What a rollercoaster ride this book writing project is proving to be. The closer I get to completing my manuscript, the more nervous I feel. My mind is filled with trepidation. I know however, that this is normal.
As with many big new goals there is a certain amount of fear. Next Monday is the deadline to have the draft to my editor. I want it to be perfect, but I know it won't be.
I remind myself that I'm a beginner at this. It won't be perfect.
I remind myself also, that there is no such thing.
I remind myself that years ago I made the decision to strive for excellence, not perfection.
Naturally, I don't have the capability of the famous authors I read. The more I read, the more I notice that.
What I'm afraid of, is people laughing. I'm anxious that I will be criticised. It has happened before. I tell myself that my worst fear has already happened. I have been continually reminding myself of this. Being harshly judged previously, for what I wrote in a blog some years ago, and on another occasion for something I posted online, I'm extra-nervous. But that is because I know how incredibly painful both of those incidents were. I was cut to the core. I was devastated. I know how it feels.
Identifying what your fear is about is the key to moving beyond it, and getting support can make it that much easier to deal with. I know what my fears are, I'm working with a coach and it is helping, hugely.
So, when I stumble as I navigate this next part of my journey to becoming an author, I get the help I need, I dust myself off and get back up. I tell myself, that was then and this is now. I have a whole new set of skills, more wisdom and self I bring to this. I remember why I am doing this. I love writing more than anything. I have a story to share. I want to inspire others. Mostly, I don't want to leave this planet without becoming an author. Question: What goals are you not moving forward with out of fear? I'd love to hear in the comments. With love,
