Writer, Agilist, Elder Geek
For some time friends of mine were saying I had to see the series "Avatar: The Last Airbender." I resisted this because A) it seemed like an anime-esque derivative series, and B) I wasn't overly impressed with Nickelodeon's other series. It seemed like a no-brainer to avoid.
When I finally watched it, I was impressed – an epic adventure, well-done, thought-provoking. Everyone in my apartment had a ball with it – and it also provoked some interesting discussion.
The summary of the convention ideas series is here.
So you want to add more professional stuff to your convention or conventions.
Do you have any schools, colleges, educational facilities near you? Then you've got a ton of potential guests right there. In short, start inviting teachers, trainers, and so forth to your convention.
First, this is an easy way to get guests – odds are that the people in question will have some interest in your convention subject, if only tangentially. This also means they may be willing to speak for free memberships, or just out of a chance to network.
Secondly, the teachers and educators may have great ideas. The convention may give them a chance to make new suggestions, do unusual things they don't often speak on or lecture on, or try out new material. You're going to the experts – who knows what they're going to come up with.
Third, the teachers and educators you invite may already have fantastic materials to use, hand out, or just plain sell (don't begrudge them a bit of cash here). They'll likely come well-prepared, and may surprise you and your audience – there's nothing like having people attend a simple lecture on, say, writing, and walk out with handouts or a book.
Finally, the educators you invite may be grateful for the attention and publicity. It gives them a chance to be recognized, make connections, and try out some new things.
So next time you're asking how to make your convention more professional, go to one of the sources – teachers, trainers, and educators.
– Steven Savage
Ever feel like you're both achieving something and incredibly uncomfortable at the same time?
I think we all know what that's like – you're facing your demons, building something new,writing that great story – and right as you're feeling great, you're also feeling a bit nervous, uncomfortable.
When this happens it's because you're stretching yourself, pushing yourself, and that's always a bit uncomfortable. But it's also a good sign – because it means you're going beyond your boundaries and limits. Like a good stretch you're limbering yourself up.
Discomfort, in short, is often a good sign that you're growing as a person (or a writer, or artist, etc.)
When you look for it, you'll see these moments of "pleasant discomfort" as you break your boundaries and limits. Keep aware of these moments as you can start catching when you're growing (which may happen at surprising times) and can take advantage of them.
One reason it's important to do what you like in your life and career is that it improves your tolerance for these moments of "stretching discomfort" so you don't back down. When you're driven, motivated, in touch, then when the discomfort comes its easier to power through.
Next time you feel you're walking on the edge? It's probably a good thing.
– Steven Savage