08/05/2026
One of the most common pieces of public speaking advice is:
"Just imagine the audience in their underwear."
It may be the most famous tip ever given, but it's also one of the least helpful.
It assumes the audience is something to fear. It suggests that confidence comes from making the people listening to you seem smaller or more vulnerable.
The reality is very different.
Most audiences want you to succeed. They want to hear your story. They want to learn something. They're not waiting for you to fail.
Instead of focusing on the one person with a serious expression, look for the people who are smiling, nodding, or making eye contact. Connect with them. Their encouragement will help you settle into your message and remind you that you're among people who are rooting for you.
One of the greatest privileges I've had over the past decade as a Toastmasters member is watching people walk through the door terrified of speaking in front of others. Many arrived convinced they could never become confident speakers.
Then something remarkable happened.
Week after week, speech after speech, evaluation after evaluation, they improved. Over time, those same individuals became engaging, confident communicators capable of inspiring audiences of any size.
There was no magic trick.
There was no shortcut.
There was simply consistent practice in a supportive environment where everyone wanted them to succeed.
That's what Toastmasters does. It doesn't just help you become a better speaker. It helps you become a more confident version of yourself.
If you've ever wanted to improve your communication, leadership, or confidence, come visit a Toastmasters club. You might be surprised by what you're capable of becoming.
If you've ever wanted to improve your communication, leadership, or confidence, come visit us!
📍 Triple C Toastmasters
📅 Every Wednesday
🕖 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
📍 Lewis Centre, Craft Room A, Courtenay, BC
Guests are always welcome. We'd love to meet you!
