Hello from Crippled Beagle Publishing Headquarters,
I just wrapped up a twenty-one-day health challenge, so now it's time for CHOCOLATE and a break, right? Such temptations can strike quickly, can't they? What I find ironic is that when we eat, drink, sleep, work, and play with healthy habits, we feel better. When we cave to temptation or get off track, we feel worse. I can't explain the science, but I can certainly relate.
Last night, I enjoyed a heavy slice of cheesecake. I do not regret my decision. Today, I'll go to church and yoga. My guess is that I'll sleep better tonight and feel great tomorrow morning. Regardless, I will NOT beat myself up. That cheesecake was delicious.
Writers can be insanely self-critical, which doesn't serve us or our readers. Try these two actions when you get stuck or when imposter syndrome creeps into your mind.
- Remember WHY you write. WRITE this down and keep the note visible.
- Understand, reflect, and congratulate yourself for small improvements.
Yoga studios have wall-to-wall mirrors so students can watch their movements and make small adjustments. I am tempted to look into that giant mirror and focus on my middle-aged tummy rolls and notice that I am one of the oldest students in the class. Instead, I listen to my teacher and trust her coaching when she says, "Monitor your pose in the mirror," or "Look only three feet ahead of you at an object that is not moving."
I repeatedly hear the following advice from my yoga instructors. I have altered their wording to encourage you. My "translations" are in italics.
"Yoga is a practice. Every time you come to your mat you improve."
Writing is HARD sometimes, especially if you are writing about a tough or emotional topic. Every time you sit down to think and actually write, you improve.
"Yoga is symmetrical, but the body isn't. One side may feel different from the other."
There are two sides to your brain. They don't always work well together. Writers are sensitive people, which helps them be creative. Finishing a book requires a logical and systematic approach. Don't beat yourself up if one side is ruling the day. Embrace the flow and keep typing! Eventually, you'll find your balance. The funky combo of logic and creativity results in your unique voice and style.
"Some days your balance is off. That's normal."
Give yourself a break. I operate a business and care for three children ages 12-21 as well as an aging mother plus a husband who wants me to be June Cleaver. Poor guy. Anyway, some days, I make huge progress. Somedays, I just plain make it through. Shoot for minimums and then watch how you excel. Be easy on yourself while being consistent in your EFFORTS.
"Breathe."
Breathe! Oxygen is so good for thinking. Ha!
"Thank yourself for practicing."
Thank yourself for having the guts to write.
"Thank you for letting me guide you."
Thank you for letting me guide you!
My clients often begin their journeys motivated and energetic, but when they get stuck, stressed, distracted, or confused, they sometimes stall. If that describes you (at any point), reach out to me. There's no need to stay stuck when help is right here. Often, you just need a creative friend to tell you, "Yes. You CAN write a book. YES. You can SELL your book!" Thank you for letting me guide you.
Namaste,
Jody
If you would like a quick, 5-Step to Start and Keep Writing, click HERE.
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