How to fight your inner introvert - theFIX with Jasmine Star
When Jasmine Star, my favorite Wedding Photographer/Entrepreneur/Blogger, announced she was going to be in Miami, FL. I didn't think twice. I set up the alarm and was ready to buy that ticket as soon as they were available. I didn't think about the 4-hour drive, nor hotel accommodations, not even if my hubby could accompany me. I just got blinded by excitement and bought the ticket. When the confirmation email arrived, it hit me. "You are driving to Miami, to a room full of people that you don't know! ARE YOU CRAZY?" Then the security blanket kicked in: "Maybe Ob (the hubby) can make it, and we transform it into a weekend getaway". But that was not happening...It has to be me, all by myself. How would I manage?Then the amazing happened, a new friend, Sonal from Sonal Creates Photography was driving down and asked me if I wanted to drive with her (I'm glad she asked because probably I wouldn't have the courage to ask her myself!).Without thinking I said yes. I knew if I thought it for a second, the fear would kick in and ruined this new opportunity to connect to a photographer in the area. Sonal and I casually met back in December. We had the opportunity to work together editing photos for the Help-Portrait in Tampa. But she was staying with her boyfriend at her brother small apartment. And the second challenge approached, I needed a place to stay. Thanks to the amazing people of Showit (my web hosting service community) I found out there were two lovely ladies, Dawn and Elle, that needed a roomie, actually 2. I said yes, again, without thinking it too much. The fourth lady was Terri, from Celebration, FL. As soon as we started talking to each other, we clicked. It turned out to be a great experience.And of course, theFIX itself turned out to be a night of rediscovery, inspirations and more new people. Jasmine, once more, shared her experience but it was more about getting our questions answered, an excuse to question why our business is not moving forward and create a dialog among photographers. She believes that us, photographers, instead of fighting for clients. I share that belief. That's why I want to keep pushing myself to be part of this type of things... anxiety or not.
It was a very fulfilling weekend. Not only I met new people, stood in front of everybody to asked a question and shared a room with strangers; I rediscover a part of me that has been dormant: The risky, fun and willing photographer that I am. I'm not saying that I'm all cured and comfortable with exposing myself to new crowds...but it was a great start!Happy Monday!