My Fears about NEST

[Miss Serendipity]

I am sure something along this topic has been out before so I apologize
for those of you who dislike seeing repeated threads. I just really need to
get this out & it seemed like a good time to do so.

I am attending NEST for the first time and its also my first gathering EVER
and no matter what I do I cannot shake my fears or my nerves.

I try very hard to present myself here like I am in real life and other than the fact that I am more cautious and reserved in person until you get to know me, I think I have done a good job.

I am pulling alot of this from my blog I wrote.Other than the normal fears that coming from gatherings I am afraid that once


It's been years since I joined this place under a screen name that to this day eludes me. Since that time I have made a lot of connections with people so I should be happy right? I get to meet these people so there shouldn't be any worry. That in of itself is a fantastic thing.

I am happy to be able to experience a gathering and to meet everyone. On the other hand, I am terrified that once people meet me in person whether I have connected with them or not their going to see me differently and change their opinion they once had of me. CRAZY I KNOW! I am afraid of being rejected, which is stupid because that happens in every day life all the time.

I know on many level I am over reacting, as I do tend to that. despite these fears of mine, I am not going to let that keep me from attending. I am hoping that they will fade after a few hours of being there already.

Getting this out in the open as well helps clear my mind so its not all bottled up. Thanks for listening. I really do look forward to meeting everyone. 🙂

- Chey

 

[BellaRisa]

Thank you for posting this, I know a lot of first timers feel this way

As you may know, I run NEST Newbians and corral all the first year attendees One thing I've learned is that nearly all Newbians have a vision of NEST that's waayyy more intense than the actual event, and that's what creates the apprehension and hyperventilating on planes and buses and in cars on the way to Philly. Then you get there, and after a few hours of hanging out all mellow and relaxed and talking about everything from Aqua Teen Hunger Force to what nail polish actually doesn't chip to which state has the best pizza you realize you're ok and people like you and you're having a good time . And the weekend goes on. I swear I'm not oversimplifying, that's what happens time and again So know that you're 100% normal to feel the way you do, bring a paper bag to breathe into before you get there, and prepare to have an awesome time

 

[Aimee]

Chey!
I am SO excited you are going to NEST! 🙂 It's going to be an awesome experience ... for the both of us!

I saw your thread. I know EXACTLY how you feel. I am feeling the same way. Bring rejected is an awful feeling. I've been rejected enough to know.. hah. I've never been to a gathering either ... but I have met Bella and she told me everything about NEST. People there don't judge.

And even though Bella said this .. a part of me believes that I will be judged. I'm afraid of how people see me in the forum ... the way I post and the pictures I post isn't how I really am, ya know? I'm so shy and have zero self confidence. And then when I start to think about it and worry that people won't like me ... another BIGGER part of me doesn't see it happening. When you have people like Jules, Derek, Cassi, Bella, Rob, Lyz ... the list goes on ... you automatically just feel more comfortable and accepted.

I guess I just want you to know I know where you are coming from so you don't feel so alone ... will you sit with me at the Newbie meeting? lol

<3 you Chey!

 

[CMartin]

Well said, Bella. Thank you. 🙂

 

[Miss Serendipity]

Thank you for posting this, I know a lot of first timers feel this way

As you may know, I run NEST Newbians and corral all the first year attendees One thing I've learned is that nearly all Newbians have a vision of NEST that's waayyy more intense than the actual event, and that's what creates the apprehension and hyperventilating on planes and buses and in cars on the way to Philly. Then you get there, and after a few hours of hanging out all mellow and relaxed and talking about everything from Aqua Teen Hunger Force to what nail polish actually doesn't chip to which state has the best pizza you realize you're ok and people like you and you're having a good time . And the weekend goes on. I swear I'm not oversimplifying, that's what happens time and again So know that you're 100% normal to feel the way you do, bring a paper bag to breathe into before you get there, and prepare to have an awesome time

Thank you Bella! It will be awesome to meet you. 🙂 I'll have to keep that paper bag thing in mind. or I could do some of my deep breathing techiques. either one should work.

*hugs*

Chey!
I am SO excited you are going to NEST! 🙂 It's going to be an awesome experience ... for the both of us!

I saw your thread. I know EXACTLY how you feel. I am feeling the same way. Bring rejected is an awful feeling. I've been rejected enough to know.. hah. I've never been to a gathering either ... but I have met Bella and she told me everything about NEST. People there don't judge.

