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Re:Ask HN: What's Something You Wished You Started Doing Ear... by zippyman55 on Friday January 16, 2026 @08:29PM (#46654422)
Public speaking (toastmasters). I waited five yrs. Social skills, management skills, and learning to tell. It’s being ready for the “hey, do you have time to speak with the vice president of the company”

Also better quality cooking. Healthy, save money.

More physical fitness.

Re:Ask HN: What's Something You Wished You Started Doing Ear... by pillefitz on Saturday January 17, 2026 @12:28AM (#46655557)
Anx particular resources you can recommend beyond toastmasters?
Re:Ask HN: What's Something You Wished You Started Doing Ear... by zippyman55 on Saturday January 17, 2026 @12:40AM (#46655622)
I thought toastmasters was great. But all the different clubs had different personalities. So, you have to find the right club. I was in it in the early 1990s and do not know how it’s evolved. What I liked about it was it had a ten speech structure and you could move on w life afterwards. Speaking in a contest beyond the club level could have you in front of 60 or more people. But something magical happens and your comfort level increases. I think there are other non toastmasters opportunities in volunteering but it’s nice to get the framework before you are thrust in front of large groups. But back to resources, I e seen some serious professional negotiation programs at my public library that really impressed me. Finally… and I’m spitballing here, I guess you could beat yourself up with speed dating events. lol.