I’m a bit late today, but I didn’t want to miss altogether. So, here are my thoughts for the day!
Today, I am grateful. I’m grateful for Lauren Sapala, who did an amazing job giving me feedback in a way that was supportive and kind, but also extremely helpful and constructive. I’m grateful for the two people –other than Lauren– (out of seven) who managed to finish and give me feedback. I’m grateful to my dad, who has supported me in multiple ways up to this point, and to other family members who have cheered me on (despite me not always sharing my progress). I’m grateful for my SO, without whom, I would not have made it this far. I am grateful to have made it to this point in the pre-publishing process, and for all I have learned. There are other things I’m grateful for, but these are the ones on my mind right now.
I have learned a lot in the last few weeks. Things like, you really do need time away from your MS to let it simmer and help your brain reset. You will be much fresher and have a better perspective when you come back to it. Also, next time I give an MS to beta readers, I’m going to have way more people. The feedback I got from the two that did finish was good, but without Lauren’s in-depth notes, I would be much less prepared to fix my story. She was right, in her book, when she said writers are really the best people to have, because they know what the best advice and information is. If you are a writer, trying to decide whether or not to have a paid beta reader or not, I’d advise you not to hesitate. It was the best money I could have ever spent, and I will do it again for all of my future books.
Starting tomorrow, I’m going to dive into the second round of edits, and I’m nervous. I’m also excited. The anxiety is threatening to overwhelm me, but I’m doing my best to remember how far I’ve made it. If I had listened to that anxiety before, I wouldn’t be here now.
That’s all I’ve got for today. Nothing prolific or deep, just gratitude and learning. If you’re reading this, I wish you good luck on whatever you’re working towards.
The Introvert Author 