So, Did I Flop or Not? by Gerri Brousseau

Last Friday I wrote a blog article entitled, “Will I Come Out on Top, or Flop.”  I was talking about a workshop I was going to presenting with my friend and mentor, Susan Hanniford Crowley, at CTRWA Fiction Fest.   Our workshop, Blogging With Heart, was going to be the first time I was to speak before a group of writers.  As you know if you read Friday’s article, I was nervous and that evil “Doubt Monster” had crept into my mind.  I was worried.  Would there be people snoring in the back of the room?  Would these writers think I was an idiot who had no real idea what the heck I was talking about?  Would I drop my notes, lose my place and look like a fool?

Susan had a complete workshop prepared, as she had done this several times before.  (Special thanks to her for allowing me to put my two cents in)  I knew what her presentation would be, so I reviewed it and planned out what I wanted to say.  I made notes, numbered my pages (in case I did drop them), I practiced in front of a mirror.  The day of the workshop arrived and my stomach danced with nerves.

The room was prepared, and the handouts were placed on each chair.  The clock was ticking … would anyone come to hear our talk?  Five more minutes until the workshop kicks off … what if no one comes?  Damn you, Doubt Monster.  Then, a few people appeared at the door; and then a few more … and soon, the room was full.  Now that nasty Doubt Monster whispered … “you are a fool if you think you will be successful here.”  It was then Susan welcomed those attending and my inner warrior princess told that doubt monster to back off and shut up!  And much like my skydiving experience where I found, once you are out the door of the plane, it’s all good … here I found that once I uttered my first words … it went well.

The atmosphere of our workshop was friendly and low key.  This is because Susan and I have blogged together for a while.  She is my friend and mentor, so we talk frequently.  We sat in front of the room and presented as if we were simply having a chat.  People asked questions, good questions … and we answered them.  People laughed … where they were supposed to.

Many told me later they really enjoyed our presentation.  Writers came up to me afterward and asked additional questions.  I would say the workshop was a success … not only that, it was a ton of fun to do.  So, I guess I did come out on top … and it turned out to be the Doubt Monster who took a flop!

Filed under: romance