The Challenge

2019 is just days away. Where has this year gone?

Many are asking themselves that question right now, including me. 2018 has been a challenging year for most people on many levels. Health, finances, relationships ... you name it. One thing is for certain. Nothing stays static. Everything is always shifting.

Speaking of that, about a month ago I decided to do the 2019 Photo-A-Day challenge. I haven't done it since 2012 and yes, it was quite a challenge, but I found one thing happened that helped me grow as a person - it took me way out of my comfort zone.

Why? Two reasons:

1. I had to get over worrying about what other people and photographers would think about what I chose to photograph each day. 
2. When you're committed to shooting an image a day, it teaches you to REALLY notice people, places, and things around you.

So ... here we go, starting anew on January 1st. If you're so inclined and want to join me in this challenge, use the CONTACT form on the right and let me know where you'll be posting your images. I'd love to see them! Mine will be posted right here.

If you'd like to be notified by email when I post my images, plop your email address in on the right. Don't worry ... I'm not compiling an email list to send you stuff. Not my style. 

Wishing you all a magnificent new year! 

How To Overcome Shyness

Let’s say you’ve been invited to a dinner party by a friend and she is the only person you’ll know there. You have a few butterflies about it because you’re a bit on the shy side. But you don’t want to disappoint your friend. Maybe you’ll even have a good time so you agree to go.

Step One:

Pick out one person at the event who looks friendly. Strike up a conversation by introducing yourself and then asking a non-threatening question. It could be something like “Hi, I’m Tammy. I don’t know anyone here. Do you mind if I ask you a question?” Most likely that person will say, “Sure.” Then ask,  “Have you known {Host’s name} long?”

Or you could say, “Hi, I’m Tammy. I don’t know anyone here so I looked for a friendly face in the crowd and you’re it.” Then smile and let the other person talk. You’ll usually find that person will open up to a conversation. Repeat their name back to them so that you’ll remember it and use their name in your conversation.

Step Two:

Ask people questions about themselves. This allows them to open up and engage in a conversation. Pay them sincere compliments. For example, if the person has an attractive outfit, tell them that you like it. If that person has nice eyes or a great smile, compliment them. Again, be sincere. Phony compliments always backfire.

Step Three:

Look people in the eye. It lets them know you’re listening to what they’re saying. It’s easy to get distracted by what’s going on around you, so give the person you’re speaking with your undivided attention. It makes them feel important and you would want the same respect.  

All three of these steps in making people like you are easy to master and are adaptable to almost any social situation.

Remember ... life begins at the end of your comfort zone.