One of the hardest things for shy artists to do is to put themselves out there, to actually go out into the world and interact. I wrestle with this every time I am getting ready for a show.
I am doing a show tomorrow. Getting stuff packed up and the car loaded was easy. (Actually, I loaded the car in under 1/2 hour!) The hard part is dealing with the anticipation of having to interact with customers. Will I say the right things? Will I behave the right way? If I say "hello" will they run away from me? Did I forget to put on deodorant?
I am doing a show tomorrow. Getting stuff packed up and the car loaded was easy. (Actually, I loaded the car in under 1/2 hour!) The hard part is dealing with the anticipation of having to interact with customers. Will I say the right things? Will I behave the right way? If I say "hello" will they run away from me? Did I forget to put on deodorant?
All of these questions, and more, start running around in my head as I am getting ready. So, how do I calm these fears? First of all, a few deep breaths help. Then I focus on the task at hand. Rather than thinking about the bad things that might happen, I look only at the present moment and concentrate on getting that task done.
Getting to sleep the night before a show is always a problem as well. I have found that going to sleep while listening to a guided imagery CD is extremely helpful.
Once I get to the show, the first thing I do is to say hello to my booth neighbors. Although, it is usually prefaced by the question, "What booth number are you?" or "Am I in the right spot?" At least try to get your day off to a positive start. Saying hello to your booth neighbors is a very non-threatening method. Besides, it's always a good idea to make friends with your booth neighbors.
So, start with your fellow artists, and then be bold and say hello to your customers. And, as always, smile and have fun!
Getting to sleep the night before a show is always a problem as well. I have found that going to sleep while listening to a guided imagery CD is extremely helpful.
Once I get to the show, the first thing I do is to say hello to my booth neighbors. Although, it is usually prefaced by the question, "What booth number are you?" or "Am I in the right spot?" At least try to get your day off to a positive start. Saying hello to your booth neighbors is a very non-threatening method. Besides, it's always a good idea to make friends with your booth neighbors.
So, start with your fellow artists, and then be bold and say hello to your customers. And, as always, smile and have fun!
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