"I get knocked down, but I get up again..."
Would you enter a speech contest knowing there’s only a 0.0033% chance of winning?
Would you enter knowing there’s a 100% certainty you’ll become a better speaker?
When I ask people this question, they usually stop me at “speech contest” and say "No! Public Speaking is so stressful" or “No! I’d never win.” But here’s the thing—competition isn’t about winning, or even about the other competitors. It’s about you. It’s about pushing personal boundaries, growing, and feeling feelings whether that is exhilaration, trepidation or a mixture of both.
If winning were the only reason to compete, disappointment would be your lonely companion. Even the world’s greatest champions have lost more often than they’ve won. Competition is about stretching yourselves beyond what’s comfortable, to grow, and to discover what we’re truly capable of.
That’s why this quote by Bill Bachrach, CSP, CPAE has become my personal mantra since experiencing him in action at a recent National Speakers Association - Colorado meeting:
"“If comfort is your goal, success is not in your future.”" – Bill Bachrach, CSP, CPAE
Let that sink in for a moment. I'll wait...
Since 2021, I’ve competed in the Toastmasters International Speech Contest every year. And while I haven’t won the title, and likely never will, each year I walk away with something far more valuable: growth.
Competition has given me skills that only come from stepping onto the stage. They say competition brings out the best in us.
Here are my top three reasons why:
Tip #1 - Deadlines Drive Action
As a master procrastinator, having a deadline forces me to focus, create, practice, and deliver. On competition day—the ultimate deadline—I show up and perform as the best version of myself.
Tip #2 - Facing Fears
Public speaking is only scary because we believe it is. Every time I step on stage, that fear gets smaller. Sure, I still get nervous, but my nervousness has transformed from dread to anticipation.
Tip #3 - Steel Sharpens Steel
Competing against skilled and determined individuals elevates your own abilities. You push harder, learn more, and rise to challenges you didn’t know you could handle. As a lifelong athlete, I’ve learned that competition sharpens your focus, hones your skills, and makes future challenges less daunting. The stakes in competition are low compared to presenting at a QBR, delivering a sales pitch, or leading a boardroom meeting—where your livelihood depends on your performance.
Once you’ve experienced the thrill of competition, everything else feels a bit more calm, collected, and clear.
Well, here we go again: Toastmasters International Speech Contest 2025. GAME ON!
Shout out to Edija Saripova, CPA for sharing your incredible story of survival and triumph. And to the District 26 Toastmasters volunteers for putting on and running these contest.
And if you are wondering what Tubthumping means...
Historical Roots:
The word originated in the 17th century, referring to the act of delivering impassioned speeches or sermons from a tub or barrel in public spaces, often used by religious or political speakers.
Over time, it came to describe anyone making loud, enthusiastic, or fervent appeals to an audience, often with a persuasive or rebellious tone.
Modern Pop Culture:
Most people today associate “Tubthumping” with the 1997 song by Chumbawamba, famous for its anthemic chorus: “I get knocked down, but I get up again, you’re never gonna keep me down.”
The song embodies resilience, persistence, and defiance in the face of adversity, making it a fitting metaphor for overcoming challenges.
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