Birth Of A Social Networking Loner
It was not long ago I protested the use of social networking sites, nose a little skyward, with quips like:
“You’ll never catch me on Twitter.”
“I dare you to Google me. You won’t find anything but job-related links.”
“I only wish my life was so dull that I could spend hours of it twiddling online.”
Well, I may not be twiddling, but I’m certainly twittering. And Goodreading. And WordPressing. And commenting and liking and Linking on In.
Writers know marketing is part of the publishing process. They also know it should start early, well before a book summons its first paying reader. But here’s the snag. Many writers are introverts. That is probably why we like to write. We are alone. With our thoughts. Thoughts easier to reveal by keyboard than mouth.
If you are not sure whether or not you are an introvert (really?), I found a checklist to guide you. Might be the highest test score I’ve ever received.
Okay, no need for nail biting; I made peace with my introversion long ago. Or my “Sheldonism” as my family calls it, for any Big Bang Theory fans out there. In fact, I rather enjoy the following quote: “The limited circle is pure.”—Franz Kafka.
Kind of ironic I found it on a social networking site.
So how does a reticent networker network? Surprisingly easily. In fact, maybe these sites were developed with the introvert in mind. Express yourself in 140 characters or less? No problem. Join a discussion without the usual pressure of verbal tongue-tie? Groovy. Comment on blog posts you find insightful and interesting, all from the comfort of your timid cocoon? (Or Snuggie if you’re one of those. I am not). Hey, count me in.
And guess what? It has been much easier to assimilate than I ever imagined. In fact, most challenging is:
- Deluding myself I hold anything of interest to others.
- Budgeting my time accordingly. I am trying to write another novel, after all.
The latter is proving most difficult. I encounter so many interesting people, whether by perusing blogs or eyeballing tweets or comparing book lists. People from different countries, different life situations, different viewpoints. And how cool is it to tweet an author whose book you’ve just read? Seems much more than mere marketing (especially considering I am presently a product-less promoter). In fact, it is more like an awakening.
Now, if only I could learn to put it down for a nap…
Photo credit: all images from Microsoft Clip Art
Related articles
- Step Into My World (listentomethunder.wordpress.com)
- Quiet; Took Me 40 Years To Be A Proud Introvert (scrapsofmygeeklife.com)
Reblogged this on Kiara Lane.
Thanks for the reblog of my post!
your welcome
I seem to recall reading articles about how social networking sites were good for the introvert; it looks like you’ve got the gist of it.
Me, I’m gradually trying out social networking for a variety of things.
I started FaceBook and Twitter to follow companies for sweepstakes (“Like us to enter,” “tweet with this hashtag to enter,” type contests).
Those two have progressed to auto-updating with my ebay sales, BookCrossing registration/release, and blog updates. I set up the link and let the site do the work.
I haven’t done much else with them yet.
I started using WordPress merely to track my NaNoWriMo progress and attempt to network with other NaNoers. I’ve progressed to migrating over the content from my website in a (hopefully) more organized fashion than what existed on the old host.
I created a new site on WordPress and on FaceBook to eventually promote my fiction. Though I guess I need to have something completed before I have something to promote. ^^;
AND I have a WordPress blog that is entirely an “interactive resume”…or it will be once I’ve finished adding the right details.
Anything else…I’m still exploring.
I haven’t made up my mind if I should join any other sites, and the ones I have looked at don’t look right for me. (Do I need Tumblr when I’ve already got deviantArt? livejournal when I’m on WordPress? etc)
Speaking not as an introvert but as a Computer Science major, there is such a thing as too much. Too many sites, too many accounts. Maybe not from the perspective of the reader–the more I’m out there, the more likely someone will find me–but how the heck do I keep track of what I’m supposed to post where?
You are so right–there is too much available. Leaves me a bit overwhelmed. I don’t know what Tumblr is, but I’ve seen in mentioned a few times. I haven’t looked it up, because I feel I’ve got enough going on. I also hadn’t heard of BookCrossing until I just read your most recent blog post! Once my book is out, though, I may have to explore some of these other options. I honestly haven’t done anything with Linked In other then set up a profile and join some writing groups. I do like perusing the groups’ discussion boards though.
I guess the key is to proceed as you have. One step at a time. Thanks for coming by and commenting!
I’d only heard of Tumblr because some of the people I follow on deviantArt have accounts there. I looked at their accounts, but it isn’t like I need Tumblr if I’m already watching them on dA.
I’ve only given LinkIn a try because I’ve seen it advertised as a “professional” network (college, and the perpetual job search). I’m not really using it as yet another social networking site, though I have toyed with the idea of letting it show my WordPress activity…from the interactive resume, at least. The writing groups sound like a good idea, though.
Was that my most recent post?
Geez, I guess I need to post something else soon. Hopefully something BESIDES migrating another “I have things for sale” page from the old site.
You’re welcome.
I enjoy using Pinterest, reading blogs, writing my blog (when I remember I have one), and using Facebook. Goodreads will be another addiction for me soon I’m sure. I find that some social networking sites are more ‘social’ than others. Some merely allow you to share information with others, but there is a limit to the interaction you actually have with people. I will admit, I tend to use most social networking sites to learn things or simply relax. I think I am a ‘closet introvert’. Outside of the house (at work, stores, etc) I tend to talk to everyone, but on the computer I only interact when something really interests me, or I feel like sharing something.
I like what horribly blissful said: “technology has helped bridge up the long distances and has created long distance between those who are near…”
Yes, I liked that comment, too; something we all need to be careful of. Though I will say a plus side to all of this online communication is more interaction with family members who live far away from me. Through email, texting, and even via comments on my blog, we are able to connect more often. Of course, that means less frequent telephone communication, but I was never a chatty Cathy on the phone, anyway.
Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting. Based on your above words, I assume that means this interested you or you felt like sharing. I’ll take either
It was both actually. What you wrote was interesting and that made me feel like sharing my thoughts. I agree that social media (and computers in general) have made it easier to keep in touch with family and friends that live far away.
Pingback: The Liebster Who Inspiringly Straddled The Sunshine « The Write Transition
that’s right, technology has helped bridge up the long distances and has created long distance between those who are near…
“has created long distance between those who are near…”–I like how you put that. We need to make sure we don’t get lost in the online world as opposed to the real. Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting. Good luck with your new blog!
thanx
hope to be in touch….
The influence of social networking is very influential in a person, although there may be shortages and there is excess.
hello bloggers.
I think I’m in the excess zone!
Stopped by your blog, but sadly, I do not understand the language. If it’s not in English or French, I’m afraid this old gal is clueless. Though I keep telling myself I must learn Spanish. Maybe if I could ever get off these social networking sites long enough, I just might! Thanks for commenting!
I love your blog. I like Goodreads, though I tend to use it more for looking up quotes. I always considered myself to be an introvert evolving into an extravert and being confused about the results, but I think I just learned that I am highly sensitive.
Yes, I need to get a little more active in Goodreads myself. If you ever do evolve into an extravert, please tell me how you did it!
Thanks for stopping by. Loved your “douche” post from yesterday, by the way!
Great post, really enjoyed it. Loved the link, very informative and eye openning. I too am an introvert and even as I write this I have to read it like five times before I can hit Post. Social networking is hard because I have to think out what I want to say first, then I write it out and make sure it’s jjjuuussstt right. Time consuming.
So you’re one of those too! I often read and re-read what I am about to post, even comments. But I suppose that is good. Once it’s out there, there’s no taking it back (unless it’s your own blog, of course!).
Thanks so much for stopping by!
Like your blog!
Interesting read for me since I have still not embraced the “social networking” world. But hey, I’m leaving a comment here so that’s a start I guess.
I wrote a piece a bit back on my feelings on the subject:
Social Media And The Recluse
Was a tad bit negative but expresses how I feel. I’ve had many blogs, over the years, and I would always wonder why nobody was reading or commenting. Duh! I finally got through my thick skull that I have to interact, in order for people to find me. And there lies the dilemma.
I’m trying and your post gives me more of a push to try harder!
I clicked over to your site and read that post. You have no idea how much I could identify. But while I still am not good at the sites that require “friending”, I am really enjoying reading other blogs and commenting. This form of interaction seems easier to me. If I like what people have to say, I can tell them. Same goes for them about my blog posts. So good luck in your quest to branch out!
By the way, I signed up to follow your blog. Looks great. Thanks so much for stopping by mine!
I too am fighting my introverted nature in order to hopefully increase my chances of eventual publication. By making myself comment on other people’s blogs so that they might, in turn, read mine. Shameless. I’m just glad yours was entertaining! Best of luck in your digital gregariousness.
Now to take that introversion quiz…
Thank you! Yes, leaving those first few comments on other blogs was strange for me. I went from no Gravitar, to a picture of an object, to finally an image of myself. I decided that if you are going to market a book, you might as well make it easy for people to find you. Unless you’re Stephen King or Mary Higgins Clark, of course! Thanks so much for stopping by. Good luck on your test!
I too am Sheldonish. The anonymity that social networking offers is a very attractive trait that allows me to come out of my shell (don?) and bravely state my opinions.
Fantastic post!
Thanks for the compliment! I like how you put that: are we coming out of our shell or donning it? Great point!
This is a great post! I can really relate! Starting a blog was my first baby step to putting myself out there.
Glad you liked it! Good luck in moving from diapers to pull-ups!
Thank you for validating my introvert tendencies. Up until a few months ago I was proud that youd couldn’t find me on Google, I refused to go Twitter because I didn’t understand it and Facebook was just awa to stalk old friends.
