I’m Not The Only One – #BehindTheAuthor

It’s been a while since I’ve blogged, but I decided to sign up for a bi-weekly writing prompt. It’s difficult to keep up with everything when the characters are screaming, but this looks like fun and I hope that it gives a little more insight into who I am–my thoughts and ideas.

The first prompt is titled “I’m Not The Only One” and I think it so apt for being an author.

Many times on this journey I’ve seen posts on my timeline of authors who say they feel ‘alone’ or they don’t know if this is something they should be doing. Any career where you put yourself ‘out there’ for people to comment and criticize your work is difficult. Also, when you’re wading through a sea of writers who want to get there name out there as well, it can be disheartening. But, then again, nothing in life is easy.

We find ourselves time and again in that mindset that we are alone in this, but we’re not. I’ve learned not to be scared to reach out and ask for help. Don’t be fearful of other’s because the worst they can say is no. And once you realize you’re not the only one then it becomes easier.

It’s so easy to stay behind the scenes. I mean, come on, let’s be honest… Isn’t it easier talking to your characters than reaching out to someone who might say something you didn’t want to hear? We’ve all been there, and we may be at that point time and again over the months and years, but it’s good to keep in mind, after a year or two, you might be the one newbies come to with a question. They might seek you out for your advice. Remember, you were there once as well.

As we embark on any journey, fear and terror can be crippling. But having a handful of people you trust is like laying the cement down to build yourself up. And you’ll find, the further along this perilous journey you travel, the less scary it becomes.

I’m not the only one who’s scared of a bad review.
I’m not the only one fearful that the next time you hit publish it might not be well received.
I’m not the only one that feels frustrated when writer’s block hits.
I’m not the only one who reads, re-reads, and then deletes a chapter because you think it sucks.
I’m not the only one who stares at the blank page, watching the cursor flash at you and the characters have decided to play hide and seek with you.

Those are the times I find myself reaching out, talking to the friends I’ve made on this journey and finding the inspiration I need to keep going.

Repeat this daily… I’m not the only one.

[bctt tweet=”Remember, you’re not alone in anything you do.” username=”danireneauthor”]