I just wrote a very long, very angsty blog post.
Got a bit weepy.
Deleted the post.
Short version: First drafts are hard. And I have a terrible habit of piling every single, nagging concern/fear/issue I have with my writing/career/future into a difficult-to-drag-around massive-bundle-of-angst. As we all do, I suspect.
Michael talked me down.
Again.
Back to writing.
I’m working on the first draft of the Amplifier Series prequel novella. Dowser 9 is due back from the story editor (aka SFG) next Thursday.
I’m sure there is a lot of pressure in writing, especially when you are as successful as you are. It always helps me to remember that I don’t HAVE to do anything. You could take a break, miss a deadline, or stop writing altogether if you chose. And Michael would still love you. You could still eat delicious chocolate. You would still live on a gorgeous island with adorable chickens. Unfortunately, it is fans like me who add to the pressure by saying “write faster….I can’t wait for the next book”. So this time I will say “love yourself for the wonderful person you are and take the time you need”.
Very well said !
I second that.
Maybe some hot chocolate and yarn therapy while watching the sunset will help soothe your soul.
Always true. Unfortunately I am rather driven. Always have been. Moving forward, after a mini break, is always the best thing for my mental health/state. Feeling trapped, even by my own doubts and insecurities is much much worse if I don’t keep writing/creating. Does that make any sense?
I hate that writing makes you feel like that, but I can’t deny I adore your books! None of your anxiety or fears come through in your writing, and as long as you have stories in your head we will keep reading! I’m glad you have Michael, it’s important to have someone who calms and helps you – also the fact that he ‘gets’ you all the time is even better! Just know, when things get hard, your stories provide us with hours of escape and we would never trade that! Love you MCD!!
❤️❤️❤️
I’m glad you’ve got someone to talk to. As one of your fans, I’d hate to see you work yourself up into a tizz and stop writing. Your books are fantastic, worth waiting for and a solace to many of us. x
I can’t not write. In fact going too long between books, getting caught up in the publishing and marketing, isn’t good for my mental state either. 🤣
Please be kind to yourself. You’ve been churning out riveting novel after novel at lightening speed. We don’t want you to burn out! 🙂
No worries. I play as hard as I work. 😊