Then I published a book…well let’s just say I’m still learning and it’s a very.slow.process.
Thanks for making me feel like it’s just not me.
I’m sorry I apologize for my horrid typos. Guess I was excited to comment on something for the first time ever.
Well, it’s just a comment, not a Pulitzer, so no worries!
Congrats on your book! And yes, it’s funny how sometimes we need to step down from our lofty heights and join the masses. But the joke was on me, because I discovered I kind of liked it!
Thanks for stopping by!
I liked your thoughts on us writers being introverted! Entirely true! I feel like the social media sites do keep us introverted in a sense… Instead of engaging in face-to-face personal conversations, people are more and more looking to social media so they can be introverted at home, but appear to be extroverted online…. interesting right?
Nice post, I enjoyed.
Logan
http://blog.allamericanclothing.com/
Great way of putting it. I think you are right. It is easier to appear extroverted online. And you don’t have to hug anyone…
Thanks for commenting!
Nice post! I wouldn’t call myself an introvert, but I’m naturally shy and tend to be quiet around groups of people I don’t know. Once I feel confortable though, I love talking and discussing things, so social networking sites are wonderful for me.
Goodreads is one of the first sites I started using regularly, I love it.
I think many people equate shyness with introversion, but they aren’t the same thing. Thanks for pointing that out. Some of us, however, are “gifted” with both…
Thanks for commenting!
Congrats on your Freshly Pressed! If you ever had hopes of being a loner, introvert writer they are surely dashed now. Your 15 minutes of Andy Warhol-icism has just started – use it wisely!
That’s so funny, because I was just thinking about that last night while I was staring at the ceiling, wide awake: “Hey, wait a minute. I’m an introvert. And now everyone knows it!” Sometimes it’s easy to forget that what we write on the keyboard actually might go somewhere. But that’s okay. Because as a writer, I will do it again. And again. And again.
Thanks so much for visiting!
I too am introvert and like most introverts discovered i could only comfortably speak with a pen and paper very early in ma life. But its very inspiring to get such a view from someone who is way older. Lets keep it introvert n proud of it. More Love.
Well, good for you for recognizing it so early! I always thought I was just weird. Well, okay, I am weird, but that’s beside the point…
Thanks so much for visiting!
P.S. “Way older?!” Ha ha, now you sound just like my sons!
Well done! . . . As a fellow introvert, I can relate completely!
http://arabianmusings.wordpress.com/
Thanks so much! And very interesting blog, by the way. What a transition you must have made to go from DC to Saudi Arabia!
Reblogged this on ltmdmmr and commented:
)
Thanks for another reblog! I’m feeling strangely viral. And for once it’s not from someone coughing in my face…
Love the post. I used to have a few social networking profiles, but even being a writer, I will never go back on them. All I encountered was a bunch of children who wanted to complain about work and/or college.
Ugh, maybe I’ll have to pay someone else to create them and monitor them for networking. LOL.
Anyway, keep up the good work!
Thanks for the comment! Luckily, I haven’t encountered too many complainers out there. That’s the nice thing about online networking: one click and the undesirable goes away
I reallllly liked your thoughts and the article over introversion was quite interesting, I myself scored highly on the test. ^_^ accepting this aspect of ourselves is the hard part. However, I think it is where we learn the most about ourselves and the world.
by the way, I added a link to your page and the article on my post (about introverts, extroverts, and language), if you do not want them included, just post on that post and I will take it off.
anyways, Thank You for posting this XD
Yes, I saw your link and enjoyed reading your post. Thanks for linking to it! Glad you found the material interesting. Thanks for taking the time to visit and comment!
Pingback: about introverts, extroverts, and language « sam1521
I wonder if being introverted and being a loner go together…
Well, they do in my case. That doesn’t mean I always want to be alone, but I certainly don’t mind my own company. Except when I’m being bossy. Then I could do without me…
Thanks for visiting!
.1 & .2 –oh so familiar…..
I suspect they are for many–especially the time budgeting part! Thanks for stopping by!
Just this past month, I have been coming to terms with my introverted nature, which I didn’t realise I had until I did the test to determine it. I thought I was a dysfunctional extrovert! It’s funny isn’t it, because the desire for self-expression is there, SO there, but the preference is for secluded time to develop that idea and express it safely. Your post is confirmation. Thank you!
“the desire for self-expression is there, SO there, but the preference is for secluded time to develop that idea and express it safely”–loved how you put that. So true! That test is certainly an eye-opener, isn’t it? Thanks so much for visiting and commenting!
Great little post. I fought the social network allure too…. Lost much like everyone else. But I put up a good fight.
Well, hopefully you didn’t get too bruised in the process!
Thanks for visiting and commenting!
Really entertaining post.
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Reblogged this on dogear6 journal jar.
Thank you for disseminating my words! Appreciate it!
Very interesting entry!
Thank you! I appreciate you taking the time to check it out!
very interesting article.
TechSmartLife
What the heck, I’ll allow a self-plug!
WoW, look at all those comments, and likes by other bloggers! Well done you.
Good lick with the novel BTW.
I’m a lonesome blogger too. Fun, isn’t it
Thank you so much! It is hard to believe all of these people have taken the time to read my post and comment/like. I will keep riding the wave and hope the still waters are a long way off!
Thanks for stopping by!
*luck. Tho I’m sure you’ll lick it!
Keep writing!
Thank you! It took me a lot of years to get here, and I plan to keep going until they kick me out of the club!
Pingback: Angst of a Type-A Freshly Pressed Blogger « The Write Transition
Those boring Microsoft clip arts look surprisingly good here!
Nice post!
I was waiting for someone to notice my complete unimaginativeness when it comes to my visuals! But clip art is quick and easy. That way I can focus on my words. I’ll leave photography to others. And you will all thank me for that, believe me.
Thank you for stopping by!
I’m not so good at managing my time either. I can waste time at the speed of sound and still not get done what I want to get done. Let alone writing a novel. It’s in there somewhere and making the time to restart is the problem.
Oh, it is easy to lose massive amounts of time online, isn’t it?! I definitely still need to work on the whole balance thing. Thanks so much for visiting!
I’m trying to write my first novel. It’s easier said than done even with the right idea, so a little discipline might not go amiss.
I wish you luck on it! The writer Wayson Choy says: “The only secret to writing is AC: Ass on Chair.” I believe he’s right!
Great post and congrats on being freshly pressed
I am most definitely an introvert myself, and I have come to peaceful terms with that. It seems like many of us creative folk tend to walk on the introverted side of life, perhaps it’s the introspection that fuels the creative mojo? I’m glad I came across your blog and am looking forward to following along with it…
Karen
Thank you! It is nice to come to peace with it, isn’t it? After all those years of being told I need to speak up more, I have come to a comfortable alternative: the online community
Pingback: 018. Birth of a Social Networking Loner « lycanthrosexual
Below, I copied from yours, and I was very impressive
“Writers know marketing is part of the publishing process. They also know it should start early, well before a book summons its first paying reader. But here’s the snag. Many writers are introverts. That is probably why we like to write. We are alone. With our thoughts. Thoughts easier to reveal by keyboard than mouth.”
Thank you so much, and thank you for visiting my site!
love the conclusion about social networking being created with the introvert in mind. for years whenever i took those myers-brigs tests, i’d fall on the cusp of extro/introvert. it didn’t help that people would always tell me i’m so ‘outgoing’ so it made me think i was an extrovert! i love getting older and coming to terms with the ‘real me’. the part in the link you sent about being honest with friends and family has been really helpful. (although it’s taken some work to convince people that i really am an intro/extro *hahah*). this is a great post!
Yes, getting older makes it easier to say, “Hey, this is who I am, and I’m ok with that.” Many of my family members are the same way, so I don’t have to do much explaining to them!
Thanks for commenting!
Reblogged this on darrenpolite and commented:
If this blog post wasnt meant for me today.. i dont know what was! great stuff!
Wow. Did i need to read your Blog today! i just started on Twitter/Wordpress and am realizing i am such an introvert in ways.. i will be following your blog! btw.. i am a CPA by week day.. Artist/Songwriter/Producer by after weekday
Thanks so much! Good luck with your social networking. I see you already have Twitter linked to your blog. You are way ahead of where I was when I started! Thanks for stopping by and for reblogging my post!
OMG Carrie! We both “liked” each other’s posts a couple of weeks ago and then we were both freshly pressed. Coincidence? No flippin’ way. I’m gonna follow you now, and I suggest you do the same. These cosmic, “I like you, you like me,” parallel universe, all things are connected, light family, blah blah blah blekity blah things don’t happen every day, and we need to keep the cosmic electricity going.
=)
Congrats!
I’m thinking you might be right! Thanks for the follow. I’ll be following your blog, too, not only because of cosmic powers, but because it is a great blog! Looking forward to reading more of your posts.
Thanks for stopping by!
hey !! i think… u could write an awosemmest rock song out this post !! ❤ it
its nose a little skyward.. ❤
As long as I don’t have to sing it!
Thanks for visiting!
Ugh time management is my achilles heel. I can spend hours online and not know what the heck I was doing the whole time.
So true, so true. But somehow, even though I get lost in time, I still manage to eat. Combined with all that sitting–not a good thing. If I can block everything else out, why not that donut?
Thanks so much for visiting!
Great post – now get back to that novel – then back to twitter – and then, oh forget it… maybe take the day off and enjoy some wine.
Congrats on being FP!
