Definition of Courage: the strength of character; will power; daring; fortitude.
When I first noticed the kernel of thinking about writing stirring in my chest, I felt unqualified compared to others. I had never taken any journalism or creative writing classes. But my biggest obstacle: I didn’t have any courage.
You, Vicki?
Yes, me. I was afraid. I was scared of criticism. Criticism can grind into one’s bone marrow and block someone from moving forward.
Criticism can paralyze.
Criticism implies failure.
I wrote essays and papers in school. Over the years, I contributed, edited, and produced three newsletters for various groups. I read tons and tons of books. Was that enough to qualify for writing?
The only way to know for sure is to try. Flex fingers. Bumper in chair. Type.
I had to dig deep down into the soles of my shoes for the courage to ask a friend to read what I had written. I suspected when she said, “keep going,” she was kind. I appreciated that. Her two words caused me to run with it.
Not long ago, I read or heard failing wasn’t so bad. We learn from failures. I never looked at failing that way before.
When I did begin writing, I knew I had a lot to learn and was willing to put in the time to do so. In fact, there is always MORE to learn about everything. Everything in publishing has turned topsy turvy since I began. But the basics of writing a good, compelling, page-turner are still there.
The most significant contribution to overcoming failure was finding a tribe(s). I have met so many other aspiring writers who began the same journey with the same insecurities. Together, we have grown. I am thankful every day for these people in my life.
My writing journey has given me wings. I have done things that I never thought I would do. I’ve published about forty short stories and essays and three romantic comedy mysteries. I just wish
So what held me back? Why did I lack courage? Just me, myself, and I. I stood in the way of myself.
Have you done that?
So where has courage led me?
Great job. What man? And murder. Newly employed at Wedding Wonderland, Hattie Cooks is learning the industry from a woman she greatly admires. When her former brother-in-law is found dead in his luxury SUV, all fingers point to Hattie’s sister, who is planning her own I Dos.
Detective Allan Wellborn is caught between a rock and a hard place—Hattie’s family and investigating the murder of a well-connected Sommerville resident, the same loser who was once married to Hattie’s sister. Determining who’s the bad guy—or gal—isn’t going to be easy and sure to piss off someone.
Can Hattie beat the clock to find out who murdered Tracey’s ex before she is charged with the crime and her wedding is ruined?
-I loved it! It was a very entertaining and a fast read that kept me engaged throughout. The pacing was perfect. My only complaint is now I’m craving M&Ms and enchiladas. And donuts. And wedding cake.
-I laughed. I wondered. Then I laughed some more. Every page of Temporarily Out of Luck delivers a satisfying story and heartfelt humor. Don’t miss this great read!
–Temporarily Out of Luck is a light, funny mix of romance and suspense, set against the backdrop of a pending wedding. Say “I do!” to this delightful story!
-With charming characters, an intriguing murder plot, and lots of laughs, Vicki Batman’s latest book, Temporarily Out of Luck, is a total delight.
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Thank you for introducing, into your way of writing. This sounds like a wonderful book, and your story is very motivating. Thank you, and enjoy a beautiful weekend! Michael
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Thank you for stopping by. Vb
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Hey, Vicki. Oh my what a great post and it resonated with me. I remember those early years in my critique group when I knew nothing about genre writing. Every week, I’d walk out thinking, why am I doing this. I’m pitiful. I’ll never get this figured out. You know the old saying, nothing worth doing is easy. I took classes, learned, and remembered someone’s wise advise, The only thing that can stop you is you yourself. My mantra became: keep on keeping on. Like you, I keep learning. And gosh couldn’t the publishing industry slow down, so I’d get to feeling competent before it blasts off in some new direction?! LOL Thanks for a great post. I’ve shared. 🙂
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That’s what is great about having writing friends–the willingness to help each other. I kept going too. I can only imagine if I hadn’t tried and I would still be unpubbed. I remember an advice columnist saying, “How old would you be if you didn’t” go to school or pub a book or take up painting.
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Yes, Vicki. I heard a 65 year old woman who’d just graduated from law school. When people asked her why she was doing it, she said, Well, I could be 65 with no law degree or 65 with a law degree. I’ve always loved that.
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What a wonderful post, Vicki and so timely and relevant. I’m sitting here at my son’s house and he has a wall plaque that states… “I never lose. I either win or learn” and that is SO true in every area of life, especially writing! I had no formal training either when I started writing, just a desire to write something better than what I’d read.
Good luck and God’s blessings
PamT
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Thank you, Pam! I really like your son’s saying. I’m writing it down now! Many hugs!!
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What convinced me that maybe I could write after all was when an acquaintance (coworker of my husband) read my first manuscript and said, “Are you going to write more? It was good.” The important part was her tone of voice. She sounded surprised. That told me she’d read it as a courtesy and was pleasantly surprised when she discovered it was actually good. That gave me the courage to go on, even more so than the “nice” friends who told me it was good.
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Hi, Kassandra! Your acquaintance’s words and voice meant a lot and gave great encouragement. Far too often, we don’t hear what we need to hear. Maybe we should make a habit of saying so to others. Thanks for stopping, vb
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It takes courage to face those inner naysayer voices. I’m sure your fans are glad you didn’t give up!
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Thanks, Jacquie! Would love even more fans. LOL
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You always encourage others. This is a great sample of how you do that. Thank you for sharing this, Vicki.
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Thank you, Kayelle. You deserve many kudos for establishing mfrw. Hugs!
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Great piece, Vicki! I haven’t done this long enough to know whether I’m any good at it, but I do know that doubt can get in the way of everything. I haven’t always been brave, but I’ve finally reached the age where I don’t worry about what anyone else thinks. That’s not entirely true—I want the people I admire (my family and friends) to think highly of me.
The best thing I’ve done in the past three years when I started my own journey after retirement (I’m 62) was to find a critique group. Since I taught for thirty-one years, I’ve always been a believer in the collaborative process. Even though they were all more experienced and better writers than me, if I’m being honest, they accepted me with open arms. We built trust right away, and that’s made a huge difference.I appreciate you sharing your experiences with us.
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Thanjs Pete! I found a critique partner in my writing chapters. Both were invaluable. Keep working your book. How old would you be if you didnt?
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