To give some context, I started writing more than 30 years ago and it is ten years now since my first book released. In that decade, I've had eight novels, nine stage plays, several short stories, two non-fiction books, an illustrated children's book, and numerous articles published. I've worked with traditional publishers, vanity presses, and tried self publishing. I've acquired an agent and I've lost an agent. I've joined various groups, most notably InScribe in 2010, getting involved in various capacities until I now serve as president. When I look back at my track record, it appears quite productive. Still, there is always the sense that I could do more; that there are so many stories that need to be written. Time is running out and there must be a way to accelerate the process.
Some reality checks in the past couple of years have helped me focus more on God's timing than my own. I realize that stress can kill - literally, so I try not to take myself and my goals too seriously. Plans are a good thing as long as they don't become an obsession. It's why I felt the urge to purposely decide to 'go with the flow' this year when it comes to my writing. I still have a list of projects and goals, but I'm giving myself permission to ignore it.
You have done amazing things, Tracy, in your past ten years of writing. I perceive you are not one to rest on your past achievements, but I believe you are making healthy decisions--for your mind, body and spirit! Sometimes God allows us to run into troubles, so that we can hear his voice and so we are willing to listen to him. I concur with what you are saying, especially as you sum this up in your last paragraph.
ReplyDeleteMay God guide you and bless you in your presidency of InScribe and in your decision to "go with the flow" when it comes to writing. Thank you for accepting the helm position.
Thank you, Sharon. I appreciate the support that I feel from so many.
DeleteHi Tracy! Reality checks can sure help us and going with the flow sounds good too. "Time is running out" caught my attention. What do you mean? I really like how less stressed you sound in your post. "Ignoring" in the context you speak of also sounds good to me as well. Thank you for the post Tracy. Thank you also for lending your leadership skills to us in our beloved InScribe.
ReplyDeleteI'm not terminally ill, but as you know I did have a brush with death eighteen months ago. I definitely feel the aging process and the 'march of time' accelerating, as most people report once they reach a certain age. I guess based on my past track record, (productive as it may seem) I won't get the MANY MANY novels written that are still either in my head or in various stages of 'WIP-dom'. *Smile*
DeleteYou've certainly been prolific in publishing in the last ten years, Tracy. Congratulations! I find submitting work the hardest part of everything :(
ReplyDeleteWell said Tracy! I think we will always feel there are more things that could be done. I agree with the idea of going with the flow instead of feeling the need to accelerate the process. May your words and spirit continue to flow out in beautiful praise to the creator. All the best for this year, and another thank-you for the work you do for Inscribe.
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