Writing, Illustrating & Publishing > Pro Talk
Avoiding public speaking
anonymous:
I knew this day would come soon. I just got asked to do a reading at an event.
I have a tremendous fear of public speaking. Back in the day, I used to take public speaking classes and I went to a psychologist to try to get over it. I did do some public speaking at my old job because it was required of me. I always did fine. And I know that if I did the reading, I would be fine.
However, it would involve weeks of agonizing anxiety and sleepless nights, and I just don't know if it's worth it. I'm at an age now where I've learned to accept my limitations. I just don't feel like torturing myself. I'm a writer because I love to write. Why should I be forced to do something I hate? I honestly don't see the benefit either. I can't imagine that doing a reading will lead me to sell a significantly larger number of books.
I don't know how to handle the request though. Should I just make an excuse? I fear this will probably start coming up again and again, though. I haven't spoken to my agent about it yet because the request is not through her.
I know that people who don't have this issue with public speaking may see it as a sort of weakness. And they probably don't understand how excruciating it is. I also feel badly about letting people down or giving them a negative impression of me.
Anyone have advice?
ButterflyGirl:
Is it a reading to young children, like at a bookstore? If so, you might call up your local daycare center or library (since it's summer, vs. a local school), and see if they'd like you to read during "story time." It would be a way to practice with lower stakes. Plus, there wouldn't be a long wait to your reading day (they'd likely ask you to stop by next week!)
If that's not a fix and the prospect is truly overwhelming, then sharing your real reasons would be better than an excuse, IMHO. Maybe the event's host will have another way for you to participate. Perhaps there is a question and answer session where attendees can ask questions of an author, etc. You may feel less anxious about participating if you can be spontaneous in answers vs. giving a "performance."
:hug
Mara:
I think you should say no and make any excuse you like. And don't worry about it! Be happy.
AnneB:
Just say you don't do readings. You don't owe anybody an explanation.
217mom:
I have similar issues (minus the PS course and psychologist) and I like Mara's solution. Reality is not like the fiction we write, where the hero confronts and overcomes all their fears. We have to choose which is really absolutely worthy to do battle with.
:beach :hottub :garden:
Life is as good as we make it.
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