And even though Bella said this .. a part of me believes that I will be judged. I'm afraid of how people see me in the forum ... the way I post and the pictures I post isn't how I really am, ya know? I'm so shy and have zero self confidence. And then when I start to think about it and worry that people won't like me ... another BIGGER part of me doesn't see it happening. When you have people like Jules, Derek, Cassi, Bella, Rob, Lyz ... the list goes on ... you automatically just feel more comfortable and accepted.

I guess I just want you to know I know where you are coming from so you don't feel so alone ... will you sit with me at the Newbie meeting? lol

<3 you Chey!

No problem Amy! I totally understand. and of course I will sit with you at the Newbie Meeting. just holla at me or look for me!
<3 you too!

 

[TklDuo-Ann]

Chey, I'm glad that you trusted folks enough to post this. That says a lot about the person you are. We haven't really gotten to know one another...yet. But, trust me. You'll have plenty of company that knows exactly how you feel.

This will by my 7th straight NEST. I've been to other gatherings as well. I always go in just a bit nervous about meeting new folks. Even though I love getting to know people, I'm naturally very shy and introverted...and les than confident. So, it's often a struggle to get myself into the mindset for it. But, I tell you from experience that it's well worth it. I've met some amazing people and made some dear friends.

My only complaint about NEST these days...? There's just not enough time! That's why you'll find that many folks tend to arrive early and/or stay late. We just can't get enough. Any play that takes place aside. We just love hanging out with one another...often being goofy, sometimes serious, always loving.

One bit of advice... Trust your instincts to guide you. Gravitate towards those you feel most comfy with to start. Let them be your buffer and help you ease into things. Don't try to take on the entire crowd all at once. You'll find it much easier and much less intimidating. And if you don't get around to meeting everyone there, you'll have plenty of company with that as well. There's always next year! 😉

See you in three weeks!

 

[Gothika]

well u have nothing to worry about what so ever no need to be affraid of being rejected everyone gets scared now and again and that is normal but i have met manny members from this forum at athering and all of them are very cool and there are so manny other cool people on this forum that will make u feel right at home i am going to nest to i am kinda nervious to but more exited then anything i think once u get there and start talking to people u will feel so much bettter so dont feel scared it will be a great time

 

[Miss Serendipity]

well u have nothing to worry about what so ever no need to be affraid of being rejected everyone gets scared now and again and that is normal but i have met manny members from this forum at athering and all of them are very cool and there are so manny other cool people on this forum that will make u feel right at home i am going to nest to i am kinda nervious to but more exited then anything i think once u get there and start talking to people u will feel so much bettter so dont feel scared it will be a great time

I am sure it will Goth! I suppose we all nervous at least once
in our lives! lol

 

[KrazieDog]

Well, I've met you in person, and you are pretty much exactly like you portray yourself here, good and bad, and that's all you can do in life is just be you. You WILL be nervous, until you are there and then it will settle down. There are some people going who know virtually no one there. You on the other hand have gotten to know many. Nobody will judge you there. I really don't think I've met a more welcoming group of people than I have at the last couple of gatherings.

Don't try to impress people or be something you are not, because you are fine just the way you are. You don't owe anyone anything, regardless of what they think. Just be Chey. You'll see, it will be fine.

 

[natural tickler]

I believe the key is just be you, that's all you can do. You will find out pretty quick the people at gatherings are one big family, and they out their way to treat you better than their own family, and it will seem like you knew them forever. You will find people attract to you quicker, and more genuine if you just be yourself...


the more true you are to yourself, the more true they will be to you

I have a saying, I'd rather you hate me for being what I am, than to love me for being something I'm not

 

[LeeAllure]

It's ok, Miss S - You'll have a great time 😉

And when I was in Philly last week, I saw this and took a photo for you.

