To My Fellow Wallflowers

Embracing the Uncomfortable: My Journey Through Book Launches

As a new author, I’m still in the “throw spaghetti at the wall and see what sticks” phase—especially when it comes to launching my books. My first two novel releases were learning experiences, each with its own flavor and lessons.

Launching The Flannigan GirlsFor my debut, The Flannigan Girls, I opted for an intimate gathering at The Curious Cat Book Shop in Winsted, CT. It felt like joining a cozy book club, chatting with a small group before they even turned the first page. The setting was relaxed, the conversation flowed, and I got to share my excitement in a personal way.

From This Day Forward: A Dual ApproachWith From This Day Forward, I wanted to shake things up. I hosted both a virtual and an in-person launch to celebrate its release. The virtual event allowed friends and readers from afar to join in, while the in-person gathering brought everyone together in one room. It was double the nerves but also double the joy.

Peopling: An Introvert/Extrovert’s DilemmaAs someone who’s both introvert and extrovert, stepping into the spotlight is never easy. The lead-up to any event is full of anxiety—my mind racing, my nerves jangling. But once I’m there, the nervous energy turns into endless chatter. I can’t help it! I tell myself to slow down, but the words just keep coming. By the time I get home, I’m exhausted, collapsing on the couch, spent from all the “peopling.”

Preschoolers vs. AdultsPut me in a room with 20 preschoolers, and I’m in my element—Mrs. Haller takes the stage! But with 20 adults? That’s a different story. I need deep breaths and a pep talk just to get started. My fingernails? They’ve suffered for it.

Learning to Embrace the UncomfortableMy first real taste of public discomfort came during my yoga teacher training. I had to teach a 30-minute class to my fellow trainees. I hid in a corner, using EFT tapping to calm my nerves. My hands shook, my voice trembled, and I avoided eye contact. But I was surrounded by love and support, and in the end, it went better than I expected. Each time I taught after that, it got a little easier.

Launching FTDF: Trying Something NewWhen it came time to launch From This Day Forward, I knew I wanted to try something different. The virtual and in-person launches pushed me out of my comfort zone, but I was lucky to have my son moderate the virtual event and my friend Jess host the in-person one. Once again, I was surrounded by people who believed in me, and that made all the difference.

Looking Back with GratitudeNow that both launches are behind me, I’m filled with gratitude. I know I’ll always struggle with stepping into the spotlight—just like I’ll never have naturally beautiful, long nails. But knowing there are people cheering me on makes it a little easier. I can finally exhale.

To My Fellow WallflowersIf you’re like me and prefer to blend into the crowd rather than stand in the spotlight, I see you. I get it. We’re in this together. Let’s keep getting comfortable with the uncomfortable—one deep breath at a time.