I’m in strong agreement with you, especially when it comes to improving public speaking. I have been a Toastmaster since 1997, and it has greatly helped me with my speaking and with boosting confidence.

I used to be nervous in front of a group and I also used to try to memorize my speeches. The most significant nugget of knowledge for me came when I realized that if I speak about topics I care about and know about, I never have to memorize anything and I never have to be nervous again.

Anyone reading this, check out toastmasters.org to find a club near you. There are thousands of them!