Think if it as good carma... 🙂

 

[gigglemakr]

Chey........I think Bella summarized the situation perfectly. At my first NEST, 8years ago I felt as you do, and I'm a guy. I wasn't fearful for my safety, but I am pretty reserved when meeting people for the first time. I'm glad Ann (Tklduo-Ann) posted here because it was Ann and her husband, Drew, who befriended me at my first NEST and invited me to join a group for dinner. That friendship continues and led to many others over the years, so that today, I know I'm going to know maybe 30+ people right off at this NEST. I realize, of course, that with over 100 coming, I'm not going to know them all, but I'll meet some of them. I'm not as reserved as I used to be because NEST is a very comfortable environment. One person I'm looking forward to meeting is.....you! See you there. ......Joel

 

[kered]

Bella told the truth, Chey. It's ok and fun to be excited but don't let anxiety overcome you. This will be my third NEST and I honestly tell you that you'll just be talking to people like yourself who are just as excited as me to meet you too. We are just people Chey so no need to be afraid of us.

That goes for you too, Mammers. Nobody is going to critique your movements, hair color, or choice of clothing. They just want the chance to meet you, like me.

 

[Musicroxmysox]

It's my first one too don't be nervous. I'll take some of your nervousness being that I'm not nervous at all (both because of Chaneda, and just how many people I've already met.)

Anyway, look forward to meeting you at the Newbies meeting. 🙂

 

[Bugman]

Bella told the truth, Chey. It's ok and fun to be excited but don't let anxiety overcome you. This will be my third NEST and I honestly tell you that you'll just be talking to people like yourself who are just as excited to me you too. We are just people Chey so no need to be afraid of us.

That goes for you too, Mammers. Nobody is going to critique your movements, hair color, or choice of clothing. They just want the chance to meet you, like me.

What Kered said.By Monday you won't want to go home.🙂

 

[BellaRisa]

What Kered said.By Monday you won't want to go home.🙂

You mean *NEST Monday*, when we all loiter in the parking lot of some unsuspecting diner and BAWL for an hour? I swear I wear Teflon makeup to breakfast that day and I still get on the playing looking like Negro Wonka

 

[milagros317]

Everybody is nervous about their first gathering. Don't worry, you'll relax and enjoy yourself in no time at all. 😀

 

[tklee88]

I was SOOOOOOO nervous when I was having my munch, but as soon as I broke in with people, all the nerves disappeared and I never wanted to say goodbye! You've met kraziedog and know how freaking AWESOME he is! Just imagine him x 100! hahaha. I can honestly say I have NO inhibitions about NEST now, thanks to the munch. I DO understand how you feel though, because I've been there and felt that. Can't wait to meet you!

 

[slacker2114]

Thank you for posting this, I know a lot of first timers feel this way

As you may know, I run NEST Newbians and corral all the first year attendees One thing I've learned is that nearly all Newbians have a vision of NEST that's waayyy more intense than the actual event, and that's what creates the apprehension and hyperventilating on planes and buses and in cars on the way to Philly. Then you get there, and after a few hours of hanging out all mellow and relaxed and talking about everything from Aqua Teen Hunger Force to what nail polish actually doesn't chip to which state has the best pizza you realize you're ok and people like you and you're having a good time . And the weekend goes on. I swear I'm not oversimplifying, that's what happens time and again So know that you're 100% normal to feel the way you do, bring a paper bag to breathe into before you get there, and prepare to have an awesome time

Sorry, MamaB, but I just find the whole image of little you corralling ME to be intensely hilarious.

Best bet, in my opinion, is to go to NEST with no expectations at all. This way, you're not worried about what may or may not happen. It also helps you to keep an open-mind and will keep you from being disappointed.

 

[BellaRisa]

Sorry, MamaB, but I just find the whole image of little you corralling ME to be intensely hilarious.

I deputize you ginormous man-types for my Brute Squad to help keep order 😎

 

[Bugman]

You mean *NEST Monday*, when we all loiter in the parking lot of some unsuspecting diner and BAWL for an hour?

Yes,and sadly i have never been able to stay that long.I have to leave late Sunday this year.🙁 I need to know what kind of Texas themed mug you want for your collection.Only 24 shopping days left.🙂

 

[BrightEyes1082]

You'll be just fine, Chey. If NEST can handle the tasmanian devil that
is Team Jomanda, it can handle anyone! Can't wait to meet
you babe!

 

[luvgirlsfeet]

feeling rejected is one of 2 reason why i have yet to go to a NEST gathering

 

[meangry]

You can't control how others view you, so the whole exercise of putting a veneer on is fruitless.

 

[Adam]

You know, funny thing is I don't even feel nervous about attending the thing. Maybe I would once I was in the car and on my way, but it's a moot point seeing as how I won't be able to attend. Next year, I hope.