Friday, September 30, 2011

Be Bold

 Telling people I'm a writer is one of the hardest parts of being a writer.


So what do you do?  someone will ask.  And then there will be this long awkward pause while I try to force the word writer out of my mouth.


Just tell them you're a lawyer, part of me whispers.  I rarely get any follow-up questions when I tell people I'm a lawyer.

But lately, I've been forcing myself to say writer.  I'm a writer.  Then I force myself to smile as I answer all the follow-up questions.  No I'm not published.  No I don't have an agent, but I'm looking (hopeful pause).   Then they'll ask me about my work and I find I'm no longer forcing the smile.

I'm learning people are usually really nice and genuinely curious.   I'm the one judging myself, not them. I decided to be bold because I've been crushing my dream with my own insecurities long enough.  And besides I'm not going to make any connections if I don't tell anyone.  Speaking of that, does anyone know an agent?




6 comments:

  1. Damn, that's a nice picture. Are you on Mars or something?

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  2. Yes, I am on mars researching for my paranormal YA manuscript.

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  3. Yes, Mars. Where the air is thin and the landforms stark - a tableau of crisp minimalist beauty where the strange denizens perch on one foot while at rest. This pic belongs in a frame, on a wall.

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  4. Am I your first non-relative commenter today?
    Cool!
    I have trouble with admitting it too. It's been very gradual for me.
    Nice to meet you and your blog!

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  5. I'm here from Literary Rambles, and am now your newest follower, so:

    Nice to meet you!

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  6. You inspire people to Smile...I am waiting for you to publish so I can have Heather and Lindsay enter your mind...Love you .....Aunt Sheri

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