January 5, 2024
Facing your fears
Date
One minute I’m sitting quietly at my desk, struggling with the concept of trying to promote myself, the next I’m being invited to do a book signing at Waterstones, the Isle of Wight’s biggest bookshop, AND I’m told there’s a space for me at a Meet The Author event in Ryde next week.
Now I’m sitting at my desk, making lists of things I need to prepare/remember/check – should I take spare pens? do I need a banner? should I sign with my favourite fountain pen, or a biro? will anyone actually come? – and feeling quietly nervous.
I don’t know why I should be scared. I’m used to speaking in public: I do occasional appearances as Charles Dickens, and I’ve performed in loads of stage plays.
I suppose it’s that fear of the unknown that hits so many of us and holds us back.
Being repeatedly told ‘you’ll be fine – nothing to worry about’ doesn’t help at all, does it?
But never mind. I’m sure they’re right.
It’s all about facing your fears.
I’ll be fine. Nothing to worry about.
