I was struggling to come up with a topic for today's post, mostly because I haven't been feeling very insecure lately. I got through the A to Z challenge, I'm almost done with the second draft of my book, and I'm nervous about leaving my job, but not really insecure. I know in my gut I'm making the right decision. It's still almost a month away so I'm trying not to think about it too much yet.
I've been thinking about how close I am to trying to get my book published. Once the second draft is done, I'll go through another round of edits, but not a rewrite this time, so it probably won't take very long. There's just a few things to iron out, I think (of course, when I hear back from my readers I may find out how wrong I am...). And then I'll start querying. It's exciting and scary but I'm actually not feeling very insecure about it.
Here's the thing--I'm not scared of rejection. Not at all. I've already been told by someone that my story is horrible, and I really don't think any agent would respond that way (as long as I do my research and submit to the right agents, of course). I've already been hit with the worst, so even rejection would be better than that. I also accept that fact that I'm going to be rejected. Lots of times. I see it as part of the process. It's going to happen and it's just something to get through.
My lack of insecurity is actually what worries me. What if I'm wrong about how I feel? What if that first rejection comes and I just break down? What if I can't handle it? Is my lack of fear a good thing or is it setting me up to fall even harder? I guess I won't know until it actually happens.
I love your title! But I don't think you have anything to worry about... the more we practice any skill, the more confident we become. It's just a sign of growing as a writer....I hope to get to that point, too... eventually....
ReplyDeleteI think it's a good thing not to be insecure. You sound as though you understand what could happen, and you're prepared for rejection, which many writers fail to do. I think you're gonna be just fine!
ReplyDeleteI'm not scared of rejection anymore either. I was when I first started, but now it's just part of the job. I believe my series will get published and each rejection is just getting me closer to the right agent for me. :)
ReplyDeleteIf you're not feeling insecure. Embrace it! I think the fact that you're not insecure is a very good thing and seems something good will happen. :)
Confidence is a good thing! Bottle it and store it on a shelf for when those times insecurity hits.
ReplyDeleteYou've mentioned before about leaving your job. Maybe that's helping you feel more secure, because you're taking charge of your life. :)
You have a great attitude. Don't over think it. I wish you the very best of luck with your new book.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the support.
Heather
For some reason I expect rejection every time I submit. I'm always hopeful and I guess that's why I bother. So far two shorts have been accepted. Yay me.
ReplyDeleteLet the editor/agent be the judge and keep putting your work out there. You'll get a bite.
Anna from Shout with Emaginette
oh it's so perfectly writerly to be insecure about not being insecure!! LOL. I so hear you, but honestly, enjoy it. Trust yourself. If you start feeling insecure at some point, so be it, and if not, you'll spare yourself a lot of worry!
ReplyDeleteI think your insecurity about being secure is good. lol This writing business is a vicious cycle of emotions.
ReplyDeleteWell you've got a pretty good focus now, but the key is realizing agents are a great deal kinder than reviewers will be. Keeping that in mind, go forth and do your best, eh?
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