Thanks so much, and I like your thinking! Though make mine a beer. Uncouth, I know, but, to quote my son, that’s just the way I roll..
Reblogged this on dreamerslybrinth.
Thank you! I appreciate the reblog!
Funny how your family points out your Sheldonism; my friends at work always call me Sheldon and I had to watch the series to get the reference. Can’t say I regret discovering that awesome show! One of my close friends even wore a Sheldon shirt with a statement that goes. “your sarcasm does NOT affect me”. I’m sarcastic, so what.
Social networking for introverts is a delight. You stave off from awkwards situations you get only when you socialize face-to-face. There’s more thinking time to come up with replies. And the list of pros goes on.
All the best for that novel you’re working on!
I definitely agree with all of your pros! From one Sheldon to another. Although I think, or at least I certainly hope (!), that I’m less irritating than him and a little more in tune to others’ feelings. Otherwise my husband would have left me years ago!
Thanks for commenting!
I feel like being an introvert starts taking a toll on ones mental health no? I’m not much of a socializer myself but eversince i moved to Sydney I have this constant urge to meet people… must be my feelings of insecurity cause I was never the one to give two hoots about making new friends back home :/
I do worry about those studies that show social people with large social networks live longer! But many introverts have strong social ties, too. They just often have smaller circles. But I agree, moving to a new area must be followed by developing at least some social ties. No one should be alone all of the time!
Thanks for visiting!
Yeah, the social media vs actual writing can be a really vexing problem at times. I have been struggling with it from time to time. Sometimes you have to be really tough and it becomes easier later on. Writers are imaginative enough to find reasons to do certain things excessively even though they are losing control over it. And below is my latest personal mission statement for fighting this same problem.
http://scriptlarva.wordpress.com/2012/02/04/my-scriptwriting-strategies-for-2012/
I enjoyed reading your take on networking vs the time that needs to be spent working on the actual product. Thanks for linking to it. You confirmed what I am starting to realize. I need to find a happy medium as the social networking sites can be a huge time suck. Is all about the balance, I guess.
Thanks for commenting and good luck!
Reblogged this on johnnyjohnsen. com.
Thank you for sharing my post!
I’m glad you brought this to light. It’s definitely been a challenge for me to network, as an introvert. Although online networking is from the comfort of your own home, sometimes it’s just impossible! Haha. But it’s good to remind yourself that it’s really not that intimidating.
I think one of the difficult things about online marketing is knowing everything you put out is there forever. But at least one has more time to “think before you speak”. In other words, can make sure to get it right before clicking that “send” button!
Thanks for visiting!
I nodded along to almost every thought you shared here (except the Snuggie one haha! I live in the tropics so a Snuggie would suffocate me with the heat). I’m a big introvert yet I’m very ‘social’ in social networks. Aside from the fact that it’s easier to be less inhibited and conscious online, it’s also easier to ‘meet’ people which I’ve often struggled with in real life.
I find it interesting that Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook is a private and introverted man. So yes, indeed, you are on to something.
Oh, if only I could have Mr. Zuckerberg’s money! Yes, definitely easier to meet people online, and I don’t have to worry about words jumbling out of my mouth!
Thanks for visiting!
I know I have to do this….like having to get away from Google and onto WordPress…but I was not looking forward to mastering Twitter, or feeling like pushing myself into people’s faces with Tweets.
Then, on the WordPress welcome page I saw your blog…and you have demystified things to a great extent.
Perhaps when I get this platform stuff sorted I can get the book finished!
It seems there is a right way and a wrong way to “do” Twitter. If one goes on it just to send out endless promotional tweets, then, in my opinion, they become almost invisible. No one pays attention. But if one tweets witticisms or useful bits of info, then they are much more enjoyable to follow.
Good luck with your book. Thanks for stopping by!
I have had a Facebook addiction for about three years now, and I consider myself a selective extrovert, or I guess a selective introvert (It’s a glass half-full, half-empty kind of thing). Meaning I am a people person when surrounded by the right people, which is the problem. I have a tight circle of people that excite me and inspire me. It is with those people that I crave in-person contact and exposure. It’s the rest of the world that I prefer to connect with using social media, thereby being able to keep a safe distance, and engage at a time of my own choosing Mainly Facebook. I find Twitter to be a little annoying, and kind of scatter-brained. It’s possible I need to use it more efficiently. I started a blog here about a week ago, and I am enjoying the freedom to write expressively and throw it out there for people to engage, or not engage, at their own pace. (And it’s cheaper than a therapist for me.) I don’t think social media sites in general are destroying the social protocols, simply because I think they were eroding long before Facebook was a household name. Now it’s just a scapegoat….Also, in a TMI world, maybe some more introverts are not a bad thing….
I agree–I think the world can survive social media. It all gets back to instilling decency in your kids (unless they are born psychopaths; then you’re just out of luck…)
Love the name of your blog and its tagline. Also enjoyed your words of wisdom for your children in your Feb. 1st post. Very funny!
Thanks, I’m brand new to this so I’m just kind of feeling my way around it. Appreciate the kind words…
It’s funny how I stumble upon this post hours later a person asked my friends “why do you hang out with her?” and used the argument of me spending more time online .. reminding me of my brother telling me constantly during the hols to get off the computer. Both best friend and brother said that it may be called “social networking” but it’s actually being unsocial. I don’t agree.. but then I don’t disagree either.
And I’ve been called by others and myself a Sheldon too.. for more than one traits..
I’ve always found me to be an introvert but I’ve found out that I’m an “extrovert” depending on the person/people surrounding me/being with me. And when drinking coffee.
But writing will always be a means to expressing myself, if not the only way.
So ply you with coffee, and you go from Sheldon to Penny? I wonder what a glass of wine would do! Hopefully not Howard’s mother!
Thanks so much for commenting!
Ooh. I am hopelessly addicted to Twitter. I want to be a writer. This may bode well :0 Or not! Very well said.
It certainly helps writers omit unnecessary words, a crime most of us tend to commit. Thanks for stopping by!
Not only am I impressed with your writing, I am impressed that you took the time to answer all of these comments! I did not read them all , so please forgive me if this is redundant. Although I have a Twitter and a FB page, they are sadly neglected and I am not sure how to be better at self promotion. One struggle I have with Twitter is that I have no idea how to actually communicate with people who may actually be interested in my blog. I have not figured out how to get onto lists or into sub sets where I do not have to read all of these auto-promotional tweets to really tweet back and forth with anyone. I am 45 — am I an old dog or is there hope for me yet?
What, you didn’t want to read through 294 comments?!
Twitter works best if you make lists of those who really communicate with you vs. just tweeting back endless promotional bits. The following link is what I used to figure this out: https://support.twitter.com/articles/76460-how-to-use-twitter-lists. Is very simple, but it took me awhile to go through all of my followers and assign them to various lists I created. You can keep your lists private or make them public. I made most of mine private as they are a way for me to really reach the people interested in having short back-to-back interactions. I don’t really even look at the main timeline anymore. I just look through the tweets on my various lists. Hope that helps. From one old dog to another!
enjoyed reading this. always thought myselft to be a very challenged extrovert.
Goodreading? going to check it out. thanks.
“A very challenged extrovert.” Love that expression! Thanks for visiting. Maybe we’ll cross paths on Goodreads!
Reblogged this on Purplestein and commented:
are you one?
Very true..I recently started blogging and my very first post spoke about something similar. In ways we are all introverts, we have that mental space where its only us and our thought, the space we never talk about aloud,social networking sites allow that space to come alive. We’d all love being introverts if we could afford it
Everyone uses words but not all can weave a story with them. I think writers are lucky. Being such an introvert is deferentially a gift! 
But your right about the time management. Lord knows I am in a committed relationship with my cell phone & laptop. I tweet more than i talk. I write (blog / facebook) when I can’t express my feelings! weird or what? lol …thanks for this post…got me thinking about a lot.
Yes, thanks to some wonderful apps, I can now stay connected to my blog and Twitter via my phone. Not sure if this is good or bad, but definitely is handy!
Thanks for commenting!
LOooved your post so much I reblogged it. I, too, am an introvert as are all the self diagnosed people reading this article. But have found, like you, that social networking is social.
Thanks for sharing.
And thank you for sharing my post with others!
Reblogged this on Clarbojahn's Blog and commented:
Authors are natural introverts. Aahh the testament. Look what I found on Freshly Pressed.
Thanks for spreading my words!
I like your entry. I especially like the Big Bang Theory reference. I am going to take a look at that checklist sometime.
Although I compare myself to Sheldon in the post, for my family’s sake, I hope I am nowhere near that annoying! Love that show. Thanks for coommenting.
I never thought of it that way, but social networking is made for introverts. No wonder I’m so into it haha. Great post!
Thank you very much, and thanks for visiting!
Lovely drawings by the way…….:)
Thank you! I have Microsoft Clip Art to thank for that. Such creative sources I seek out, no?
Ha! Enjoyed your post and blog. I can definitely relate. I’ve just recently started blogging and Goodreading. Like jmmcdowell (above), I’m not tweeting yet. But the blog stuff out there has been fun! Thanks for writing.
It’s funny how they are all interconnected. I’ve gathered new twitter followers from this blog, and vice versa. Even from Goodreads, but I’ve woefully neglected that site.
Thanks for commenting!
Excellent post. And it’s not just introverts who have a hard time marketing themselves (although I’ll admit they have a few more hurdles).
Yes, I imagine the marketing game is just as challenging for extroverts. But many of them are so great at those video blogs, something I don’t think I’d be brave enough to ever do (which is probably just as well; I’m a stiff tree when it comes to acting. Would not be pretty!)
