Mentoring

This past weekend I was hanging out with my niece. Her and I don't get to spend a ton of time together but I always enjoy the time when we do. I always try to make the time productive and try not to play video games or watch television with her. So I decided to bake some cookies with her. I had her do everything that she was big enough to do. Measure the sugar, pour it into the bowl, mix it with the butter, etc. I usually try to let her figure things out on her own unless she asks for help or I see her struggle with a task.

I think this is the true meaning of mentor-ship. A mentor is not there to hold your hand through every task, they are there to ask questions of or to motivate us when we are having a problem motivating ourselves.

While we were making the cookies, I was cracking some eggs and my niece turned to me and said "Why are you doing it like that?" to which I said "What other way is there to crack an egg". She then proceeded to show me a better way to crack an egg.

The point I am making is that sometimes, as a mentor, we can learn something too. So I encourage you to get a mentor if you don't already have one and if you are feeling up to it, start mentoring someone else. It doesn't have to be a long term thing, it can just be helping a new member through their first time as time keeper.

I know that you will find it as rewarding and beneficial as I have.

Our first Competent Communicator of the year

When you first join toastmasters the idea of doing one speech can be a daunting one, let alone 10. However, after completing each speech the next one seems more attainable. Mitch has inspired us to be better people and to not be "angry Calgarians" in his 10th speech of his Competent Communicator manual. It was a rousing speech that changed some of my thoughts and behaviors when it comes to being angry or upset. Very good job Mitch and I can't wait to see your next speech!