As you read this, I’m currently on day 2 of the biggest vendor show I have ever been a part of. Four days, 300+ vendors, and over 40,000 people on average are in attendance. Taking a financial risk to be a part of something so exciting is somewhat scary. There is a lot of time and money invested in this opportunity, but there is also a lot to gain. The biggest gain, however, will be the confidence I leave with. The kind of confidence I can only accumulate by taking chances on myself. With each new chance, I grow. When I ask myself if I am capable of something I think about the fear associated with the task. Then I ask myself what I am actually worried about. What is the worst that could happen if I “fail”? The answer usually isn’t as scary as I thought. Then I remind myself that on the other side of that fear is growth. And I hope I never stop growing.

Was it scary to decide to pursue my writing career? Yes. Was it scary to start writing a blog each week? Yes. Is it terrifying to decide the risk is worth the potential reward having a vendor booth at the Holiday Boutique? Sure is…give me a couple more days and I’ll know the outcome of that question. But regardless of what will happen over the course of these 4 long days, the courage and belief in my potential that has been gained was worth it. I’m telling you all of this for two reasons. 1: I hope this is a reminder to come to the show. There are so many amazing vendors and I think it’s an awesome opportunity to shop small this holiday season. And 2: to give you the boost to take a chance on yourself.

My mom sometimes says, “I don’t know where you came from.” As in…not that she literally doesn’t know where I came from HA, but that she doesn’t know where I get my determination and grit. That I am always thinking about what’s next and how can I make whatever it is that I’m doing even better. Maybe some would look at that last sentence and think, girl—take a breath and maybe a break. But the thing is, we don’t know how much time we have, and I don’t want to waste one moment. I’m not a unicorn in this scenario—thank you, mom for always thinking I am though! I am adamant that every single person has their own unique gift. That doesn’t have to mean a creative gift. It could be that you are an amazing motivator. Or, maybe you are an expert delegator. Whatever it is, I hope you can use your gifts to drive your passion and remember that the best bet to make is a bet on yourself.

I want to leave you with information about the show! Come visit my booth—I have so many exciting gift options to go with the books!

I hope you have an amazing weekend and as always, happy reading.

Holiday Boutique

@holidayboutiqueshows on Instagram

Overland Park Convention Center in Overland Park, KS

Show runs Thursday-Sunday