Imagine a world without communication—a silent void where

our thoughts, emotions, and dreams remained trapped within us,

unable to connect us with the rest of humanity. Can you imagine
living in that kind of world?

Friends, fellow Toastmasters, guests, thankfully, we don't

inhabit such a world. Instead, we are blessed with the gift of
communication. So can we talk, hey I wanna know your name…

This project required me to take a test to identify my primary

communication style and talk about how the style has impacted my
life. There are 4 styles as indicated in the project: direct (results-
oriented, focused); initiating (sociable, persuasive); supportive
(patient, cooperative); and analytical (precise, disciplined)

My highest score of 6 showed that I have a supportive

communication style. However, I could not discount the one point
difference with the initiating communication style. So I believe I am
a mixture of both.

My first style is the supportive style. This characterized by its calm,

steady, and approachable nature. The person with this style is
known for his sincere and gentle approach, which sets others at
ease in their presence. This type of communicator would rather
receive praise privately and In times of conflict, this individual may
step forward to mediate, showcasing their desire for harmonious
relationships and their commitment to maintaining peace. One of
the defining traits of the supportive communicator is their active
listening skills.

On the other hand, the Initiating communication style is often

associated with being a conversation starter, a bold initiator of
dialogue. The initiating communicator possesses a proactive and
enthusiastic approach to communication. They are not afraid to
take the lead and initiate conversations, making them an active
participant in discussions and group activities. Due to the
energetic and expressive nature of this communicator, others may
feel that this person talk more than listen.
While the supportive and initiating styles may seem like having
contrasting qualities, the first one having a steady and calm
demeanor, and has the quality of being an active listener, while the
other being spontaneous and fun-loving and probably talks to much
rather than listening, I believe they coexist harmoniously within me.

One of the most fascinating outcomes of this synergy is my ability

to maintain relationships.

I believe my initiating style has helped me build my connection of

people. I relish in starting discussions about diverse topics,
breaking the ice, and setting the stage for connections to flourish.
In short, tabian! Hahah. I remember being asked to transfer seats
in High School because I was always talking with my seatmate. I am
turning 40 soon and i wanted to have a party but i realized i have
too many friends it would be a headache to decide who not to
invite..so mag travel nalang ngali ko!

But it's the supportive side of me that takes these relationships to a

deeper level. I've realized that when I actively listen and show
genuine care for my others' thoughts and feelings, our bonds grow
stronger.I believe my supporting style also turned me into a pillar of
support for both family and friends. I've found myself on the
receiving end of heartfelt confessions and the go-to person when
problems arise. I specifically remember my then 4th year HS brother
coming home from his prom coz his date, the girl he had been
having a crush on for some time, left him in the party to party with
her friends in another venue. His little heart was crushed and he
asked his dearest ate to buy a case of red horse beer (he was still
below 18 and could not buy his own) and he asked me to drink with
him and he shared his heartache. This did not only happen once as
when he got his then girlfriend, now wife, pregnant when he was
18, I was the one he told first and brought me along when he had to
tell my parents about it, showing my mediating nature.

These communication styles have also played a pivotal role in my

leadership path within Toastmasters. When I assumed the role of
President, I used my initiating style to rally the members, to deliver
speeches, take on roles and help me achieve the club’s goals. But
my supportive style which encouraged them to be better more than
just helping me achieve the club goals. I believe this created an
environment of open dialogue and collaboration, leading to a more
vibrant and engaged club. I used the same when I transitioned to
the role of Area Governor.

Furthermore, my communication styles have transformed me into a

mentor for new Toastmasters and emerging leaders. My initiating
style has helped me connect with those who are just beginning their
journey, right Sar? And my supportive nature has allowed me to
help train friends who were brave to join contests even when i
sucked at the category, right nin and pri?

My journey has taught me that initiating and supporting are not

opposing forces, but rather the yin and yang of my communication
palette. They've allowed me to navigate the intricacies of social
dynamics, building friendships that withstand the test of time,
offering solace to those in need, and propelling me forward as a
leader within Toastmasters.

So, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on your own

communication style and understand how it has impacted your life.
With this understanding, we also learn to embrace the diversity
among us and learn from one another. When we understand and
appreciate that we have different styles, we can forge stronger
connections, foster collaboration, and create environments where
every voice is heard and valued.

◦ Imagine a world without communication—a silent void where

our thoughts, emotions, and dreams remained trapped within us,
unable to connect us with the rest of humanity. Can you imagine
living in that kind of world?

Good thing we do not live in that world, so can we talk for a

minute? Hey I wanna know your name.