I'll be a first-timer when the ACFW Conference rolls around in two weeks. Cara's tips on the first-timers' loop have been such a huge help (Thanks, Cara!) and so have this week's Hoosier Ink's posts. But I've discovered a few other things that help relieve my jitters.1) Edit my manuscript, re-edit, then throw it all out. I've found that a grande caramel macchiato from Starbucks eases the headache that ensues.
2) Try on conference-worthy clothes ten times a day, then scrap them all and go shopping. Thank you, caramel macchiatos, for changing my jacket size.
3) Stalk agent and editor blogs. Not only does this help me know what they're looking for, it gives me some good conversation starters. "So Rachelle, I see you're wearing the same red shirt, diamond earrings, and sapphire teardrop necklace you wore in your profile picture."
4) Write blog posts about my nerves and hope someone wiser has some serious tips on how to overcome my jitters.
Any takers?
Oh, Sarah, you are gonna have a BLAST! And I can't wait to meet you!!!
ReplyDeleteThat's my advice. Just have fun. Let go and let God.
See you at conference, Sarah! Come over and hug your fellow ACFWers because everyone is ultra-friendly. Anyone will help you out and some of those editors and agents can be really nice--some of them may even be nervous.
ReplyDeletePatti & Crystal - Thanks so much for your advice! Fun and hugs...I think I can handle that. :)
ReplyDeleteI have to admit, I'm so jealous. I attended my first ACFW conference last year in Denver. It was so fabulous and I couldn't wait until this year. I signed up right away but unfortunately had to cancel last month (insert major pout).
ReplyDeleteYou will LOVE it. I can't wait to hear about your experience. :-)
Sarah, save me a hug at the ACFW!! This photo is hysterical and had me laughing. Is it you? It's my first ACFW, too, so we'll be in this together, along with many others. I think we should take the advice of those who've been there before. From what I understand, once we share some hugs and pair names and faces together, we'll feel much more at home. I've already warned my family that I'm going to be horrible to live with after the conference. It'll take me awhile to come down from the natural "high," I'm sure. It'll be great to see what the Lord will do! Blessings, and see you soon!
ReplyDeleteJoAnn - No, the picture isn't me. But I could do the same pose pretty easily right now. :)
ReplyDelete