Thanks for visiting!
Oh gosh, I can totally relate to this. My social blogger age is 2 months and I have met all the bad boys and girls without their underwear on, but unfortunately, noone worthwhile has come my way yet
Thanks for the chuckle, good to know I’m not alone out there!
Yes, you have to watch out for those exhibitionists out there! Thanks so much for stopping by!
Well I knew I wasn’t alone. I have personally done my best to get out a bit more when it comes to being online and sharing what I do. It’s hard to go from private to public just so you can been seen. But it is really the only way to make a name for yourself isn’t it.
So true. As I said in my post, I prided myself on being invisible online. So much for that! But I’m glad I took the plunge. Has been great fun!
It is good to find another introvert and to see how others spend their time
Yes, it appears there are quite a few of us out there!
very nice blog. congrats on the novel.
Reblogged this on Hey ROU! Let's Go! and commented:
“Thoughts easier to reveal by keyboard than mouth.” * *
Thank you for reblogging me!
nice one
Thank you. And I admire your brevity. Something I need to work towards!
You seem to be doing great at that
Thank you and thanks for stopping by!
I never knew I had something to say until I started blogging. Yay for introverts and for social networking! It is MUCH easier to speak up now.
So true!
I too have embraced social media, but mostly see it as a platform for businesses to build relationships and communicate with their audience. I’m reluctant to use it personally as (ironic as it sounds) I prefer the privacy that Facebook does not offer. I love writing and recently started a blog, if for nothing else, the reservation of whatever sanity I have left. Great post, thank you for your thoughts.
And thank you for visiting and commenting. Happy blogging!
This was an interesting read. I could relate…Thanks! The introvert vs. extrovert discussion rages on. Check out a post I did about it http://wp.me/p1cZEZ-mX. I think you’ll like it.
Loved your post. Thanks for sharing it. And who would have known there was a manual on “How to Care for Introverts”. Kind of creepy!
Thanks for stopping by!
Reblogged this on http://www.blogjelex.tk.
Merci beaucoup!
This is a great post for introverts who find themselves immersed in social media!
Thanks! And now we also know where we can turn to for raccoon removal. I thought I heard something scurrying across my keyboard!
I knew I was an introvert way before I took that test (I imagine my score was off the charts!).
I’m not a big Facebook user, as I only opened it to stay in touch with my friends overseas (currently, all of them). And Twitter seems like way too much to handle.
I’m such an introvert that I haven’t told a soul about my blog – not even my husband. My blog is my haven, my outlet and where I go to vent about, well, pretty much everything, far away from the judgmental regard of anyone who knows me.
You don’t get more introverted than that.
Oh, my, I’m sorry to say, but you may get the introverted award for the day! Just kidding, of course! There is nothing wrong with keeping a site that only you know about. However, now we are all very curious!
Thanks for stopping by and commenting! Looking forward to checking out your site
Well articulated post about social networking. I think this is the best one I’ve read on the topic so far.
I’m an extrovert writer, but I still was dragged kicking and screaming, I exaggerate, into new media. I did remember dreading launching my first blog in a marketing and media class. Now, I love it, but blogging and social networking eats up time that could be spent on writing novels and short fiction.
Thank you for the kind comment! Yes, I’m sure just because you’re an extrovert doesn’t mean you’re biting at the bit to get online. I often wonder how far I’d be in my novel now if I wasn’t doing all this. But I remind myself that blogging is writing. And I love it. And I’m having fun. So it evens out, I guess.
Thanks so much for visiting!
yay!!!! writers are introverts.
count me on that.
nice post
and congrats for being freshly pressed
Thank you, and welcome to the introverted writer’s club!
Social networking has been the best thing since sliced bread for an introvert like me. I clam up and am quiet as a statue when trying to promote my handmade jewelry in real life, but on the internet I can interact with complete strangers, answering all of their questions and even be the one to START the conversation.
While I think “real life” has rewarded the extroverts for their aura of confident and social skills, introverts win at the internet. And that’s not a bad thing, it’s our turn anyway.
Hmmm, I know a little something about clamming up and becoming a statue, so I feel your pain! Thanks so much for commenting!
I have tried the majority of all the links and sites mentioned in this blog. The worse of them, without a doubt is Facebook. In fact on my own WordPress Blog I have an extensive posting regarding that subject. Of all my experiences, no site, no individual can be the quality of the WordPress family. They are truly the “Greatest.”
I have to agree with you on that. I have found WordPress to be amazing. To think I was able to start up a blog, use widgets, add links, etc., etc. is a testament to their excellent help site. And based on your comment and many others, I am in no hurry to start up on Facebook. Of course, I say that now…
Reblogged this on Rameshnanda's Blog and commented:
It is a very nice blog to learn several thing about writing.I really love it.
I’m so glad! Thanks for the reblog!
I started tweeting for publicity honestly.
Facebook I seldom use, mainly for sharing things, or for AIESEC work, or for connecting with some good ole friends.
Writing a novel, aah. Now that’s something I’ve tried soo many times. Once I got to 10 chapters (1 page each LOL), but I did!
I actually spent a few days on another.
Damn, I was 14 then, and wanted to do a lot (not that I’m old now, 18 LOL).
Anyways, someday, I will complete what I started.
Meanwhile, BEST OF LUCK to you!
Thank you so much! And for the record, at the age of 18, you are far ahead of most! I also had many “novels” that never got beyond a few chapters when I was younger. But keep writing. It will happen!
I just got into Twitter again a few days ago. I tried it two other times, but I think that I approached it with the wrong idea in mind those times. I was thinking too much about it then. Twitter isn’t a place for too much thinking. It’s a place which directs you to other places which are the right places to think FOR YOU.
I like it better already.
You described Twitter perfectly, in my opinion. Not too much thinking there. Just hopefully something witty, weird, or strange! Thanks for commenting!
I’ve been thinking about Twitter ever since a commenter to my blog linked to an article about it. What you’ve said is pushing me closer to joining. I’m just worried about the amount of time it might take when I could be working on novels. (I’m already on Goodreads and WordPress.)
I have gotten much better with limiting my Twitter time by making lists of the various people I follow and taking just a few minutes a day to engage with some of them. Then the next day, I tweet to someone else, etc. I guess you could say I’m circulating the room and mingling, a great feat for an introvert! Thanks for visiting!
first, congrats on being freshly pressed! you have a wonderful entry right here as well as the attached article on introversion. i read through the entire thing and i just kept nodding my head in agreement: definitely an introvert myself!
being an introvert, i am not really that comfortable sharing details of my life in public so i keep my posts, “public friendly” in my SNS (facebook; got no twitter) ironically, i have a WP blog and that is where I share my relatively inner most thoughts. i don’t advertise it to my friends and family though. i am just not comfortable asking them every now and then to visit my site. writing here in WP is sort of my relaxation as well as an outlet. sometimes it’s just liberating to write about practically anything without having to think about what judgement they have or anything like that on my posts… especially if some are actually about them!
I admire you for being able to share more deeply on your blog. I don’t think I’ll ever get to that point. I guess old gals like me need to maintain an air of mystery. At least that’s what I like to tell myself. More likely, it’s because no one would be interested in my innermost thoughts! Probably because they are not that deep…
Thanks so much for stopping by!
You certainly are right. Us writers really are reclusive. Probably explains why a lot of us drink ourselves to death. That’s part of the problem with having a portal to another universe: it never closes and we can’t tune it out. I am into the Twitter and Good Reads, but I have refused to do anything with Facebook and that decision I will not bend on.
I hear you. I am not in any hurry to join Facebook. I’ll only do it if it proves necessary as a means to market my book. As for the “drink ourselves to death”, thank goodness too much booze plummets my blood pressure. It’s either drink or walk upright. I choose the latter.
Thank You for putting a link to the test to see if you are indeed an introvert. That was very eye opening. I’ll be pondering that information for awhile. I use to get invited to one party a year the same party each year. I would usually spend the month or two before the party dreading the idea of going. Thankfully I have not been invited to the party for a few years. I think they stopped having the yearly party.
I can relate so much to what you said. The nice thing about getting older is I no longer feel guilty about not attending or throwing parties. However, I do make sure my kids get to have their friends over and attend group activities. No need to confine them to my world! Thanks for stopping by!
This is a great post for introverts who find themselves immersed in social media!
Thank you. Love to see my post has drawn out so many loners!
I see I’m not the only one in the same boat, trying to set up an online brand identity prior to publishing my work. I’ve already set up an additional blog for extra media, and started publicising the up-coming release on my main one.
Been on Facebook for five years, Twitter for… Some amount of time. Google+, LinkedIn, Klout, About.Me, Gravitar, Foursquare, WordPress (better than Blogger). You need to be everywhere (and interlinked) to catch the largest audience possible, and you need to learn about how to SEO what you’re doing to draw in accidental viewers.
Getting Freshly Pressed is a big boon to your number of readers temporarily, but how many of them come back for more or subscribe is another matter.
And yet, all of this will not draw in anywhere near enough sales to make a living- even if you have 400 Facebook friends and they all buy your book, that’s still only 400 sales. You have to do more than blogging and Tweeting to get your book out there, because in all probability most of the people following your blog or your Tweets will already have a copy.
I agree with you completely. Furthermore, no matter how much you market, whether online or face-to-face, if you don’t have a product of quality, people won’t be interested. And even if you do have a great product, a lot depends on luck and timing. For example, I sure wish my book was released now instead of in 8 months (damn!) I am well aware that this current boon of readers will fizzle away, but what a blast to be part of it! Thanks so much for visiting and for sharing your insights!
