So You Want to Be a Rabbit...

So You Want to Be a Rabbit
The Introvert's Guide to Passing as an Extrovert

This is by no means the be-all, end-all guide on this subject, since I'm still figuring this out as I go. For the be-all, end-all guide, you want to read "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking" by Susan Cain. However, until you get your hands on a copy of Cain's book, here is my list to tide you over.

1. Own It. It's okay to be introverted. We live in a world that praises the yellers. The squeaky wheel gets the oil, and such. And yes, it is important, especially for writers, to get out and market yourself. Networking and building an audience so when you get published, you have an audience of readers interested in you and therefore will be interested in your writing. Yes, it is important to get out there and make yourself public. But don't get overwhelmed, because it is okay to be introverted. That is who you are. Own It!

However, to survive in this world, you do have to at least pretend to be a little extroverted at times. So the following are tips to stepping outside of your comfort zone.

2. Start Slow. Don't commit yourself to too much at once. Remember that as an introvert, you need to have some alone time to recharge. Keep that in mind when embarking on this journey or stepping outside your comfort zone. For example, let's say have the opportunity to read at an open mic night or poetry reading, but don't feel ready to stand in front of people and share your own world. So here's what you do, you build up to it. Start with going to an open mic night or reading for writers. Get used to the atmosphere. Watch the performers. Listen to how they are reading. Practice reading out loud by yourself. Then for a friend/family member. Then maybe a small group of friends. Build up to it. So maybe the next time the opportunity arises, you will be a little less afraid to read in public. Don't let the fear of public speaking keep you from sharing your work. And you know what, if you mess up, if you stumble over a couple words, it's not the end of the world. I promise.

3. Reward Yourself. When you have stepped out of your comfort zone (participated in a reading or by starting a blog that you plan to maintain on a weekly basis or even going to your best friend's baby shower) do something that you enjoy. Something that brings you peace. Go home and listen to your favorite song. Watch a movie. Write. Eat ice cream. For example, after I finish this blog, I'm going to watch Batman Returns. So maybe that sounds like a sucky reward to you. That's fine. Go find your "Batman" and use it as a reward for stepping outside of your comfort zone. The bigger the step, the bigger the reward.