Being a public member on the board requires learning new things. The public member's perception of himself or herself in relation to other members of the board is critical to success as a board member. A public member's contribution is significant and important. Those viewpoints are crucial and will affect deliberations of the board. If some of the ideas or suggestions are not acted upon, it does not mean that the public member is not a necessary part of functioning of the board.
Passivity breeds inactivity.
Rather than reacting to what occurs, be pro-active in thinking. Asking appropriate questions, requesting important information, and participating in board discussions will benefit the board member.