As writers, we all have fears, insecurities, and doubts about what we do. Being a creator isn’t easy and while it can be relaxing we put our heart and soul into our work. We keep creating though – writing, drawing, making music – whatever it is you do, you keep creating. Still, there are some days when you feel unsure about yourself and your work. So, here’s my biggest writing fear.
My Writing Fear
If you know me and you’ve been following this blog for a while, then I assume you know I want to make a living writing. I want to publish books, write articles, and do anything that has to do with writing. There are other things I want to do but haven’t tried yet because time and… well, I plan on too many projects at once.
I say I want to make a living writing, which means I want it for my career and make money from my words. When I say that, I don’t mean I want to be “rich” or “famous” I just want to live comfortably doing what I love for a living. I don’t write for the money, I write because I love it. Unfortunately, in order for me to write all the time, I need to make money off it. It’s kind of an annoying cycle.
With that, I’m most afraid of failing.
No, not failing to make a decent income from my money so I can write comfortably and spend the rest of my days with my imaginary friends. I’m afraid of failing in the way that no one will enjoy my stories.
I think this is a common writing fear – or common fear in general for any creator. You’re afraid of failing in a way that you’ll pour your heart and soul into something and no one will enjoy it.
The truth is, not everyone in the world is going to enjoy your work. Everyone has different likes and dislikes, have different opinions, and view things with a unique perspective. If someone doesn’t enjoy your work, it doesn’t mean that it’s “bad.” It just wasn’t right for that particular person.
I know all this and yet, I still panic about publishing my first book. I’ve put it off for so long because I’ve been afraid no one would buy it or they wouldn’t enjoy it if they did buy it. It’s a vicious cycle. It’s one of those things though that you just have to do it. Work hard and do your best, but you just have to get it out there and do it.
I was super nervous when I posted by very first Short Story Sunday on here. I felt as though it was a test for me. If people responded well to my short stories then maybe I could get away with publishing something. Almost seven years later, nearly 250 shorts and poems later, and I have met quite a few people – readers and writers alike – who have been very supportive, encouraging, and give me constructive criticism. I wouldn’t do anything different and I’m proud to be part of such an awesome community.
Accepting Rejection
It sounds like an oxymoron, but it’s good advice. As a writer, you need to be willing to accept rejection. Not everyone is going to enjoy your work, but there are people out there who will love it.
The fear will always be there as will the nerves, but it’s just something you have to push through. It’s a risk you should be willing to take.
Guest Posts for 2019
I’ll be doing something a little different in 2019 for guest posts. I’m limiting the guest post dates to 24 throughout the year – two dates each month. One guest each month (12 of them) will be normal guest posts where people can pitch a topic based on creative writing or reading and express their thoughts in their own article.
The other 12 guest posts, one for each month, will be under a theme. I’m bringing Inspiration Station back and 2019’s theme will be all about Writing Fears and How to Overcome Them. We’re all have similar fears, but we each have different perspectives on these fears and some might differ than others. I think this would be a fun topic of discussion so we can encourage each other a bit and learn we’re not alone with our fears.
All guest posts, especially the themed ones, are first-come, first-serve. I’m not sure how fast these dates will fill up, but if you would like to write a guest post for my blog in 2019, then be sure to send me an email as soon as possible.
For guest post guidelines, more information, and contact information, you can read the Guest Post Guidelines here. Any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. I look forward to hearing from you!
What’s your biggest writing fear? Let me know in the comments below. If you want to get in-depth about your answer, be sure to check out the Guest Post Guidelines page. If you liked this post, please share it around.
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