Interesting blog find music at http://fashionsoundtrack.wordpress.com/
Nicely written post. I can relate to what you’re saying about social media. I was a newspaper reporter for seven and a half years, and we were constantly reminded about the importance of promoting ourselves through social media. Since I’m a pretty quiet guy and don’t like to boast, I found it difficult.
I wrote a post about my love-hate relationship with facebook a couple months ago. Here’s a link if you’re interested in checking it out.
http://slightlyreworded.wordpress.com/2011/12/21/its-complicated-my-relationship-with-facebook/
Take care,
Jimmy
I enjoyed reading your post–thanks for sharing the link. It confirms my intent of not needing to rush off and get a facebook account anytime soon. For now the blog and Twitter are plenty (given my benign neglect of my Goodreads and Linked In accounts.) Thanks for visiting!
Wow I’m impressed first with the fact that you commented back to all your comments on this post, thats alot of comments! Congratulations on being freshly pressed that must be a great thing to turn on your computer and see all those faces looking back at you. I’m not on Facebook but, maybe some day. I had a short stint on twitter. I’ve enjoyed blogging for reasons that you spoke about in your eloquent post not sure I spelled that right but you know what I mean. I don’t need to take the test to see if I’m an introvert but I’m sure I will have to take a peek at it before I leave. Again congratulations.
Thank you so much for commenting! Yes, it is a lot of comments to respond to, but people kind enough to read my words deserve to have a response. Even if it is one of my funny-only-to-me insights (poor them!) Plus, I am totally enjoying it!! (And I just used the word “totally”, something a middle-aged broad should never do.) Thanks for stopping by!
Wow, very interesting. What a GoodRead! Until lately, due to lack of time and peace of mind, I’ve never read anything on the net but your title caught my eye. I’m glad I read it. I found out something new about myself. I look forward to reading more of your blogs. Thank you & Aloha from PA.
Thank you so much! It is a treat to find so many people interested in this post. A gift, actually. Thanks for visitiing!
Well, i did take your test, although many told me that I’m an introvert anyway. Your writing is really good and I really like your thoughts. Sometimes communicating through social network is really useful, despite other people calling you a geek… I don’t like weirdos who live in virtual game-online world, but Facebook, myspace… this is convenient
Yes, I’m not the virtual game demographic, that’s for sure. Although, I did sign up for World of Warcraft to play with my son. Of course, just by saying “signed up for” in reference to a MMOG probably offers a clue to my games skills. Mostly my character just stands there, swaying like an idiot. Thanks for stopping by!
I like “from one life chapter to the next.” Enjoyed your post.
Thank you! I am finding this new chapter to be a real page-turner. Can’t wait to see how it ends!
Just wanted to say thanks for linking to my site and congratulate you on getting Freshly Pressed. I have to say I am reaping some benefits from that on my own site with a definite increase in hits. Thanks again!
I’m glad to hear that. I really enjoyed your blog entry and could relate. Thanks so much for stopping by!
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Good blog. I found the introvert checklist really interesting. good find.
Thank you! Of course, that counseling site is probably wondering why there are suddenly so many introverts clicking that article!
Life is more fun once you started to “LOG OUT & LIVE LIFE!”
So in other words, I better log off now and go kiss my husband and eat some chocolate. Sounds good to me! Thanks for visiting!
I’m beginning to wonder if social networks are destroying the ways we interact with one another.
On the other hand, it does help us get in touch with long-lost souls.
True. But I’ve also noticed that since I started this blog and Twitter, I’ve actually become more social. Whether I participate online or not does not change the fact that I’m a little Sheldon who likes to stay in my own little world. At least this gets me out of my head a little! Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting. Appreciate it!
I love how everyone says they’re not going to use Twitter or Facebook and then they always do. There’s nothing wrong with it as long as it doesn’t take over your life lol!
Yes, I had to lower that sniffer of mine a little and eat a little humble pie! Thanks for commenting!
very nice post
Thank you! I appreciate you visiting!
I ‘m working on my transition as well.
A little intimidating and scary, isn’t it? But I am loving the ride!
Beautiful piece and reading such weird things about writers helps a beginner to know he is OK at least–sharing something with some humanity! Great work!
No lack of weirdness here, that’s for sure! Welcome to our world!
For introverts, if you write better than you speak, social networking is pretty much the perfect means of socialising.
Ironic, though, that social networking in public (i.e. people always on Facebook or Twitter on their phones) makes people UNsociable – because they’re always busy on their phones, instead of seeing and talking to the real life people around them…
That was definitely me last night. Went out to eat with my family and spent the bulk of it on my phone responding to all of these wonderful comments. But that is not my norm, thank goodness. Usually when I am out, the phone is in the purse. Though I suspect the waitress last night thought I was one rude mama!
I find it funny that when people say introvert, they seem to suggest someone that is unsociable–I have had far different experiences. Introvert really means that you’re comfortable with yourself and don’t always have to be surrounded by people; when it comes to being around people, you usually prefer small groups–so how does that make someone unsociable? I think people’s perceptions are a little skewed.
Aside, GREAT piece:) It’s nice to see introvert used in a positive light and how it has adapted to our surge of social networking.
I agree. Most introverts are likely capable of being very sociable. But as with anything, there is a spectrum of moderates to extremes. As I mentioned on an earlier comment, people often are surprised to learn I label myself an introvert, because in a social setting, I have learned how to communicate with others (well, at least I think I have…) But that’s just it. I had to learn. And it takes work. It is much easier (and preferred) for me to stay among my core group of family. I just wish it hadn’t taken me so many years to finally accept this.
Thanks so much for visiting my blog and for your insightful comment!
Nice definition of introvert!
I just took the introvert test that you provided, & scored pretty high. Not a surprise, but it’s always nice to know that there are others out there
Yes, it’s a bit of an eye-opener to see your results, isn’t it? Thanks for stopping by!
the things i like and appreciate about twitter is finding information in a real time.. inter-borders, inter-time zones.. those are just so cool!
Absolutely! To follow someone instantaneously in England, Australia, India–you name it–very cool, indeed! Thanks for commenting!
Thank you for this! Nice to know I’m not the only one that feels this way. (Number 1 is especially relevant for me.) I pretty much abandoned Twitter months ago and I have trouble blogging. I have Facebook but only because I recently moved far, far away from my family and that’s how we can keep in touch with the time zone differences.
Most of my social networking is for my “day job,” and I don’t have a problem with doing it, but when it comes to my writing, I turn into the ultra-introvert.
Never bad to maintain a little mystery! Just as with anything, I believe less is always more, and that includes sharing details about oneself. Thanks for stopping by!
I think the advent of social networking sites has allowed some of us to express ourselves more fully than we otherwise might have. Where as I often find that I’m quite reserved in public situations, I’m never at a loss for words on my blog.
Isn’t that the truth? Put me in front of a real crowd, and I’ll clam right up; put me in front of a virtual crowd, and I’ll have plenty to say!
Hey , this one is awsome
Atleast I can relate to
Thanks for sharing .
Saakshi
I love all these introverts coming out of the woodwork! Thanks for commenting!
I can so relate. Very funny; enjoyed it!
It’s nice to find so many others who relate to the “leave me alone” mindset of an introvert! Thanks!
Reblogged this on reinaldobanh and commented:
For Human Beings, ONLY.
Thank you for the reblog!
This was a fun post to read!
Thank you so much. Reading all these kind comments has done wonders for this introvert!
Very nice post! I’m not against social networking, however, i certainly oppose people using FB just to say what they ate and when they woke up and so on.
I agree with you there. Unless you ate a brain for breakfast, I don’t want to know about it! Thanks for visiting!
This is just so true! Maybe it’s a good challenge for all us introverts, to get out there, and as you say, somehow you come across all these great, interesting people.
I still can’t quite bring myself to Twitter I confess – blogging is quite enough like shouting into the darkness for me now. But maybe in time I’ll convert.
For me, Twitter actually takes less of my time than blogging. But then again, I’m probably not as social as I could be on it. No big surprise there!
I can truly relate. How do the most of these people get anything else done? I just started blogging a couple of years ago but can’t force myself to get twitter or facebook—yet. Great blog
Thank you! I am a little worried that with all my online activity, my current novel will take many moons to complete!
I can relate to this post! Thanks for posting this. I am definitely going to try that “checklist”. Hope I do well *knocks wood* (;^)
Yes, I didn’t know whether to be concerned when I completed the checklist or pleased that it confirmed what I’ve always known!
“Deluding myself I hold anything of interest to others.”
I’m still trying deal with this one, along with time management. Some days are better than others but some how I keep on going. I’m dragging my heels on Twitter and I only post sporadically on WordPress, Tumblr, and Facebook.
Self-doubt always creeps in, doesn’t it? Thanks for stopping by!
Congrats!
And no, I just can`t tweet. Facebook yes, but Tweeter… that is just en energy sucker. And I just can`t figure it out what is interesting in following someone`s daily routine.
But I admire your creativity to use such way for writting:-)
The nice thing about Twitter is you can find witty and interesting people who have a knack for tweeting something insightful in just a few characters. Those are the people I like to follow. I worry, however, about my ability to consistently reciprocate!
Actually twitter can be much more useful if you follow the right people.
Based on who do you follow, your twitter timeline can be inspirational, insightful, news feed, or even full of whiners.
