I am shy by nature. It is not always easy for me to go to a place with lots of people or walk up to someone one on one and start networking. However, I have found that the only way I can accomplish many of my goals is by stepping out of my comfort zone and making contact with others around me.

I found this very beneficial lately when it came time to find book reviewers for my new alphabet book that is scheduled to come out in the Fall of 2009. I didn’t know a whole lot of people who had a historical background who could be a reviewer. But when I started thinking about some possible choices, I came up with a non-profit organization whose goal is to preserve the true history of our nation. I wrote a brief e-mail explaining who I was, how I was aware of their group, and the purpose for my e-mail. Shortly afterward, I received a return e-mail stating that one of their speakers would love to review the book.

That same speaker was scheduled to speak at my church this past weekend. I was nervous, but after service I stepped out of my comfort zone again and went to introduce myself. I also wanted to thank him for his willingness to review my book. No sooner had I told him who I was and about his reviewing my book, then he immediately told me that I had to go on his radio program! I mentioned that the book wasn’t due until the following fall, but that didn’t deter him one bit. He still wants me to be on his show!

Talk about a blessing! By my pushing aside my shyness, I got a reviewer and a radio interview for the future! This would not have come about if I hadn’t stepped out and stepped forward.

Do you need to get out of your comfort zone to accomplish something in your writing career? Take a deep breath and make the move. You may be very pleased with the results!

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