Never

I guess it’s been over a year since my hubby urged me to start becoming more involved in the social media world. To be honest I saw how much time it was taking out of his already busy days and I couldn’t see how I could justify taking more time that didn’t specifically involve my family or work. Then things began to change as I started writing at the beginning of the year and doing research for my manuscript. I found many articles about how important it is to be part of this new era of writing and publishing that all stress how things have drastically changed in the way people promote their books. I slowly realized that the hubby was right all along (I’ll save him the breath and time it takes and say, “You told me so…I know dear.”

I already had a MySpace that I was using just for fun as well as a Facebook that I’d set up to connect with some old High School friends and relatives. The first step he had me take was to add a Fan Page to my Facebook which I had to laugh at. Who exactly is going to be a fan was my first thought. Then I remembered my mom and sister as well as a few cousins are connected with me there so I hoped I wouldn’t look totally pathetic if at least they joined. Fortunately they took pity and soon a few other of my friends followed suit and I’ve been overwhelmed with how much support I quickly received and continue to receive from all of you as I journey down this crazy path.

The next step and of course the biggest leap was to join Twitter. It was the one thing I nagged about the most and figured that if I ever joined it would be kicking and screaming or with some sort of blackmail plot that someone was holding over my head. As exciting as all that sounds…I actually signed up quietly one afternoon while no one was in our home office and didn’t say a word. Soon enough I became painfully aware that I didn’t know the proper Twitter etiquette and I had no followers so I had to swallow my pride and approach my husband, the Twitter Master, and ask for his assistance. He patiently (probably still in shock) tutored me in the proper ways to Retweet and say something profound in 140 characters or less (very hard for us long-winded writer types) and soon enough I became a true Twitterer! This was honestly one of the hardest things for me to do, yet the benefits have been amazing after only about six weeks. I now am following some great authors who have gracefully answered my questions and given me great advice as well. I have many publishers and editors that I’m following who have incredibly informative blogs and posts that have been priceless and somehow always seem to pop up just when I need them most. It’s been a real blessing to have made so many wonderful connections to people who I now consider my friends.

Thank you for all the support you’ve given and continue to show for a girl who has learned it’s never a good idea to use the word never!!!

Tagged as: facebook, MySpace, never say never, social media, Twitter