Lately, I have been stressing about my writing. I am working on a book, yet I feel so inadequate. I'm at a point where I can't read something without analyzing the writing--comparing it to mine. Every time I read another blog, another article, or a book I think, "Hey, this is good. But, I don't write like that." And then the panic sets in my mind and heart, "What if this isn't something I'm "good" at doing?"
I doubt myself. I doubt my ability to write. I doubt that anyone would even want to read what I write. I fear and I panic.
Maybe it's part of the process.
Then, I try to remember what brought me to this point--the point where I decided I wanted to write and how so many things just fell into place. I think about the people that do read what I write--and may even like what I have to say. I think of things that I have to share which just might help another person in some way.
I think of my "WHY" for writing.
I realize that it's not all going to be easy, but it is something I want to do, something I like doing. Do you have these thoughts about what you enjoy or are pursuing? I think it is important to not give up, or give in to these negative thoughts, but forge ahead, focusing on our goal, and keeping our thoughts positive. Work on and improve your skills. Take classes. Rely on God and, as I said in an earlier post, "Remember WHO would like to see you fail." I think that is the problem exactly...the adversary. We can probably do most anything we put our mind to, but Satan preys on our doubts, fears, insecurities and tells us we can't. But we CAN! We are children of God and probably have abilities beyond our knowledge that we can cultivate and improve and learn.
Go forward and do what you are supposed to do on this earth. Spread more positive in the world. Lift those who need it. Encourage others who are struggling to find their way. Don't doubt, fear, or give up. Be positive, learn, grow, improve and become who God knows we can become, and help others do the same.
© Wendy 2013
Wendy, trust you are in the right place. A writer is always writing and always re-writing. The process involves doubt because it has to. But turn the doubt to the writing and not within. This is not personal, it is professional. Revise the words and the syntax endlessly, but believe in yourself!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your encouraging words. I'm striving to write better, and get past the doubt--always! :)
DeleteI will read your book when it is done :) I am also working on a book (almost, have 12 of 13 chapters complete.) it is scrary and I get that no one wants to feel rejected, but it is all about the rewrite :) and honing your skill! Go Wendy-bird, go! I love you and admire you!
ReplyDeleteKar--right back at you! If you need a beta reader--I'm your gal! I really didn't think I'd feel so nervous about this process...but now that I'm here, well, that changes things!
DeleteThank you. I needed this today. I've often felt the same way with my own writing. You're right. Satan doesn't want us to succeed, but if we keep our eye on the goal, we can do it. Good luck with your book!
ReplyDeleteThank you, I needed this. I've often had some of the same feelings in my own writing. But you're right - Satan doesn't want us to succeed. We just need to keep our eyes on the goal and we'll be able to produce great things. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Good luck with your book!
ReplyDeleteThank you! Keep going and doing what you know you are supposed to do--do what you have been led to do. :)
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