Networking can be a bridge to other connections, new ideas and even friendship. Crossing the ”bridge” of networking can take you in so many different directions. While the technology available is stunning, for people like me who are deaf and legally blind, it’s time consuming and down right tedious.
Crossing the bridge of networking is rewarding even if it takes me much longer. Over the years I’ve done networking for multiple reasons. Over 20; years ago I made connections on a Tae Bo (kickboxing) exercise message board and I am still in contact with some of these people. We have shared many laughs and tears over the years, encouraging one another to stay healthy. In 2006 I began networking to find others who have Advanced Bionic cochlear implants like me. I’ve made amazing connections with people and we share encouragement, tips and strategies of living with this technology.
This past year I have been networking for an entirely different reason. Last May (2021) I released my autobiography “Rooted by the Water”. The bridge of networking took on a whole different meaning. I’ve made connections with other authors and many are self published through Amazon. I published through Westbow Press. There has been and continues to be so much to learn. I thought publishing my book would be the hardest part, but little did I know, it was only the beginning. Being an unknown deaf/ legally blind author makes marketing incredibly frustrating. Networking with other authors gives me tips and ideas to approach and use different tools and social medias. This can be so time consuming and sometimes I’ve got to put it aside or else burnout.
Last week I found a GEM! This bridge of networking led to a new new friendship. What makes it so amazing is that she is a deaf/ legally blind author like me. While our diagnosis are different, she has a cochlear implant and is also legally blind. We plan to brainstorm ideas to share and encourage each other. I’m beyond excited.
Years ago the local telephone company had a advertising jingle that sang, “ Reach out…reach out and touch someone. Reach out, call up and just say Hi”. Crossing the bridge of networking is doing just that, reaching out to others. Let me encourage you today to reach out and connect with people. Obstacles can abound but find ways around them. Making new connections and potentially new friends is so worth the effort.
Check out my autobiography “Rooted by the Water” available online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books a Million, Target, Walmart and Park Road Books. My story of learning to live triumphantly despite disabilities, through Gods strength and lessons He has taught me along the way. Be inspired!
Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com
rootedbythewater.blog 