Stay Connected

This past weekend I attended a Toastmaster’s International District 40 Fall Recognition Ceremony. Motivational speaker, Karim Ellis, addressed the audience. I had watched some of his YouTube videos, but it was great seeing him live. Yes, that is me – those attending the event dressed up for a costume contest.

I wanted to share some of the notes that I took from Mr. Ellis’s speech. He was an engaging speaker who used board games to illustrate important lessons.

With the game Uno, he asked us whether we were utilizing our God’s gifts and talents. It is important that we do four things:

• Identify our unique gifts and talents
• Master our gifts and talents
• Place it in the right environment
• Control it

With the game Connect Four – he told us that success is 50% of what you know and 50% of who knows you, therefore you need to:

• Be Strategic
• Connect with people outside of your comfort zone
• Know who are your connectors and blockers

With the game Battleship, he reminded us that our thoughts are our reality – be positive with our thoughts.

With the game Perfection:

Stop procrastinating – get your greatness out before your time runs out.

He then brought out a wad of $5 bills – only a few people ran to the front of the room initially to get the money, which they got. By the time those sitting realized it was real money, it was too late – When opportunity presents itself, you have to be ready to move.

He ended his speech with two words – DREAM BIG.

I never get bored listening to a dynamic speaker. There will always be some nuggets of information that will be helpful in your journey through life.

I did not win the costume contest but I took a chance and entered the Tall Tale contest. I tied for first place.