I started off 2020 completely and utterly exhausted. And because I’m a Type-A tiny business-owning mom of two children under the age of 7, the exhaustion, while expected, is also partly my own doing.  I didn’t really need to be out until 2:00 a.m. last Friday singing karaoke … or did I?

In these exhausting early weeks of 2020, I’ve learned and been reminded of these four things:

• The basics of good communication
• The benefits of finding a release
• Why every author needs to find community
• Don’t disregard coincidence

The Basics of Good Communication

I was asked to speak to fourth grade Girl Scouts last week as they work hard on selling those delicious cookies. Here’s what I said about speaking to customers:

• Greet someone
• If you know his/her name, use it
• Maintain eye contact
• Always be courteous
• Get to know your customer by asking questions. (Know not to recommend a purchase of Tagalongs® if the customer has a peanut allergy.)
• Listen to their answers; don’t talk over them
• Always show gratitude

I left those lovely young ladies with a notebook to document their customer’s likes and dislikes, and locations and social media platforms that worked and didn’t for sales.

I also told them not to take rejection personally. We might not always know why someone says no, but that’s their right and there’s a good chance it has nothing to do with us.

The Benefits of Finding a Release

I don’t have a passion, a hobby, anything that I can’t live without. There are lots of activities I like and enjoy, but I can’t say there is much that I love. At some point in my life this really bothered me. But, after some soul-searching and therapy sessions, I let that shit go. What I realized is that my passion is usually towards people. Rather than spending so much time trying to figure out if I want cheese-making to be my thing, I’m going to do what I can to spend more time with those I’m passionate about, and I’m going to do what makes me feel mentally cleansed. Welcome karaoke.

Cluttered brain be gone.

Tense muscles released.

Arched shoulders relaxed.

Stiff legs loose.

Voice…The publicist can’t talk anymore…She’s hoarse…She’s sung too much Pat Benatar.

I’ve unburdened myself for a small window of time.

Does it really help me think better/feel better/be better? Oh gosh, yes.

Do I love Karaoke? Ok, I do. Especially, when I’ve got awesome women by my side.

What’s your release?

Why Every Author Needs to Find Community [Read more…]