2023 Toastmasters World Champion of Public Speaking: Jocelyn Tyson

Summary

In the summer of 2021, Jocelyn Tyson faced a milestone birthday and chose to tackle a triathlon despite her fears. Her journey was marked by internal struggles between self-doubt and determination. After eight months of training, she faced the daunting race day, where she initially hesitated but ultimately overcame her fears and completed the swim, bike, and run. Tyson's story is a testament to the power of inner strength and the choice between being one's own worst critic or biggest cheerleader.

Takeaways

• 🎉 The speaker, Jocelyn Tyson, chose to celebrate a milestone birthday by attempting a triathlon, showcasing the power of setting ambitious personal goals.
• 🏊‍♀️ Despite initial hesitations and self-doubt, Jocelyn's decision to listen to her 'inner go-getter' highlights the importance of overcoming internal critics.
• 🚴‍♀️ The speaker's preparation for the triathlon, including jogging, borrowing a bike, and taking swim lessons, emphasizes the value of dedicated training and preparation.
• 🌊 Jocelyn's struggle with the open water swim during the race illustrates the challenge of applying skills in unfamiliar environments.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The support from her family and the audience at the race underscores the role of external encouragement in overcoming fears and obstacles.
• 🔄 The moment of panic and the decision to flip onto her back and start the backstroke represent a turning point, demonstrating the ability to adapt in the face of adversity.
• 🚦 The lifeguard's advice to consider quitting and Jocelyn's decision to continue highlight the struggle between self-doubt and perseverance.
• 🚴‍♀️ The physical and mental exhaustion Jocelyn experienced during the bike and run portions of the triathlon reflect the grueling nature of endurance events.
• 🏁 The speaker's completion of the triathlon, despite the challenges, serves as a testament to the power of determination and the ability to push through discomfort.
• 💪 The final message encourages the audience to find their 'inner go-getter' and to believe in their capabilities, as encapsulated by the quote from Henry Ford.

Q & A

What significant event was Jocelyn Tyson preparing for during the summer of 2021?

Jocelyn Tyson was preparing for a triathlon, which was a milestone birthday celebration for her.

What are the three disciplines involved in a triathlon?

The three disciplines involved in a triathlon are swimming, biking, and running.

What was Jocelyn's initial reaction to the idea of participating in a triathlon?

Jocelyn's initial reaction was a mix of excitement and doubt, with her 'inner go-getter' eager to participate and her 'inner critic' expressing concerns about her abilities in swimming, biking, and running.

How did Jocelyn Tyson overcome her fear of swimming in open water during the race?

Jocelyn overcame her fear by flipping onto her back and starting the backstroke, despite the lack of grace and beauty in her swimming.

What mistake did Jocelyn make during the swim portion of the triathlon?

Jocelyn swam in the wrong direction, going 50 meters off course before being corrected by a lifeguard.

What advice did the lifeguard give Jocelyn during the swim?

The lifeguard advised Jocelyn to consider quitting the swim portion of the race, acknowledging that she could still finish the bike and run parts.

How did Jocelyn Tyson feel after completing the swim portion of the triathlon?

Jocelyn felt exhausted, with her legs feeling like lead and her lungs on fire, but she was determined to continue.

What internal struggle did Jocelyn Tyson face during the run portion of the triathlon?

Jocelyn faced an internal struggle between her 'inner critic' who questioned why she was still participating, and her 'inner go-getter' who encouraged her to finish what she started.

What quote from Henry Ford did Jocelyn Tyson reference in her speech?

Jocelyn Tyson referenced Henry Ford's quote, 'Whether you think you can or you think you can't. You're right.'

What was the main message Jocelyn Tyson wanted to convey to the audience?

The main message was to look deep within oneself to find the 'inner go-getter' and to let it push you further, as it can help overcome challenges and achieve goals.

How did Jocelyn Tyson's experience in the triathlon relate to other life decisions and challenges?

Jocelyn Tyson's experience in the triathlon symbolized the internal conflict and decision-making process that can occur in various life situations, such as starting a new job, undergoing medical treatment, or making significant life changes.