I couldn’t agree more. And making lists really helps key in on those you enjoy communicating with. Thanks for commenting!
congrats on being freshly pressed like your take
Thank you, and thanks for visiting!
I’ll say this – if your novel writing is anywhere close to the quality and enjoyability of your blog post, then I am definitely buying that next novel. All “Sheldonism” aside, I know exactly what you mean about losing time by doing something as simple as comparing booklists or reading Tweets – time vanishes quicker than my money in NYC, which is saying something. When you finish that novel, make sure you let us know about it, because if you can make a simple blog post this great to read, I’m sure you will create an incredible read. Best wishes.
You have no idea how much you just made my night! Thank you so much for the kind words!
Ditto!
Glad you agree! Love the bowtie. Including the one on the cat in your blog!
“Many writers are introverts. That is probably why we like to write. We are alone. With our thoughts. Thoughts easier to reveal by keyboard than mouth.”.. like!
nice post!
Thank you! I appreciate the kind words!
Awe Congratulations on being Freshly Pressed. The addictive nature of social Networking. Over time it does wear off. I almost have to force myself to update a status on Facebook. I actually have two Facebook s, one which I keep my acquaintances and people I network with in person on, and then those people who have been in my life my whole life (I separated them because some family can get really religious or political on my Facebook!) I have close to or over 400 on my networking site of people I have either networked and met in person or people who they have networked with or met in person, and want to meet me. I guess I can not say that I am not an introvert, and I do enjoy getting out and meeting people. Twitter I have an account and about 30 followers on, but I guess I need to connect the two, so my posts go both directions. Blogging is my favorite, although I still have not posted for two days! I have been deep in programming language and my head is not feeling a post! Maybe I should just post about diving deep into programming language???
Keep up the blogging!!! By the way if this is rambling on, I am sorry… My head is a bit foggy right now!
Peace and Harmony
Sallyjane
I have found that blogging every 3rd day is more realistic for me, and sometimes even that is a lot. While I really enjoy it, I know I also need to work on my novel or it will never get done!
Nice post! I’m just getting into this crazy social media world (except Twitter)…and it sometimes hurts my head! It is WORK for me to do the social networking. I do it because I know I should…and then I write to RELAX.
Well said. I hadn’t thought of it that way, but I think you are right. Thanks for commenting!
Congrats on being Freshly Pressed! Wonderful!!!
Thank you! I appreciate you stopping by!
I’m starting to build an online profile for my writing as well at the moment. And it has been daunting. But through taking the first step it has grown to tweeting (not just reading the tweets as I started to do as I always worried I would write something wrong) , starting a page on fb and now I’m looking at starting a newspaper on paperli. I still have those omg what am I doing moments. But then I take a deep breath, realise that I do know what I am talking / writing about and remember that I what I have to say is ok. My introversion will always be something with me but I just know how to manage it better.
I’m a big believer in baby steps. I, too, am taking it slowly. Thanks for visiting!
Reblogged this on Digital Activist's Blog.
Nice to hear!
Handy to latch onto your blog name …:) I felt the same way too.
Keep on writing and blogging. You’re having fun and writing well too.
Thank you! It is fun. Just hope I don’t get blogger’s block and run out of ideas!
This is the first time that I’m reading your blog. I have a Facebook account and considered joining Twitter. When I revealed this to my friends some warned against it and others were very much in favor.
But I think that getting to be in touch with people you admire or like, such as authors, is a plus when it comes to Twitter and is a tempting reason to join. Perhaps that is one of the areas where the marketing factor comes in?
I still don’t have a Twitter account, but who knows. Sites like Twitter and Facebook are also especially popular amongst young teens. My 13 year old sister is on Facebook 24/7, chatting with six different people at a time.
Anyways, an entertaining post. I find it interesting that you brought up the link between introverts and Facebook. I am an aspiring writer myself and I can relate to your example. Writing can be an intensely personal experience.
All the best.
I’m not sure when I’ll make the Facebook leap, but I suspect I’ll need to do that down the road. Where will I find the time?! Thank you for stopping by and commenting!
Reblogged this on The WizDyme and commented:
I totally empathize (sigh).
Thanks for the reblog! Appreciate it!
Love the Big Bang Theory reference!! And great post, by the way.
Thank you! Yes, I am known as Sheldon in my home, though hopefully, I am much less irritating! I do have my “spot” on the sofa, however!
“You’ll never catch me on Twitter.”
If I had a dollar for every time I’d yelled that. And now I’m tweeting my ass off. And, to be honest, enjoying it. What’s happening to me?
Congratulations on being Freshly Pressed!
Thank you! I loved your blog post from today. And such a catchy title!!
Ah, social networking! It’s going of style, so says my 14 year old daughter, but bloggers and would-be novelists need to do it anyway! What do you do if you’ve written a saucy novel or worse, a novel with your friends in it, and you promote it via social networking and THEN you’re either shunned or sought out for all the wrong reasons?
Yikes! I guess that’s why I keep family and friends out of my novels. There’s plenty of other fodder out there for me to use in character development! Thanks so much for visiting. Appreciate it!
Reblogged this on Parwatisingari's Weblog and commented:
great post.
Thank you very much!
I certainly enjoyed reading this post and congratulations for being freshly pressed. However, I really felt the need to comment because I too am a network marketer and as unfortunate as it is I find it hard to network online. I also find it difficult to promote a product where it seems as if you’re only talking to yourself and no one else cares for anything you have to say or better yet they’re more interested in getting you interested in the product in which they’re promoting. If fact I’m actually on just about every social-networking site that I can think of and on linked in I only have a total of ten connections sadly to say the least.
However, I’ve grown tired of the entire process and decided to enroll in college where I can learn the basic foundation of branding myself and marketing the right way, although I was just denied out of that education three hours ago! I too spend countless of hours on the computer chatting with people and trying to befriend them when they’re only goal of being online is for sexual activities. Again, congratulations for being freshly pressed.
I know how you feel, and I’m sure once this “featured post” bloom wears off, I will be back to scrounging for readers. But what I’ve learned in this blogging process is how much fun it is just to write. Writers should write everyday, and even if I don’t get to my novel, at least I’m writing a blog post. Having someone read it is just icing on the cupcake!
Good luck on your journey, and know that you are not alone!
Congratulations
Why, thank you!
As an introvert myself, I’ve always liked message boards where you can commit as you need to. Blogging is relatively new to me (Okay, I’ve been doing it two and a half years. But off and on between school.) but it still allows for the freedom that comes with thinking through what I say before I say it.
However, if you haven’t joined Facebook already, I think Facebook was created by an extrovert who was tired of the introverts having an upper hand in the online world when they don’t in the real world. So they created a social media platform is there just to remind introverts about how friendless they really are. For example, I have only 60 friends and I’ve been on there for 4 years almost. Why? Because sending friend requests is scary. And because no one sends me friend requests, and because it’s like starting a conversation when you write on someone’s wall. It’s EVIL!!!!! However, I do weed out friends too. (Speaking of which, I need to do that….)
I think that is why I’ve been reluctant to join Facebook. I say it’s because I don’t have time (which is certainly true), but I also don’t like the idea of having to “friend” people. It is a little scary! As it is, I only have 13 Goodread friends. I really should work on that…
Thanks so much for visiting and commenting!
Really enjoyed your post and related to it a lot! What I don’t understand about myself is that I’m completely fine with communicating on the internet but when it comes to returning or answering a phone call I’m so reluctant. I guess my introversion is heightened with real time contact, at least with facebook I can wait hours, days, weeks to respond to someone.
I hear you on the phone calls! I have never liked answering the phone or holding conversations on it (just ask my long-distance family members how good I am about that!). I finally just realized this is who I am, take it or leave it. Caller ID and email are two of my favorite inventions!
Absolutely love this blog – thank you for a delightful afternoon read.
And thank you for making my day! (You and many other very kind souls!)
Great insight. I had not thought of how easy it is to network online, but the difficulties I am met with face to face.
I envy those who excel at the face-to-face networking. It will never come naturally to me!
I bet your not a loner anymore now that your freshly pressed
Ne sure to check out my blog as well (enemyhq.com)
Not feeling too lonely today, no. But alas, I know all good things must come to an end eventually (probably sooner rather than later in my case!)…
Mindslam’s (mindslam.wordpress) writing prompt today was to share your thoughts on social media. What a surprise it would be for Jason if you share this there.
I think social networking is really designed more for the gregarious, outgoing and opinionated, but something inexplicable happens to us introverts when you give us a keyboard and a cocoon. We secretly desire to be those people, and the electronic interface immunizes us from the traits that normally keep us bottled up.
Interaction is really a big emotional deal for me, because I thrill at suddenly being able to be the focus of attention or to feel for a moment like I have 50 friends, but I’m devastated when it goes wrong. Like if I was Pressed, I would be ecstatic and then three days later I’d be suffering from depression because all the attention went away.
I was just like you, though. Convinced that I would never have a Facebook account or a blog… and well, I’m still not Twitterpated. Anyway, you were the only thing on Freshly Pressed that really caught my eye today. Bright thoughts well written. Great post!
Thank you so much for the kind words! Being the featured post is certainly flattering, but, like you, I have no misconceptions that the wonderful site stats will hold. I’m sure I’ll be hang dog in a few days, but I’ll enjoy it while it lasts!
Congratulations on being Freshly Pressed!
I feel so wrinkle-free now! Thank you!
This was a fun read. Love your writing style. Thanks for sharing!
Why thank you!
