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The Challenge of Your Choosing & How it Changes You

Happy Sunday Monday, Writer’s Block Party crew!

I missed you yesterday. And I assure you I wouldn’t have missed our meeting for no reason.

So, let me explain…😊

Yesterday was one of my first major deadlines since becoming a writer. As I shared, I’ve been selected for a writing fellowship/workshop this summer.

I’ll spare you the less glamours “after” picture. (smile)

In anticipation of attending, I had to submit two works in progress: an extended excerpt from my current religious cult fiction novel, and something else in a different genre or style to show the versatility of my writing. At their suggestion, I explored an area that’s entirely new to me: short story. And in several days, I wrote one with some subtle social commentary on a political issue near to my heart. I can’t wait to share it with you!

Somewhere in the haze of the creative process, I came across a quote that powerfully put things into perspective: “What a blessing to be tired in the pursuit of a challenge of your own choosing.”

Yesterday and really all month, I’ve been locked down. Writing and editing. Editing and writing. All in the powerful pursuit of a challenge of my own choosing. How incredible!

I can happily report that last night around 10 pm (the day of the deadline), just moments before we lost power for literally no reason…again, I clicked submit.

And your girl is tired. Extremely thankful, but exhausted.

But here’s just a few lessons I learned in the process that I’d love to share in hopes that it resonates, stirs, inspires, or ignites something that gets you moving toward that challenge of your choosing:

Delusionally Believe in Your Potential

If you’d told me five years ago, I’d be going to spend a week with agents, publishers, editors, academics, and other writers/authors intensively working on my novel, I would’ve called you crazy. But whenever I commit to something, I begin to believe I can become exceptional at it, whatever “it” is.

At times, it borders on delusion, but my sheer belief in what’s possible has opened countless doors, especially as I’ve made this transition. From writing a book in less than a year and getting an agent to building this beautiful community, my journey is proof that if I do the work, the right opportunities will open up.

Do Things Before You’re Ready

In addition, I take some pride in my ability to expedite timelines. Now my family would tell you my approach can feel a little…aggressive, but there’s power in pushing yourself to do things before you feel comfortable, confident, and sometimes even competent.

There’s work to do on my current novel. So. Much. Work. And it would’ve been all too easy to delay applying until next year…or the year after that. The message here is simple, so I won’t belabor the point: if there’s something on your heart to do, don’t delay taking the first step. Don’t convince yourself you need to be better, further along, or more comfortable. And PLEASE don’t assume you’ll have more time. You’ll be amazed by the power and progress that’s born from bold moves that feel premature at first.

And Finally, Submit

At some point, it’s time to submit, literally and in the figurative sense of the word.

My fingers shook as I sent off my work, knowing the next time I see it will be in a room full of people with (hopefully) good hearts but critical eyes, all aimed at making it better. And I’m quite confident that very process will make me better, too.

The deadline felt daunting. The path was (at times) painful. But now I get to relish being closer than I’ve ever have to completing a work the worlds needs, creating the community I’ve always craved, and building a life I love.

The insanity of the world continues. But for today, I’m allowing myself to celebrate a job well done. And with a million frustrations and fears, I’m more thankful than ever for this crucial source of support. This community. Thanks for being here!

Your turn. It’s all exhausting, so what challenge will you choose? What cause will you champion? What endeavor is worth your effort? You’re in a powerful position of being able to choose and I promise the exhaustion hits differently when it’s in furtherance of your dreams. Choose wisely. Care deeply. Create as only you can.

Oh, and a happy anniversary to my husband and biggest supporter. Marriage is a beautiful challenge and an incredible journey I’d choose again and again.

Until next week…

Cheers to 7 years!

If you’re in need of some extra credit reading on how to slow down and find more joy, you may enjoy The Monster’s Worst Nightmare, Slow Down, Savor More, or Happiness in the Hallway.

Mentally centering for the battle and need a piece that packs a punch? Got you. Take a look at Dear Columbia Law School or Still Short of Breath: On George Floyd, Memorial Day & