"Build and they will come" - I wish..

I'm currently in the thick of developing a new project, and I've hit a personal challenge that I anticipated but am still grappling with. The crux of the issue is this: I need to start building interest and gauging potential for my project, but I'm struggling with the aspect of community engagement and communication.

Here's where I'm at: I know I need to use different platforms to attract attention to my work, but I find the process of talking to people (or even just posting to an empty void) to be daunting. Posting is manageable until the anxiety kicks in with each new notification, reminding me that I have to interact and respond.

I'm reaching out to this community with a couple of open questions:

1. Small-scale Engagement Tools: Are there specific tools or platforms that you've used to start small, yet effectively engage with an audience? I'm looking for something that can help me validate my project and gradually build my confidence.

2. Effective Communication Templates: When posting about your project, have you used any templates or strategies to capture interest without coming across as overly promotional or salesy?

Currently, I'm embracing the "building in public" approach. However, I'm concerned that without improving my writing and communication skills, I'll continue to feel like I'm speaking into the void. This also affects my ability to build a community, which is crucial for getting feedback and knowing if I'm on the right track.

I would greatly appreciate any insights, experiences, or advice you could share. Every comment is a learning opportunity for me to make the necessary adjustments and improve my approach.

Looking forward to your responses and thank you in advance!