On My Way to Chicago
As you read this I will be either on my way to Chicago for SOBCon, or landed and trying to recover from jetlag, depending on where in the world you are right now. Hopefully one of the two, I am trying not to think of the unfortunate alternative scenarios!
I am excited and nervous, and not just about the usual long haul travel logistics. It’s a while since I attended any event like this, let alone speak at one. Pretty well out of practice. But, we have to keep pushing ourselves beyond our comfort zones and the program looks a lot of fun. There is even a boat trip with a gang of boozed up bloggers to look forward to. You can be sure I am taking my camera and video phone to that 
One thing few people know about me is how shy I am. You know when people are afraid of spiders they go to the zoo to hold tarantulas? And if you are afraid of flying you can book a special “fear of flying” trip in a jumbo? When I started my career I was so introverted I took a teaching course to get over it.
I went from being unable to order a big mac without blushing and stuttering to talking to packed auditoriums. I found I actually enjoyed teaching, it was the most satisfying thing I had ever done.
Now I am in a “feel the fear and do it anyway” kind of place. I will sweat and shake but get a big kick out of it too.
For this event I have decided against bringing business cards or anything like that. All the attendees get a copy of our ProBlogger Book, so I figure that is a more business card than I need!
The aspect I am looking forward to most is meeting all the speakers and attendees. Chatting virtually is great but nothing beats actually meeting in person, even if I fully expect one or two of the harassed organizers to want to shake me by the throat rather than the hand
For all the people attending, I look forward to meeting you, please do grab me when you see me! For those who are not watch this space for my conference report 
By Chris Garrett. Posted in News
Hi Chris,
I look forward to meeting you at sobcon and don’t sweat it…we’re an easy and fun gang to hang with. You’ll rock, no doubt
Can’t wait to read the book, too! See ya soon!
Tom
I hear you with regards to facing your fears about public speaking. I volunteered to read at my church on Sundays about 4 months ago and at first I was so scared I thought I was going to faint. But it’s getting better and I’m glad that I’m facing my fears.
I am just like you in the shy department. Have learned to conquer it partially. You’ll do phenomenally well, I am sure. Good luck to you any way and slay them. You yourself are your best business card (the book notwithstanding).
Thanks for sharing this, Chris. I know a little bit how you feel. And at least it will help you to get a ton of hugs and much-deserved kudos at SOBCon08. I look forward to meeting you there!
I hope you have a fantastic time, Chris.
I’d love to be going too.
Chris, it is funny you mention being shy as I said to my wife the other day that I would probably be the guy standing/sitting off on the side not interacting with anyone. I tend to be very introverted but challenged myself to attend SOBCon as a means of going outside my comfort level and meeting a ton of great people.
Looking forward to meeting you, as well as everyone else!
Hey Chris, my heart is with you- and I’m cheering you on. I won’t be there, but i’m glad you are willing to push yourself and step out- a lot of people will benefit not only from what you actually say, but from the example of being willing to do something scary, while being honest about it.
that rocks.
Thanks everyone, as you can see all over the web we had a fantastic time and it was a very supportive place to be. Here’s to next year