August Newsletter:
I am going to keep this short; my mind is still in vacation mode, or…I have some writer’s block. Last month I mentioned I needed a break from writing, but I don’t know if I can do that entirely. I have missed my self-imposed deadline to send my newest non-fiction book to the printer. Before we left for vacation, my lovely neighbor (another Connie) read over the manuscript. More changes needed. Big sigh because some of it will mean struggling with the formatting program that’s not designed for non-fiction. Also, I have discovered that the printers and Amazon might not accept my AI cover. Ingram and Amazon are two different beasts to deal with. Hence, that’s the reasons I’m doing anything besides opening up the manuscript and working. The more I procrastinate, the more irritated I get with myself. Have you had that happen before? Here is my solution; you may find these helpful as well.
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Tips:
1. I reviewed my calendar for uninterrupted time, then scheduled time for the task. I’ll give myself more time than I think I will need. On the scheduled days, I’ll start the task before things like emails and any other tasks that come up, though I’ll need to water the garden first. 2. I’m reminding myself that I have done similar difficult things, and if I get stuck, there are resources I can reach for. 3. I’ll focus not on when I complete the task, but on what I will learn while doing it. 4. I’ll plan how I will celebrate the completion of the task.
Book Review: While doing some research for my non-fiction novel, I came across a similar title, Staying Close Without Overstepping: For Mothers of Adult Children by Deidra Kay. The book is about navigating boundaries, new families, grandchildren, and holidays without pressure, guilt, or pushing them away. I read the book; it is a fabulous resource for mothers navigating the required shifts in perspective on their role as the mother of a new adult and then how to function as a mother-in-law and/or a grandmother.
My Publishing Journey: I am struggling to accept that at my age, what I would consider a “professional career” as a writer has shifted. I can’t produce a book every 9 months to a year, and I don’t have a series in one of the most popular genres. So, if I continue to write, it will be a scattered mix of what I have already started (non-fiction, picture book, a stand-alone Women’s Fiction novel, a romance series, and a middle-grade Christmas book). I recognize that since I am one of the few older debut authors (past 70) my productive years are naturally limited and building a following takes time. I struggle with accepting the need to pull back for health reasons. To be honest, this month a part of me has been grieving missing out on my publisher’s AuthorFest in Nashville this year. I feel left behind as my fellow debut mature authors (though 10 to 15 years younger) have already published another book, most of which are coveted series.
The only thing I can do is feel the feelings and give myself grace. I am not a competitive person by nature, but I do like the feeling of accomplishment. There is something thrilling about taking an idea and bringing it to fruition. Thank for your support and interest. This old gal will keep plugging along with her writing. I’ll keep you posted on what and when another book comes out.
You could help me reach more readers by suggesting my book if you are a member of a book club. I would love to come as a guest or visit the group through Zoom or FaceTime. For your convenience, there are discussion questions at the back of the book. Contact me at conniemorganwriter@comcast.net. Also, if you have read the book, please leave a review on Amazon, Goodreads, or Barnes & Noble. Help me reach the 600 mark.
Booksellers everywhere offer More Than Luck Required in paperback, ebook, or audio.
***Connie’s Thoughts is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for mental health treatment. If you are in a crisis, please seek help. To reach the nationwide crisis support line, dial 988.
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In appreciation,
Connie