I’ve never really gotten into the Twitter thing, and my GoodReads hasn’t been updated in a while. I do like to blog though even though I can’t see how what I have to say is interesting.
Good luck with your novel!
- Kali
It is difficult to imagine anyone would be interested in what I have to say, but I guess that is the old self-doubt we all harbor. Thanks for commenting!
Social networking cannot be avoided- even my grandparents recently joined Facebook at the ripe old age of 70!
How true. My mother is thinking about taking up tweeting, and she and her husband are always checking their Blackberries!
Welcome to the wonderworld that is, social networking. Congrats on being Freshly pressed!
Thanks! Is pretty cool but also a little freaky to suddenly have so many site hits. Especially for an introvert!
I have insomnia, and spent most of my nights awake reading posts on terribleminds.com or writing. Sometimes it’s really the only form of entertainment, and God knows that everyone hates having nothing to do.
So far, I’ve never faced the problem of insomnia. But if I ever do, I now know how to pass the time!
I quite enjoy it; that’s how I got into all my hobbies.
I have a love/hate relationship with Twitter because I have an insatiable need to say more than what they allow haha. I’m an old school blogger/windbag. But even though I embrace the new social networking mediums and use them quite often, I’m still an old fuddy duddy who came of age long before the internet took the world by storm and prefer one-on-one real life interaction.
I hear you! But yet, I can’t even imagine how I survived college without the Internet. I can still remember goint to the library stacks and flipping through the card catelogs. Not fun!
I can totally relate, before I got twitter I didn’t understand it at all & thought it was stupid. There was also a time when I didn’t understand why people blogged. I have now done a 180 on both those issues. I love that they are platforms where introverts like me are able to flourish.
So true. I just hope my eyes can take all this extra screen time I’ve added to my life!
Oh I know. I also pride myself on my 20/20 vision, but I fear that may be in danger with my new found love for social networking sites.
20/20 vision?! Oh man, am I jealous! If it wasn’t for technology, I’d have coke-bottle lenses!
Cool Article!
Cool! Glad you liked it!
Great post! I found it rather amusing. I agree, I find that most people who call themselves “writers” – including myself – are introverts.
And you should see how long it took to call myself a “writer”! Not sure I’m even there yet to be perfectly honest…
Totally enjoyed your post! Congrats on being freshly pressed!
Thank you for visiting!
I’m so happy to have found your blog! I totally identify with being a social networking loner.
Thank you! We can be loners together (how’s that for an oxymoron?!)
Wow! A great post. Really enjoyed reading it!
I appreciate you stopping by!
I love to interact with people online on various platforms, although I’m not a typical introvert and I don’t use the typical social network sites.
Partly because I have the opportunity to talk with people who live far away when it fits my schedule, partly because I take more time contemplating my words when I write than when I speak. I have always loved meaningful conversations and disliked party chatter.
I definitely like the time afforded to me when I write compared to when I speak where anything could blurt out. But with age comes restraint, and I have learned better to filter my thoughts so that they hopefully won’t come out a jumbled verbal mess! (But I’m afraid they often still do…)
Reblogged this on Too many balls….and so little time and commented:
This blog made me laugh and was exremely familiar! Although people who know me won’t think of me as an introvert but I am. No really I am!
Thanks so much! And yes, we introverts can put up a good act when we need to. I’ve had many people tell me, “Oh, but you seem so social!” With age comes knowledge and adaptation…
Hey, congratulations on getting Freshly Pressed! I just noticed it!
great post! lol @ the snuggie!
Yes, I don’t think you’ll ever see me in one of those
Love this! You get me!! Now I just need to get over my ADD and finish a novel too!
Yes, thanks to all my newfound social networking, my second novel is not getting much action!
Congratulations making freshly pressed!
Thanks! Not sure how much longer I can answer each individual comment though! But it is so nice of people to stop by. Makes an introvert like me all gooey…
Hi Carrie, I am also an introverted author and, just to complicate matters, a technophobe. The publishing world has changed so much since I wrote my first novel, when writers just wrote and agents and editors and publicists took care of the business end of things.
The idea of establishing a social media platform was almost overwhelming. but I have learned that if you take it one step at a time, it isn’t so scary. It has taken about two months, but I am on Facebook and WordPress with a blog, Writing Between the Lines. If I can do it, anyone can. I still don’t have a clue about Twitter, but I saw you had a blog post about it, and I intend to go back and see what I can learn.
My first post was about making the commitment to establish a social media presence: http://naomibaltuck.wordpress.com/2011/12/09/berry-picking-blogging-and-a-piece-of-the-pie/
Thanks for writing a great post. I look forward to more of them. Naomi
Yes, I definitely am taking the motto “slow and steady wins the race”…
I’m a blogger and twitterer, but my Facebook languishes in a dusty corner of the Zuckerberg empire…
Nice post, and congratulations on being Freshly Pressed!
The true power of though is connected by short fuses used willingly to negotiate your freedoms bleeding life blood only to move agendas for world thugs. Freedom ain’t been free for 16 years as an old lady told me while grinning as if she was informing a great king of not being Nobel. She was toothless and proud of it. Pointing A trembling leak wrinkled finger voice cracking as she spoke. Over the bridge across the stream 2 miles into the woods the power of though waits.
Poem by James Scott
Hmmm, I think I might be that toothless old lady…
I am not a fan of Facebook, but I have really enjoyed Twitter. I am a firm believer that “brevity is the soul of wit,” Twitter really forces the writer to express their thoughts succinctly. It’s like writing drills a dozen times a day.
I am with you on the brevity. I have noticed that over time, my blog posts have gotten shorter. And that is a good thing for anyone reading them
Hey I too am an introvert and a writer. I usually score anywhere between 75-100 on introvert tests, and I’m cool with it. Like you, I have come to accept my nature. I also like social networking for the same reasons as you — you have time to think about what to say without self-consciousness. So, I relate.
It is nice to finally accept it. I spent too much of my 20s and even my 30s wishing I were more social and outgoing. Then it finally dawned on me, hey, this is who I am. It doesn’t mean I can’t be social, and I certainly enjoy other people’s company. But I function better alone or in small groups. No changing what your momma gave ya…
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I need to start Goodreading
And I need to start being more attentive to my Goodreading. I think it’s feeling a little neglected of late…
Thanks for stopping by!
Thanks for sharing your wonderful blog. Connie
http://7thandvine.wordpress.com/
Thanks for visiting!
In real life I’m kind of an introvert, but online and in social media circles I’m a bit of a bombastic pig willing to whore myself out to anyone willing to listen. OK, maybe that was a little extreme.
Congrats on being Freshly Pressed and for having an awesome last name.
Ok, now it makes sense. Up until I read your comment, I had no idea what was going on. Why in the world was I getting so many site hits?! So thanks for clueing me in. My sons’ always say I can be a little slow on the uptake!
And I am always happy to listen to bombastic pigs, especially those with the same last name as my own…
Writing and illistrateing for me is so far a thankless and profitless
endever, but hey I stopped kidding myself and realised that no one knew I
existed. So I got a blog – the only problem with blogging is people think it
is a journal, and to some I guess it is, but for me it is more of a showcase for
whatever talent I may posses. I’ve written several novels, one of which is on
display for any who may wish to read it – I am currently attempting to
illistrate it, and have several frames from a childrin’s book I am curently
seeking to publish, the blog-o-sphere is a valueable distributer artists of
the past would have killed for, and I am glad it’s finnally here.
Congratulations on your completed novels! And it’s true, writers need the online arena. Even those who are traditionally published need to do much of their own marketing. Unless you’re Stephen King or JK Rowling, of course!
Excellent points, yet I’m still resisting, but hey – it is the world. Thanks for the suggestions.
I hear you. I put the most emphasis on my blog. I’m still not convinced Twitter will be the best use of my time, but it is fun to connect with others in very short sound bites!
Oh the other hand, I’m considering Twitter, but not to Tweet, but to receive information from selected sources. But at this point, it’s only a possibility.
“Many writers are introverts. That is probably why we like to write. We are alone. With our thoughts. Thoughts easier to reveal by keyboard than mouth.”- This part was so beautiful and true. Even I feel the same. I always ask the question to my self “Why I love to write?” And you gave answer to that question through this post. Best wishes to you!
Thanks so much! Looking forward to checking out your blog as well as those of all these other kind souls who have stopped by and commented on my post. Happy writing!
It will be my pleasure to see you in my blog. Happy Writing!
Having just starting blogging and tweetie, it was great to find a kindred spirit. I too avoided all of it for many of the same reasons! Great blog, and I love love your idea of never cutting your bangs! Great posts! Look forward to many more!
Thanks so much for stopping by! I look forward to checking out your site as well. (By the way, my children think I should be Carrie “Sheldon” Rubin, as I alluded to above, so we must be kindred spirits!)
It even gets better…
http://beyondthefaceoffacebook.wordpress.com/2011/11/17/dear-chronic-daters/
Great post. I, too, am an converted social networker, though only on Twitter. I find Facebook annoying. I’m also an anomaly in that I enjoy being in front of people or around them, but not necessarily with them, and certainly not all the time. I’ve always somewhat envied those people who have parties and weekends with groups of people to celebrate birthdays. That was never me. As a musician, spending hours alone in a practice room when other students were partying probably didn’t help. But social networking has helped me connect, even through some hard times when I tend to isolate in real life. So I definitely see the value of social networking for non-business purposes and, bonus, it has encouraged me to write which is a great benefit. Thanks for posting.
