It's War

I’ve been reading THE WAR OF ART by Steven Pressfield and I’ve been reminded of a thing or two.

The first part of his book talks about Resistance, which for those of you who haven’t read it, is what keeps you from writing—procrastination, criticism, self-doubt, unhappiness and the big one—fear.

He says that amateurs have problems with the Resistance. If we want to be professionals, we have to overcome whichever one of these symptoms ails us.

I have felt like a true amateur ever since I started writing seriously. So, this book is giving me plenty to think about. Do I want to be a professional? You bet! So, here goes the journey to professionalism.

I’m heading into the second part of the book today. He talks about combatting the Resistance.

It’s been great so far and I’m looking forward to reading more. The plan is to take all this great information and actually put it into practice. I have an idea, but I’ll let you know when I’ve finished the book what changes I’m going to make.

What books have you read that made a difference for you?

Book in a Month

I've done it. I've officially entered Tristi's Challenge to write a book in a month. Although I have already started this manuscript, I want it finished. So beginning July 1 to July 31 I will be writing 1,000 words a day until my Day of Fire story is finished. Then I will continue to edit and revise through the end of the month. Hopefully, it will be ready for my critique group to see and also for Tristi to edit.

I've got my work cut out for me, but I'm excited about the challenge.

If you are interested in doing the BIAM, click on my title and it will take you to her blog post.

Validation, It's a Good Thing

I spent the entire week last week at the BYU Writers and Illustrators Conference in Provo. Karen and I had a fabulous time. It is such an intense conference and so worth the money and the time. Each year I have attended I've come away having learned a great deal and feeling absolutely wonderful. The workshops are fabulous and the break-out sessions, informative. I loved my class this year. The members were great critiquers and since they are starting a critique group, I am really gratefully handing over my manuscripts for them to read.

Lisa Wheeler was our presenter and she was awesome. I got great feedback from her. She was a delight.

The most fun thing was associating with other writers and enlarging my group of writer friends.

The experience helped me hone my craft, develop fabulous friendships and receive some validating experiences with those "in the know."

I am still walking on clouds.