Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Insecure Writers Support Group

WORD FOR THIS POST:

Insecure (adj): 1. subject to fears, doubts, etc.; not self-confident or assured: an insecure person.

It just occurred to me today that I have not defined 'insecure' yet. Perfect day to do so above as today is the First Wednesday of the month and time for the IWSG.

The brainchild of Alex J. Cavanaugh and Matthew MacNish :)

Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time.

I follow many blogs and once in a while someone writes something that makes me say "OMG! That's exactly how I feel."  Today, I'd like to post a quote by J.A. Konrath from one of his latest posts. Whether you agree with Mr. Konrath's views or not, what he said rings true for all writers and authors - at least it should. I found these words very inspirational, to know someone who has been successful in this industry feels exactly the same way I do about writing. I hope these words help you with today's insecurities:)

"I love writing. I loved it for the 12 years where I didn't sell a single thing, and I've loved it for the 12 years I've been a professional. I have all the conceits that every writer has. I think about my characters as if they're real people. I dream about scenes. I secretly believe my stories are the best in the world. I laugh at my own jokes, cry at the emotional parts, and often dislocate my elbow patting myself on the back after a good bit of dialog or a fun twist. Being a writer does more than define me; it isn't a job, it's a way of life. And when I put my life out there for the world to see, I want it to be the very best that I am capable of. I want readers to enjoy it as much as I have. I want every chapter, every scene, every sentence to be deliberate, to convey exactly what I want it to convey."

Have a great Wednesday everyone! 
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13 comments:

Annalisa Crawford said...

That's such a perfect thing to say. It sums me up as well. Thanks for sharing it.

Ciara said...

I hung on every word. He should be a motivational speaker.

Cate Masters said...

A way of life, indeed. :)
Ack, completely forgot this was today...

Unknown said...

Beautiful prose, and hear, hear. I can really relate to your feelings. It's good to know I'm not alone.

Cherie Reich said...

Yep, I agree with what Konrath said. Writing definitely is a way of life.

MISH said...

Konrath verbalised it... perfectly!

It's a funny thing, but I've always imagined that published authors have less insecurities... which is not true!

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

That's a fantastic quote. And the Insecure Writers' Support Group is a fantastic group.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

I've never believed my stories were the best in the world!
Oh, and Matthew and I did the Pay if Forward blogfest together - the IWSG is something I started last September.

M Pax said...

That sums it up for me, too. Great find, Marta.

dolorah said...

Yes, they do resonate with me too. thanks for sharing them.

......dhole

Arlee Bird said...

Writing is a risky business. I think all writers share the insecurities whether they want to admit it or not--that is unless they're not human.


Lee
A Faraway View
An A to Z Co-host blog

sjp said...

I have just joined and this definitely sums up my reasons as a writer

Shannon Lawrence said...

Great quote! It's so true, too. If you don't love writing, why do it?

Shannon at The Warrior Muse, co-host of the 2012 #atozchallenge! Twitter: @AprilA2Z