In less than a week, I’ll be attending a local author event at the nearby public library. It’ll be my first in-person event, and though I’m very excited to be part of it, I’ll be honest: my nerves are setting in. I was invited to speak at the event about my experience in editing and the process of self-publishing, which is a huge honor, but no matter which way you slice it, my inner introvert is thrashing about, fighting this tooth and nail. I’ve fretted and fussed over what to bring, how many copies of each thing to print, and what I want to say. In all of it, I’ve come to one conclusion: if you want to make a career out of being an author, you will have to adapt to uncomfortable situations and push your fears aside—including those about public speaking.
For someone like me who prefers to sit at home and curl up with a good book, facing this reality isn’t easy. I’m fortunate to have my mom supporting me at the event, but in a sea of unfamiliar faces, I know my fear will still rear its ugly head. However, I’m prepared. I’ve worked hard to get where I am, and I’m not about to give up. I have a plan. I’m taking my time to get things right, and I’m ready to face my fears head on. No one promised the path to being an author would be an easy one, and for good reason. It’s not.
If you’re in the Lehigh Valley area and want to come hear me speak—or bumble my way through my speech—the event will be held at the Lower Macungie Library this Saturday (March 12) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. I’ll be chatting about my book series and my upcoming projects in addition to my editing and publishing experience. I’ll have some cool bookmarks with me and, of course, my creepy porcelain dolls.
Hope to see some of you there!