense of accomplishment.

5

Have Some Fun

Toastmasters is just plain fun! As a member of five clubs, a club coach, and a new club mentor, I have found something unique in each club. Each meeting and event is different, offering new challenges and experiences. There’s joy in seeing your own progress, as well as watching fellow members achieve their goals. The sense of accomplishment and fulfillment you get from mastering a new skill, receiving a standing ovation, or helping someone else succeed is truly rewarding.

Toastmasters has been a transformative experience, playing a pivotal role in helping me transition from my first career to my new life. It’s not just about speaking or leading—it’s about building confidence, embracing change, and finding joy in continuous growth. For anyone over 55 looking for a way to stay active, engaged, and inspired, Toastmasters is the perfect place to start.