I have a confession to make. While I love writing books, I live in terror of them being released. I struggle to promote my own work and if I ever meet a fan, I usually close my eyes and try and conjure up a portal to a different world. Anywhere would do. For the longest time (aka 19 books) I thought it was just me being overly dramatic or lazy, but I’ve come to realize that it’s a form of social anxiety. As in, it’s a real thing.
The idea that my experiences actually have a name and that other people struggle with them too, has been a huge eye opener, and it’s what has prompted me to make some changes. The first of which is to look at how I celebrate my books. In the past I’ve usually minimized my achievements (while hiding behind a potted plant in case anyone sees me), but I’m determined to step out from behind the anxiety and be proud of this story.
So, here I am! This is my twentieth book release and to celebrate I will actively telling people about it, as well as buying myself a nice bottle of something cold and bubbly to toast the occasion. And while I’m sure I’ll still worry about whether people like it or not (and think I’m a fraud for even calling myself a writer) I’m not going to let that stop me from enjoying the moment, or from trying to connect with people
As part of this new (and less anxious) me, I’d like to celebrate by giving away a copy of Once in a Blue Moon. All you have to do is tell me if you’ve ever suffered from anxiety and what you’ve done to overcome it.
have not
If I have a big work function where I have to be “on” all evening then I try to have the next morning off. I know I need time to recharge since I am not naturally an extrovert.
Chris – I’m the same. I definitely need a lot of downtime when I have to do a lot of people stuff during the day!!!
I definitely have anxiety about public-facing situations–performing in the dance studio’s spring show, public speaking… all those are nerve wracking! Lots and lots of practice helps a bit, reminders that mistakes are not devastating, and deep breathing 😉
I love that you remind yourself that mistakes are not devastating! Might have to add that to my arsenal!!!!
Hugs, Amanda! Hope it helps you too! I’m sure it doesn’t work for everyone, but I try to think, hey, if this awful worst-case scenario happens, I know I would be kind if if happened to someone else, so others would likely extend the same grace, AND the world won’t end 😉 And well, I’ve managed to avoid falling off stage so far, but I HAVE dropped a prop and walked straight into a stage light trying to get off stage, and well, the world didn’t end 😉