It can be really scary when you answer someone's journal looking for a trade. Perhaps that's why some people stay quiet and never apply.

We are all critics of our work, and when you apply to trade with someone its like putting yourself out there, exposing what you can (or can't) do to someone who you are interested in working with. Then the flip side is, [u]do they want to work with you?[/u]

It is kind of like asking someone out on a date if you think about it. [i]"I like you, do you like me?"[/i]

It's naturally and obviously worse if the person asking for a trade is really good at drawing. "Better than me" is a phrase many would use as a description here. [i]"Oh they are way better than anything I could ever make, I've got no chance, why bother applying at all?"[/i]

Why bother? It's a chance! A chance to get someone's attention, even their interest!
Sure the odds might be against you, and what's the worst that can happen? The worst is the artist responds like a jerk to you: [i]"How dare you apply to trade with me, you suck and have no talent! I hope you die!" blocked[/i]
I think we can all agree that no one is really like that, and what's more likely to happen is that you don't any response at all, potentially meaning that the trader saw what you had to offer, wasn't interested and moved on.

Sometimes you might even get a really kind rejection response back if the trader has the time, grateful for your interest, and apologetic that you were not what they were looking for at this time.

Asking for a trade, asking someone out, a job interview, a film audition, a school application - all these things have the potential for rejection, and with that comes learning and growing, not shrinking and hiding.

The nerves of just saying, you are interested in trading with someone can be overwhelming sometimes and very humbling - but it can also be liberating and empowering! You are going for something you want! Go you!

You might score and the trader wants to trade with you, or give you a chance! Don't blow it! Be grateful! Give them your best!

Trade on my friends!