Today I gave a 30 minute motivational talk to the members of the local T.O.P.S. group. T.O.P.S. stands for Take off Pounds Sensibly
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| On my way – with my props! |
One of the ladies at Gold’s Gym, Constance asked me about 6 weeks ago if I would come speak for 30 minutes to the TOPS group she attends. I had actually never heard of TOPS, but I said I would absolutely be happy to.
I began to research the group a little and found out that TOPS mission is “to help and support our members as they take off and keep off pounds sensibly.” Well I felt like that fell right in line with a big part of why I had been so successful these past ten months. I have had incredible support from first of all the trainer, and then my family and friends.
I wrote up my talk and practiced it. It was right at 30 minutes. I had a few people proof it (and thank you to those who did) and offer me feedback. I wasn’t nervous about speaking in front of others, I was more nervous wondering if they would like me. (Still working on that self-confidence piece apparently.)
They start their meeting with the pledge of allegiance. Then they gather in a circle and hold hands and recite the TOPS pledge (pictured below.) I was impressed already.
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| TOPS Pledge |
They handled some other business. I could tell all the ladies knew each other well and all were very supportive of one another. Then came my turn to speak. I had some serious moments where I definitely held their attention and I had some humorous moments, where they all were laughing. They really enjoyed the “seatbelt” story.