It took me years to find the word to describe my tendency to make art but never show it to anyone.

There were many years of awkwardly saying no to social situations, staying quiet, ditching classes and quitting jobs. I constantly felt drained by normal adult behavior.

It took me a long time to accept my quirks, to understand them and learn how to finally work around them.

The weird thing about introverts is that because we keep to ourselves we assume that we’re the only ones feeling the way we do.

Most people assume that I enjoy sharing my work online. While there is a feeling of pride and good gushy stuff, there’s also a worry and pit in my stomach that sets in. Man do I cringe.

At times, even just sharing an image from a sketchbook can cause a feeling of dread that lingers for hours.

You have to do it though. Your livelihood depends on your ability to self-promote. So you press that share button, you take a deep breath and you allow the unease to creep in.

For some (me), it feels like your overactive sweat glands and coffee-jitter heart had a baby that whispers, “What’s the point?” into your ears. It’s exhausting and it feels endless.

It doesn't have to stop you from sharing your work though. You’re not alone. Most of us are just pretending to be fearless and confident. The more you share, the easier it gets. Press on and keep making things. I know from experience that when you retreat into your safe, introverted bubble for too long, you forget to come out.

When you're hiding from the things that make you uncomfortable you’re also missing out on all the things that bring you joy.

Love,

Your Introverted Buddy who is Pretending to be Brave