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Dear
Last year, I found myself working on a critical project with a teammate who seemed almost impossible to collaborate with. While I was fully invested in ensuring the project’s success, my teammate’s lack of cooperation and communication made the situation appear very discouraging. At first, I felt frustrated and disheartened, even questioning whether we would be able to meet the deadline. However, in that moment, I realized something important—the value of resilience and the power of staying focused on the purpose behind the work.
The outcome we were striving for was not just about completing the task; it was about the bigger picture—the impact it would have on the product, our company, and ultimately, our own growth. That purpose became my anchor.
Instead of becoming overwhelmed by my teammate’s behavior, I chose to be resilient. Resilience does not mean avoiding frustration or pretending that everything is easy. It means acknowledging the difficulties, staying adaptable, and continuing to move forward despite challenges.
I found new ways to communicate, adjusted my approach, and learned to navigate obstacles with patience and persistence. I focused on what I could control: my actions, my attitude, and my commitment to the final goal. We successfully completed the project, and in the end, the sense of accomplishment was not just from achieving the goal, but from the resilience we demonstrated in the face of adversity.
A similar experience has been part of my Toastmasters journey. There are times when I am unable to dedicate time to writing my speech or attend club meetings regularly. However, I remind myself that I joined Toastmasters to become a better leader, and this is an ongoing journey. I have learned a great deal so far, but there is still much more to learn. Each time things do not go as planned, I return to my goals and realign my focus.
When the road becomes difficult, remember your purpose—the reason you started in the first place, your “why”. Let that purpose drive you through the obstacles. The journey may not always be smooth, but with focus, determination, and unwavering commitment to your goal, you can achieve what you set out to do.
As we approach this Toastmasters renewal season, I encourage you to remember your purpose. Why did you join your club? What was your goal? Are you on track to achieve it? Perhaps things have not gone according to plan—this is precisely the moment to hold onto your purpose and keep pushing forward. Renew your commitment to your growth and do not miss the renewal deadline. It is that persistence that ultimately leads to success.
Renew and refresh your commitment today.
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