If you want to know what it is like for a writer to release their work out into the world, let me paint a scene for you…Do you remember what it was like to get ready for your first date, or the first date after a long drought, or any occasion when you twist and turn your naked body in front of an unforgiving full-length mirror to check yourself for blemishes?
You look and look—knowing there are some flaws that can be remedied and others that are too late to change. You strain and strain to see all the stray unwanted hairs to rid yourself of every one. This is the equivalent of finding those pesky autocorrected words or other mistakes missed in countless rounds of editing, even with a magnifying glass you are bound to let one slip by.
Why didn’t I catch that? We cry. Because undoubtedly as soon as you get in the car or we hit the publish button…there it is, the culprit, standing out in all its imperfect glory. Now, for many of us, it is too late, we can either roll out with what we have or risk the embarrassment of being late, or worse still, to cancel altogether.
So many terrifying steps from start to finish in both scenarios—all the while asking questions like…Will they like me? Will they look past the cover to see what I have inside?
This about sums up every writer’s life when we hit the publish button, not just the first time…every time, whether it is a blog post, a book, or a simple Facebook status update.
Be kind to us writers, for we are just humans trying to share with other humans in the hopes stirring your passions—to help you connect and feel alive. When you read an article or a book that you enjoy, please don’t just walk away. Show us that you will still love us tomorrow, give us your feedback, and share our words with others. Thank us for our bravery and we will thank you for the kindness.
Yes, Kami! Such a great analogy. I can relate 100%.
Thank you so much for reading Elizabeth! I appreciate your feedback. ?
Kami, it was so nice meeting you, and I love my hair cut. I read your book in two days. I could not wait to get to the next page. I love the girls and can’t wait for the next book.
I am thrilled on all accounts too, Kay! Working hard to get that second book out…it is going to be a roller coaster ride. ?
I know you said once that your books were like a piece of your soul. I admire your strength in sticking with writing and publishing your books!