I have been on this journey for over ten years- published author. Ten years before that I wrote every day in my journal to prove I had the grit in me for writing.
In four years I wrote and self published four novels. For seven years, I have been in a bit of a slog. In answer to your question, do you create, even you see no money? It boils down to yes. I am discouraged at times from the lack of recognition and financial progress. I feel my husband would support me more if I had that modicum of financial favor. I’m still trying. I felt accomplished when I get into productive writing spurts. I have to extend those spurts to regular habit for the marathon.
Definitely, life/work balance figures into this. Working at the paying job is easier even if not more satisfying. As a nurse, a lot of energy and physical resources go into that career. Then guilt rears itself as I think I did the two together earlier and wrote for a blog. I was driven. Maybe burn out or maybe disenchantment from not being a success led to my slog.
Now, the dream ignites again and maybe this time. Or maybe not. I will still create. The struggle as they say is real.
The struggle is so real! Thank you for sharing your story. That is really awesome that you have four novels out too. I know that I've written my books in bunches. Sometimes two in a year and then a year without. Trying to turn that around.
I'm in the same place as you, dreaming of being a full-time creator but still struggling to manage a day job and family responsibilities. Some days it's really tough, but I've been on this road for 5 years already, I'm not going to stop now. Thanks for sharing your story because it helps keep me going.
Yes! I'm realizing the better we can nail down the creative journey the closer we get to full-time. And I think things can turn rather quickly, we just have to hit that sweet spot.
Jun 2, 2023·edited Jun 2, 2023Liked by J.R. Heimbigner
I restacked your story. Thanks for your appreciation. It's not easy to juggle all those balls in the air without dropping one. Practicing in public is really important to improve your writing. I wrote a novel last year, but since I haven't self-published it yet, it just doesn't exist.... Of course, I could publish a few chapters and see what people think. That would be a smart next step ^^
Jun 5, 2023·edited Jun 5, 2023Liked by J.R. Heimbigner
Hi JR , I know which one would be perfect: mystic mInds. Kimberly said: Gone were the days when spiritual writers were afraid to write their experiences because the stories were too “out there” and the writers would be considered crazy or weird.
I want your personal stories. The natural, the supernatural, and the mystical. And your encounters with God, the divine. We really love God. Send them all to Mystic Minds (well written of course) and you’re home
I identified with so much of this post. I also ordered your book. I'm looking forward to reading it and putting it into action. God bless, Cat
Thank you!!! I hope we can continue to inspire each other and I can't wait to see what happens next!
I'm excited to find out as well. We are living in some amazing times. God has us here right now for a reason. 😊
Keep at it.
I have been on this journey for over ten years- published author. Ten years before that I wrote every day in my journal to prove I had the grit in me for writing.
In four years I wrote and self published four novels. For seven years, I have been in a bit of a slog. In answer to your question, do you create, even you see no money? It boils down to yes. I am discouraged at times from the lack of recognition and financial progress. I feel my husband would support me more if I had that modicum of financial favor. I’m still trying. I felt accomplished when I get into productive writing spurts. I have to extend those spurts to regular habit for the marathon.
Definitely, life/work balance figures into this. Working at the paying job is easier even if not more satisfying. As a nurse, a lot of energy and physical resources go into that career. Then guilt rears itself as I think I did the two together earlier and wrote for a blog. I was driven. Maybe burn out or maybe disenchantment from not being a success led to my slog.
Now, the dream ignites again and maybe this time. Or maybe not. I will still create. The struggle as they say is real.
The struggle is so real! Thank you for sharing your story. That is really awesome that you have four novels out too. I know that I've written my books in bunches. Sometimes two in a year and then a year without. Trying to turn that around.
Good post. Thank you.
Thank you for reading and leaving a note!
I'm in the same place as you, dreaming of being a full-time creator but still struggling to manage a day job and family responsibilities. Some days it's really tough, but I've been on this road for 5 years already, I'm not going to stop now. Thanks for sharing your story because it helps keep me going.
Yes! I'm realizing the better we can nail down the creative journey the closer we get to full-time. And I think things can turn rather quickly, we just have to hit that sweet spot.
I agree. Today might just be the day everything changes. Just keep writing...
I restacked your story. Thanks for your appreciation. It's not easy to juggle all those balls in the air without dropping one. Practicing in public is really important to improve your writing. I wrote a novel last year, but since I haven't self-published it yet, it just doesn't exist.... Of course, I could publish a few chapters and see what people think. That would be a smart next step ^^
P.S. Not sure whether you got Boosted yet, but if you know another Nominator or pub that's eligible for a Boost, let me know: https://kristinagod.substack.com/p/13-medium-publications-that-can-nominate
Nope, nothing of mine has been boosted. In fact, a lot of my stuff has been tanking lately... But its not keeping me from publishing.
Keep on keeping on! It definitely helps to write for one of the pubs that are Boost-eligible ,😉
I'm signing up for a few of them to see if I can get some posts published! Thanks for sharing your guide!
Hi JR , I know which one would be perfect: mystic mInds. Kimberly said: Gone were the days when spiritual writers were afraid to write their experiences because the stories were too “out there” and the writers would be considered crazy or weird.
I want your personal stories. The natural, the supernatural, and the mystical. And your encounters with God, the divine. We really love God. Send them all to Mystic Minds (well written of course) and you’re home
https://kristinagod.substack.com/p/13-medium-publications-that-can-nominate
Oh that looks great, I am going to have to jump on that one!