Raise your hand if you’ve ever avoided doing something that makes you even the slightest bit uncomfortable. If I could really see you I’m sure I would see a lot of hands! It’s human nature to seek situations, environments and things that make us feel good, calm, wanted, loved…comfortable. When I think about comfort, I think about family, friends, a big fluffy blanket, yoga pants and grilled cheese and tomato soup. When I think about being uncomfortable, I think about shoes that don’t fit right, hotel pillows, olives in my food, and talking about myself with strangers. What about you?
Center of Attention? No thanks!
As I write this, I am in the midst of week three of my book’s release. Have I mentioned how scary this process is? At least a few times, right? There are a few different reasons why I say that but the most basic reality is that I’m uncomfortable being the center of attention. That may come as a shock to some of you who know me but it really is true. Some people love it but I prefer to fly just below the radar.
Breaking News
When I accidentally announced that I was writing a book on my personal Facebook page, I pretty much had a mini meltdown. My inner circle had to remind me that I did actually need to let people know if I hoped anybody would buy and read the book. I was instantly uncomfortable with the attention and to be honest that hasn’t changed much over the last few weeks. I’m just forcing myself to put myself out there because yes, I do want you all to buy and read the book. I also want you to like it.
Baby Steps
The other night, I had the opportunity to do my first book signing and promotion. Some friends of mine were having a holiday open house for their Vintage Home Furnishings business and they graciously invited me to sell and promote my book. There were a lot of people I knew there so it was the perfect setting for my first time. However, I was also forced to promote myself to others that I didn’t know. I think I did okay. It was a beautiful night, I sold some books and got to talk about my writing journey with a new audience. After an hour or so, and a glass or two of wine, it became easier and I found that it felt great to share Julian and Alexa with new people.
I do realize that not all environments are going to be as welcoming and comfortable. I am looking into other venues to promote my book and I know I won’t always be surrounded by a warm fire and wonderful friends like I was at the holiday open house. I know me and I know that it will take a long time before I really am comfortable talking about myself. However, I am happy to talk about Stay all day long so if you want to know what is going on with Julian and Alexa, just ask.
To those of you who have been so supportive and positive about this new path I am on, thank you. You have helped to make me feel more at ease in this new role as “author”. It’s getting easier and easier each day. Pretty soon, this whole book promotion thing is going to be old hat and feel as comfortable as a pair of cozy socks and a warm fire.
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