I think people might be surprised at how many musicians, actors, and other performers are truly introverts. As you point out, some people enjoy being in front of others, but not always with them.
This post speaks to my heart today. I am torn about staying engaged with my blog (I do not tweet or do anything but blog) which has been enormously helpful to me, and managing my own private writing. For me blogging is so extremely addictive, I find myself spending so much time reading posts and commenting. I also worry that the social aspect of blogging is watering down my vision. If I’m honest here, I will say it most certainly has. Many consider me open on my blog, but I’m not nearly as open as I would be if I were writing for just a handful of other writers who were also committed to a depth of openness in their writing.
The conflict for me boils down to honesty vs. belonging. When I write on my own without sharing it with the masses, my writing is more pure and honest, something I personally value. When I write on my own I am free to take risks. To me social media does not encourages conformity. At least that’s been my own personal experience. As an artist I think social media can be a tricky world to negotiate. We should be aware of the downside to creating “from the heart” while others are looking. The pressence of onlookers changes what is born, transforms it . To me, that’s concerning.
I meant it encourages (the not was an accident)
You make excellent points. For me, knowing my blog can be read by anyone out there certainly puts my “filter” on. I guess every blogger has to decide what he or she is comfortable with and then try to stick to their own personal “guidelines”. Some will feel more open than others.
Thanks so much for your thoughtful comments!
Never really considered myself an introvert but the more I learn about it the more I realize that I probably am. I’m happy I found your blog today!
Thanks so much for stopping by!
We are in the same social network universe. I didn’t want to do it. I resisted and resisted. It totally interferes with my writing time. But now, I’m actually starting to enjoy this process of hopping from blog to blog and reading about what the outside world is up to. How about that… other people besides me really do have interesting things to say….
It is fun, isn’t it? I just need to learn when to turn it off!
Thanks for checking out my site!
I find your writing compelling, however, I read the introversion article, and boy was that depressing. Not that being an introvert is bad, but because I am completely opposite, I love people, I enjoy outings and I crave the next exciting event. The depressing part is that I am surrounded by introverts! My boyfriend and friends are all so dreadfully boring. They want to read and sit alone on their spare time. They have begun to rub off on me, I find myeslf depressed and lacking motivation to connect with others and go out to do activites that I used to enjoy. Social Netwoking is a great tool for business, friendship, and education, however, its a double edge sword. Have we all become somewhat introverted because of it? People don’t know how to interact in person anymore. They show no real tone or excitement, and live vicariously through others. So I ask, Has social networking made society Less Social?
That is an interesting concept, and one I suspect there is some truth to, particularly in the idea that being online may allow introverts to avoid more live interaction. But luckily, most of us have real lives full of real people, and thus must continue to fine tune our social prowess. I envy extroverts, and I think you’ll have to seek out more of those like you, because it would be a shame to see that gift muted!
Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting. Appreciate it!
Best wishes to you and your novel!
Thank you!
With you on the whole social networking topic and enjoyed this blog tremendously. I blog as a form of talking to myself and keeping a record of a learning process and tweet in order follow various mags, miniaturists and family. Otherwise, all the pop-up pressure applied by Google mail et al that I generally use for basic activities, make me hot and bothered with their intrusiveness. Not particularly a weirdo, but don’t need the outer noise of the party/playground when there’s plenty to do and think and read and write and see and cook and design and talk about face to face and …
Oh, I completely agree with you! I’m pretty sure pop-ups are going to trigger a cerebral event in me sooner or later!
Thanks so much for visiting and commenting!
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I read somewhere recently that writers aren’t necessarily good speakers – we have a great facility with the written word (my partner calls me his wordsmith) – but not that hot when called upon to explain something verbally. In work and social situations I mumble, sentences muddle themselves and I don’t express myself very well at all. Why is that? Do I care? Give me a blank page any day.
Thanks for the follow, I’ll be coming back here again
So true. I’m pretty sure I come off as two different people when I speak vs. when I write. Must be missing a couple neurons in my speech center!
Thanks for stopping by!
“Budgeting your time” Yes, I totally relate to that. Not easy to concentrate on writing about hedge funds when Caitlin Moran is tweeting about a lamp she just found online.
Oh, how true! I really need to shut everything down and hide my phone if I want to get any novel writing done. But writing about hedge funds! Impressive! In my economics-incomprehensible brain, that term would mean money set aside to trim bushes and trees
I love Sheldon! I’d most of all love a Sheldon and a Sprite (from the Sprite ads a few years ago). I got a perfect baby girl after my 39 week pregnancy, but I can’t help feeling slightly disappointed. (joke, joke before anyone reports me to social services).
I can definitely relate to most of these comments. I’m particularly struggling with Goodreads – it’s all very well joining a couple of groups and contributing to conversations, but when they already have 2000 members, it’s hard to make any kind of contact with anyone, so most of the time you’re just adding a comment that probably isn’t actually read by anyone. I have two friends on there at the moment. I keep meaning to try and sort that out, but as you say, the time management thing is the worse – I can’t get it balanced at all.
And the constant feeling of rejection – I wrote what I thought was a lovely comment on someone’s blog last week, and I don’t know if it was deliberate or inadvertent, but he went through and thanked everyone who’d commented either individually, or in a post naming them, but I was the only person he missed out.
Ha-ha, I can be so over-sensitive sometimes!
I just sent a request to “friend” you on Goodreads (as an introvert, I naturally shy away from that term…). I have not been a very active participant on that site and have few friends, but now maybe you and I can each add one more!
Thanks so much for checking out my blog and commenting! I look forward to reading more of your entries. Based on your comment above about feeling rejected by a blogger’s failure to respond to your comment alone, maybe you are like me in that after the rare social event, you spend the next 30 minutes rehashing everything you said (“Was it okay?)”. Drives my husband crazy!
Ha-ha, yep!
Makes you wonder why you do it, yes? Granted, some of my writings are more like rantings, but sometimes I feel I’ve done a lovely and constructive job for absolutely no reason…
Nothing wrong with an occasional rant or two. Although I doubt my husband would agree…
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I’m definitely an introvert, but I LOVE social media. To me, it’s the great leveler. No one on social media even has to know that you’re an introvert. And since it’s asynchronous — you respond when you want to — it takes off some of the pressure of face-to-face conversations. And we get to think and ponder and write before we hit the send button!
Certainly not a replacement for regular human contact with others, but social media can have a lot of attraction for introverts.
That is a great point about it being asynchronous and taking the pressure off face-to-face conversations. That means we also have time to really think about our response instead of blurting it out, which is obviously very important when online statements have the ability to live forever.
Thanks so much for visiting and commenting!
I think social networking works better for introverts. You get to define your own interaction terms, don’t have to dink around with small talk, and can always step away from the computer when the chatter gets too loud.
Well said. Now, I just have to remember how to maintain face-to-face interactions…
Tee hee! I very much identify with this, as you know.
Twitter on, sister friend!
Thanks for stopping by! Always appreciate your visits
Fascinating when views change – I’ve wordpressed this as my recommended article for today, hope you don’t mind – love the images
Thank you so much!
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Ha! I love the introvert test. I am in soooo much trouble!
But apparently not alone! Thanks for visiting!
I love Sheldon.
Social media seems to be helping with my introversion. I networked so much better at this conference than the ones a year ago.
That’s certainly good to hear. I would love to attend the Writer’s Digest Conference next year. Would be a first for me.
I’m not even sure what Goodreads is, but I have a feeling I need to check it out. Wonderful post, and one that I have been considering as well; I will probably take the shy and introverted angle. If I can make it through the post without mashing those words together and calling it shi-troverted it will be a miracle. Some of the greatest people and writers I know are introverts. A dinner party with us all might become quite awkward
Yes, it would be one quiet meal. Unless, of course, the subject was introversion. Then we all might have something to say…
Yes, I am an introvert, and my daughter is also. Guess I don’t need the therapist any more. Introverts are often misunderstood. Thank you for this information. IGj
It’s kind of funny, because after I posted this entry, I read a magazine while eating lunch and saw a book review for Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain. I think I’ll have to check it out!
I just heard about that book Quiet by Susan Cain on NPR! I think I’ll have to read it also.
Yes, I’ve already reserved my copy at the library!
And there are so many social networking options. It’s dizzying. I could virtually spend the entire day doing nothing more than reading people’s posts and tweets and trending topics.
I am SUCH an introvert. (But, I can force myself to squeeze out some extroverted tendencies…with enough wine.)
Ahhh, nothing like a little wine to loosen the lips
I learn much more toward being a social networking loner than an addict. I don’t know why that is. I like to think I’m a pretty social and outgoing person, but much like you did a while back–I vowed I would never “tweet”. I’ve still kept to that one so far
I’m surprised by how enjoyable I’ve found Twitter to be. I just need to watch myself so I don’t spend too much time tweeting and not enough writing. Haven’t been too successful in that department yet. Thanks so much for visiting!
Oh, I know I have to start tweeting at some point…. But I’m still dragging my feet on that one! One of my cousins calls it “a massive time suck,” and, like you say, when would I find time for book writing?!
But it may be time to look into Goodreads…. Although right now I feel like I’m still getting the hang of this blogging thing!
I’m definitely the introvert, too. And shy. I’m fine when someone I meet can get the conversation going, but starting one on my own? Oh, noooo. That’s hard. But I’m working on it. This social networking isn’t all bad, is it?
Fun post!
I do need to get better at time management–still working on that one. Haven’t become overly involved with Goodreads yet; am building it up slowly and still have much to learn! Thanks for commenting!