Carpe Diem

When I was in the second grade, I gave my first speech. I was brimming with pride as I stood in front of the whole assembly receiving applause. Unfortunately, somewhere between second grade and high school, I lost my confidence in public speaking and shied away from large gatherings.

 After high school, I was determined to become a more self-confident person and wanted to do so by getting into public speaking. I began by joining the college literary club ‘Echo’. I met many like-minded individuals there, who shared my beliefs and hobbies. Over a period of time my inhibitions began to ebb away. During my freshman year, debate try outs were announced. It was something I had never done before and it sounded exciting as well as challenging. I hesitated for a second. Questions of self-doubt crept into my mind. Why did I want to do this? What were the chances getting selected for the college team? Could I win? Most part of my life I had spent in contemplation and left many an opportunity slip by. This time I decided to grab it.

 I tried out for the debate team and after many screening sessions I got selected. Not only was I on the team, my partner and I went on to win an inter-collegiate debate. It had taken me twelve years to get back on stage, and it felt good. 

Whilst writing speeches, I discovered a part of me that loves to express through words. In the third year of college I was voted as the president of the very same literary club and editor of the college magazine. I compered various fests and events including the Amrita University – University of Sunny Buffalo, MITES initiative at the Leela Palace, Bangalore. I represented the college at seminars conducted by IBM and Infosys. I lead the team that hosted the literary fest. I continue my love for public speaking at work, by being a part of the TCS Toastmasters club.

 I transformed from shy to spirited. Had I not won a debate, I would have still patted myself on the back for trying out. That one bold step not only reiterated my confidence in myself, but also opened up new avenues in my life. The words ‘Carpe Diem’ excite me as it extols the wondrous possibilities out there and I want be a part of that wonder every day.