In December, I completed my Work In Progress. The *real* work started
after that.
I read it, edited, re-read then edited again.
CPs read the MS and gave priceless advice. I edited, re-read, edited.
Rinse and repeat. Ad nauseam.
I perfected my query with my Betas’ help to the point of tripping their
gag reflex.
The synopsis is in the can. The agents and agencies researched until I
could tell you what toilet paper they prefer.
The manuscript is polished and shiny. It is ready.
That is when I hit a wall.
Once again, this is not my first rodeo. I have been down the road
leading to Published Author before. It is a process, a journey and a valued
education. But the ultimate destination has proved elusive so far.
So why can’t I take that first step down the road to Query and submit
this MS to the agents?
Easy question, easily answered.
Terror
How do you handle this wretched fear?
I ignore it! I know my fear is there, but I do what Hank Hill from King of the Hill says, "Shove it down and swallow it." Yeah, it gives you a bit of a tummy ache, but that will pass.
ReplyDeleteI always tell myself that if I never try, I'll never know. Plus, I'd I never give up, I'll never fail.
ReplyDeleteI love that pic!
ReplyDeleteThe terror never goes away, if that helps at all. It's a rush putting yourself out there, but that's the only way you'll find out what you're made of. Good luck!
You have to take this major step. I understand completely how you feel because your manuscript is precious to you. Be prepared for rejection though (although you might get taken on at once!). Rejection is really hell and soul-destroying, but just think how you'll feel when the acceptance does come through (and it will).
ReplyDeleteGood luck. And go for it!
Yes, but I'm sure you won't be chased by crazy natives! Once you take that step, it will be so much easier.
ReplyDeleteGREAT POST!!!!! The picture says it all :) I am in the same boat, or rather, I'm running away from the same crazies! I keep moving my querying deadline to next month, then next month, then next month. Soon...right?
ReplyDeleteI wish I could send you some confidence. All I can say is...what else are you going to do? I say fight that terror and go for it. We are here to support you if you fail.
ReplyDeleteHmmm...that darned terror. It's a bother and a bugger. It also doesn't play well with others.
ReplyDeleteSounds like you're right in front of the door and nothing left but the doing. There is the rub since that's the scary step. But you can do it.
"You block your dream when you allow your fear to grow bigger than your faith." ~Mary Manin Morrissey
ReplyDelete"Panic at the thought of doing a thing is a challenge to do it." ~Henry S. Haskins
"Fear is the cheapest room in the house. I would like to see you living in better conditions." ~Hāfez
I'm really fond of that last one. :)
I've never gone through the process of publishing a book so I'm no expert in this arena but I've certainly experienced my share of fear and oft times I've allowed it to paralyze me. I think you just have to push through. Your MS is like a precious newborn child to you right now. Exposing it to the world would be terrifying but a child cannot grow into a successful adult if the child is kept in complete isolation and your MS has no chance of ever being more that your MS if you keep it in isolation. You've got a great cheering section here and we're all encouraging you to push past that terror.
So here's another quote for ya - "Just Do It" ;)
You're there. Just close your eyes and click the mouse!
ReplyDeleteOh Wow. I was overwhelmed by the virtual kick in the behind from my followers.
ReplyDeleteAngio: Swallowing it and w/o a tummy ache. Thanks.
Miranda: Good advice and what a great way to express it.
Briane: If you only knew. *smack head on desk*
Susan: Rejection I can handle. Worrying that I missed the brass ring is the nail bitter.
Alex: BWHAHAAA. Yeah. Things could be worse :)
Hope: Must-read-it-one-more-time is kinda catching, isn't it?
Michael, The Great Oz: Your comment was outstanding. Humbling even.
Angela: Those darn steps through the doorway get me every time.
Jenn: Only you and I know how much your support means. If this works, you can count on my patronage for more book covers.
Christine: I did it. Today. Took a breath, closed my eyes and 'click'.
Thanks to all for your support. Looking back, if I'd thought about it a bit more, I wouldn't have posted this since 'whiny' is not a good look for me.
Thanks. Really really. Thank you.
I close my eyes, hit send, and don't look back.
ReplyDelete