Having the Courage to Get Out There!

Being a writer, artist, or any other creative spirit can be hard on your nerves. Most creative spirits are harder on themselves than their critics - and so, it takes a lot of courage for a writer to take the first step - getting out there and presenting their work to an audience. It has taken me 41 years to get the courage to show my work to anyone other than family members - and yes, this is probably an ego thing - because how many family members are going to come right out and tell you that your writing really sucks? Even when they think that, they probably keep it to themselves in order to spare your feelings.
For years, my Mom and Dad have encouraged me to "do something" with my writing - but, fear held me back. Fear of not being accepted, fear of not producing work that people would like, just plain FEAR! I have always been one to expect more of myself than other's expect of me - and, I don't like to present anything to the world if it is not perfect (which, I have finally realized is not going to happen!). But, before I could do anything, I had to conquer this fear. Or at least put it in it's proper place - which is in the background.
So, now I am ready - and look out world, because here I come!!! This has been an exciting couple of months for me. Here is a recap:

In April, I submitted my children's book to 10 publishers - 2 rejections so far.

May has been a very busy month:

Submitted bids for 4(6)(10)(14) freelance jobs/ heard back from one and am awaiting the results of my audition article. (still waiting to hear about the audition article)

Submitted my entry for the May Freelance Contest.

Sent a query to a publisher of a magazine - liked my proposal - asked for the story - submitted the story - he loved the story (Yay!!!!) - wants me to do a series - details are being worked out - this will be my first PUBLISHED article (Did I say, YAYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Submitted 2 Queries for articles

Submitted 2 Articles

Had an interview on the phone today with the editor of a new regional magazine that is coming out in June - received first assignment and if she likes it, it could lead to a full-time writing job with the magazine!!!!!!!!!!!!!

21/25 - and getting more exciting by the minute!!! and more exciting and more exciting!!!! I don't know if my heart can take all of this excitement!!!


This is a copy of a post made in one the best resources for freelance writers on the Internet - the Absolute Write forum. This is a GREAT place for writers to share ideas and encourage one another on our journey - I would definitely recommend it to anyone involved in writing of any kind. There is only one drawback - it is addicting!!! Here is the link:

http://absolutewrite.com/forums/index.php

So, as you can see - I am conquering that fear one step at a time - and it looks like I am in for one heck of a ride! Or, at least I hope so!

So, for all creative persons in the world - I would like to send out a challenge - push that little voice that is holding you back into the back ground - and get out there and show the world what you've got!!! I, for one, look forward to seeing it!

Have a happy and creative day!

Cindy