So Opportunity Knocked…and I Waited a Week to Answer the Door
Are people just getting nicer in my older age – or am I completely oblivious to reality? I’ve recently been given a sweet opportunity that’s topped with more layers of sweet goodness—an opportunity that anyone in my shoes would love.
I met someone who believes in my vision and wants to help make it more of a reality. I met someone who sees it the way I do, and is offering help for the pure sake of art.
Could I ask for more?
I’m accustomed to reaching out and helping other writers, artists and entrepreneurs. But, I found myself second guessing the motives of this seemingly wonderful help-offer-er. My gut tells me that he is sincere – but all of my friends tell me to be careful.
So that’s why I waited a week before I answered his call.
It was the internet and links and cyberspace that brought us together – and I believe that’s where the skepticism was born. I did not reach out to the helper. The helper reached out to me via e-mail.
It’s true that anyone can send you an e-mail and ask you to meet with them. It’s also true that a lot of crazy crap goes on in this world, and you’ve got to be aware of your surroundings at all times. But good honest people do exist. And if you are wondering why someone is reaching out to you– it’s most likely because you deserve it.
I’ve spent years in front of my computer sending manuscripts, resumes and grant applications. I’ve followed up with 90% of the contacts that I’ve made over the years. And I still don’t have a book deal. The help-offer-er who contacted me was never on my list of people to call. I’d never heard of him.
I’ve also spent years tutoring writing and doing everything I can to help my fellow writers succeed. This opportunity may be the product of all my hard work.
Life usually happens like this. Stuff comes in disguise and not always from the direction you are expecting. The internet may be full of uni-bombers and porn stars – but it is also full of good people who would otherwise not have the chance to know you. So, if someone reaches out to you give them a chance.
Proceed with caution but give them a chance.
2 Comments
William
November 15th, 2006 at 10:13 pm
Good for you Gina. It’s true that you must be careful and always test the waters before diving in, especially when people approach YOU with offers.
A similar situation happened to me not long ago in the area of real estate. After I failed at a real estate venture and had made a couple of bad deals, a large firm popped up out of nowhere and took me under their wing, showed me the ropes and offered me a partnership.
Although I was skeptical I seized the moment. Now a couple of awesome deals later and many many deals in the works, I’m glad that I did enter into this partnership. Be careful-but don’t let fear hold you back from a huge opportunity- GO FOR IT! Great article and good luck with your pursuits!
Gina Laverde
November 16th, 2006 at 12:14 am
Thanks for the advice William… I suppose not taking the oportunity could cause me to lose more in the long run. If nothing else, at the very least I will gain experience.
I never let fear hold me back. That’s not to say I don’t have fear though.
G
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