Wednesday 7 December 2016

Insecure Writer's Support Group (Dec)


It's time for the final IWSG posting of 2016! Where did it go? I hope it's been a good writing year for you - not too many insecurities! However, if you're anything like me there have been plenty of bouts of insecurity and some gigantic dollops of self-doubt to keep you company over the last twelve months! Good job we've got the wonderful Alex J. Cavanaugh and the Insecure Writer's Support Group to keep us going.



I'll be honest, I've been struggling to stay focused with my writing this last couple of months. I was so excited to complete my last manuscript. I invested so much in it, emotionally and financially that I really thought it was my time. Everything seemed to be falling into place and feedback from my lovely editor and a couple of agents who read the full manuscript was encouraging . . . that was back in the early summer. A few weeks later I was delighted to hear my manuscript had been long listed for the Mslexia Children's Book Award, a huge achievement and another boast of encouragement that I was on the right track with this story. Sadly it didn't make the recent short list and now I'm left feeling like I'm no further forward. The illusive next step just out of reach.

I know, I know . . . patience is something writer's need in bucket loads. Along with thick skins and the ability to bounce back higher than one of those snazzy powerballs! Maybe I'm just feeling sorry for myself, but then maybe I'm allowed to - for a while at least. The thing is, I really want to shift this cloud that is hanging over me and I'm hoping the new year will give me renewed energy and the inspiration to push ahead with my new WIP.

All of which leads me nicely onto this month's question - in terms of your writing career, where do you see yourself five years from now, and what's your plan to get there?

Well, I'd really, really like to be a published author! The plan to get there? Keep going and don't allow myself to give up I guess!

Keep calm and write on!



Please note, due to work commitments today, I will be unable to respond or return comments today. I will catch up asap. 



19 comments:

  1. You WILL get to be a published author I'm sure. Good luck.
    Great post as always.
    Yvonne.

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  2. Believe it or not, I know exactly how you feel!! That little cloud likes to hover over us writers. But it will blow away and you will succeed, I'm sure of it!!!

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  3. Suzanne, you can do it!! The patience and perseverence are possibly the most energy draining part of being a writer - in my opinion. I'm still trying to get a handle on it myself. It's tough. Keep going!! Your hard work will pay off!

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  4. That is sure the way, just keep on going and don't give up indeed.

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  5. I think we all face setbacks and disappointments even if we are published. It's a fact of being a writer. But don't stay down too long! Keep going!! You've got this.

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  6. I'm sorry you suffered a setback, what a disappointment. Even if we know patience and thick skin are necessary, developing them is easier said than done! I have no doubt you'll reach your goal though, sooner rather than later. Hang in there.

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  7. I'm never patient. I actually suffer from impatience, so I know how you feel. It is frustrating. Keep your head up!

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  8. Sorry you didn't make it any farther. But who is to say that story couldn't win another competition or be placed in a publication? Keep after it.

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  9. This business lures you with glitter a lot and serves up huge dollops of disappointment right after. So sorry, but you're not alone. Every one of us has had similar experiences.

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  10. If you keep writing, you will get there. The fact that your manuscript generated such interest is proof of this. Hang in there and keep writing.

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  11. Writers do need patience and the ability to bounce back but I don't think that necessarily needs to happen over night. It's okay to take time to deal with your feelings. I'm in the same place you are. Lots of positive feedback from agents but ultimately they don't 'love it enough' to take it on. It's hard, and depressing. And that's okay. As long as we don't let it take over and make us quit. Hang in there!

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  12. Determination and not giving up are keys to becoming a published author. Best wishes on your goals.

    Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your family.

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  13. Hi Suzanne ... oh the ups and downs .. all will be well though. It is staying calm, and keeping on isn't it - your story telling is good enough to get to the long list - no reason for it not to get a little closer ... just have a happy festive season, dream up a few stories and keep on scribbling with intent ... cheers Hilary

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  14. I know what you mean about struggling with focus - it's frustrating to feel like you're close to something and then have it snatched away. But your manuscript still attracted a lot of interest and I feel its finest hour is still to come. You're a step closer to your goal - don't give up!

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  15. It's a very promising sign that you got so many full requests for your WIP, but don't put all your eggs in one basket. As soon as you finish an ms, you should start a new one. It often takes 4-5 projects for a writer to get an agent or a publisher. Bloodwalker is my 4th book. If I spent years "perfecting" the first 3, I wouldn't have gotten to Bloodwalker at all.

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  16. That elusive next step will happen when you least expect it! Keep going though, it'll be worth it in the end :-)

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  17. Thank you all for your kind words of encouragement and support. Onwards and upwards!

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  18. Yes! Determination. Patience, perseverance and persistence is the way to go! All the best!

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  19. Heh, yeah, patience is definitely a prerequisite when it comes to writing. So sorry your manuscript ultimately wasn't shortlisted, but I think it's amazing that it got as far as it did. You're clearly doing something right!

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