Advice for a wallflower...

Hi! It can be a bit overwhelming at first, right?

Personally, I chose the games and writing exercises because I enjoy them and like slacking (while justifying it with 'well, technically I'm writing').

I have recently got in the mode of checking the New Posts and just clicking whatever catches my eye. Invariably I find my way to the games, but I usually say Hi to someone new or learn something along the way.

I would highly suggest checking specific threads for your genre, either to lurk and learn or actively participate. You cannot lose either way.

Wishing you an abundance of all that is good!

Welcome!

What worked for me was lurking in areas that interested me or where I wanted to learn more. Eventually I got a feel for the rooms and knew where I might be able to make a meaningful contribution and where it was best to shut up and listen. But then, that's how I handle real life as well. The games are a good place to get your toes wet and get to know folks without feeling weird about jumping into conversations out of your depth.

Based on your signature, it seems like you've got some experience, so you might pop by those areas of the board in case you can speak to any of the questions or conversations raised.

But in the end you do you. As long as you RYFW (respect your fellow writer) you'll be fine.

Hello! Lurking is a great strategy to start with! Flipping through the forums until some topic catches your eye, perusing the activity stream for interesting active conversations, reading through a whole thread that seems intriguing until you feel like you know the people posting in there and just can't help diving in...

There's no harm or shame in lurking, exploring, seeing where you feel comfortable, and playing games or hanging in general chat threads to build up confidence and reputation. That said, you will ALWAYS be welcomed with open arms for posting in the critique forums as long as you're doing your best. Plus, it's a big benefit to you as you learn how to give crits and what to look for in your own work.