Overcoming Challenges - Tanisha Arouza Pai, TAPMI

Public speaking was one of my worst nightmares, as is for most people who are shy. I always got along well only with people that I had known for a few months but found it very hard to interact or keep a conversation going, with someone new. I eventually became very reserved and stopped going out to social gathering unless I was going with someone I knew. It was probably because I lacked self-confidence and was always conscious about how others would perceive my thoughts. 

It reached a point where it started affecting my social life in a huge way. I took it upon myself to change that. I initially confided in my parents and being as supportive as they are, told me that they would help in whatever way they can. I heard of a Toastmasters’ Club around my house and enrolled for it. The first day I went there, as nervous as ever, was quite amazing. I met other people who had the same problem of public speaking. We eventually got to talking and I realized it was okay to just speak out as long as it isn’t offensive to anyone. A few more sessions with them and my confidence level increased substantially. 

I started going out to social gatherings more often and interacted with a lot of people, some who I met for the first time. I realized how amazing and different people can be. I wasn’t as shy anymore and had an amazing level of confidence. I performed as a master of ceremonies at several functions and was complimented on how well I could speak. For someone who had a fear of speaking in public, hearing that truly felt like an achievement. 

Though we may not realize it, these obstacles or challenges that we face in our life inspire us to strive for heights that we may not have attempted to reach otherwise.