In preparation for today’s post, I took a look back at my first one from when Wicked Writers launched in January. Back then, I had no idea what a blog even was. Five months in, and these weekly deadlines are a blast, in particular hearing from our beloved readers.
One of the goals I’d set back in January, though, was to land an agent this year and, in my rush to meet that deadline, I’ve been rushing myself into a tizzy. I haven’t had enough bandwidth for anything, least of all to relax and just enjoy the ride. Too often, I tell my kids, “right after this call” or “right after this deadline,” yet one of the main reasons I no longer work in an office is no, not all the oodles of money we’ve banked (not), but so I could devote more attention and energy to the little ones, first and foremost. They grow up too fast and I’m already feeling the bittersweet passage of time.
As well, blogging is a platform, and in the excitement of having one, I’ve suddenly spread myself in a multitude of directions, neglecting to keep in mind that the platform supports the product. So before I can realize my goal of landing an agent, some things need to change.
For one thing, I need to get organized and find my center. That means staying focused, stop making excuses, don’t try to do it all, and learn to enjoy some stillness. In the short run, that means taking a break from blogging. I know, not the end of anyone’s world, but it’s a shame to have to give up something I enjoy with a talented bunch of authors whom I admire. Much thanks to the Wicked Writers for allowing me the wonderful opportunity to blog with them this year. And to you readers for listening to what I had to say and sharing your own thoughts with me.
For now, I'll step back, finish polishing that manuscript and get those queries out. I'm not leaving cyberspace altogether. You can still find me on Facebook and occasionally on Twitter. I'd love to see you there. Stay in touch.
Wishing you the very best. Write when you can, but you're right - you need to be there for your kids. They do grow up way faster than we expect.
ReplyDeleteYou're always welcome back. If you have the time we'd love to have you.
Supriya, do what you have to do. I knew what a blog was but never thought that I would have one. Once my novel was published in February it has been PR every day, all the time. I didn't even commit myself to finishing my novel until the kids were 14 and 10. Prior to that I had simply allowed it to collect dust, along with my dreams of being a writer. Good luck to you with everything that you are attempting to juggle...
ReplyDeleteWell, I shall just have to knuckle down and work damn hard to follow in your footsteps! My best wishes to you, Supriya, always!
ReplyDeleteSorry to lose you, Supriya, but it's been one hell of a ride. I know you and Wendy have had lots of things in your lives, pulling you this way and that. I can't really appreciate all you have to do because I am single, with no children and because writing is my stress reliever.
ReplyDeleteBut, I do appreciate the work that you have done for Wicked Writers.
I wish you well in your future endeavors and I hope your children get to tell all their high school and college friends that their mother is a famous author.