Getting Connected

My answer to discussion question #3:  After reading Chapter 4 I have been forced to rethink my speech topic so that y'all might listen to me (no I am not from the south, I just thought "you all" sounded to formal :) ).  I found this chapter to be very helpful with ideas to choose a subject that would be interesting to all of us.  I also found my self envious of the speaking to entertain highlights mentioned.  Oh...If I could tell a good joke or perform a little magic trick how much more interesting my speech would be.  I really enjoy listening to a good speaker that not only informs and entertains but has me leaving with the desire to change something no matter how small.  However, having said that, I still cannot find the extrovert in me that wants to have everyone in the room pay attention to what I am saying.  I have no magical abilities but If I really get courageous maybe I'll try throwing in a joke. Anyone know a joke, suitable for all, that won't make me blush?

Apprehensive....I'll say!

What makes me apprehensive about public speaking? Chapter 2 pretty much sums it up when it says that I am "genetically prone" to speech anxiety.  I do not like to be the focus of attention.  I am definitely an observer.  I was very shy all through school and often people felt I was standoffish when really I just didn't feel comfortable trying to make small talk with unfamiliar people so I spoke very little, unless I knew you.  However, other than that, I really don't identify with the other traits referred to such as low self-esteem, guilt and anxiety (other than when I have to stand in front of a group of people that I don't know and give a speech).  I am a good student in that I enjoy preparing the speech and practicing (by myself).  Hopefully, focusing my nervousness in a positive way, like relabeling will help me to become a better speaker.

Introductions

Hi Everyone,

I'm looking forward to this class with all of you.  I have a lot to learn about public speaking (first and foremost being comfortable doing it).  I am married with three children, all of them teenagers!  I have been employed for the last 20+ years as an accounting manager/controller and recently lost my job due to the banks basically shutting down the company I worked for by refusing to lend.  Now that I am back in the job market my experience seems to mean nothing without a degree to back it up (I have an AA) and that is what brings me back to college. I am at Sierra College for, hopefully, this one semester to fill in a few classes that Sacramento State would like me to have before I can finish my degree in accounting.  Happy blogging!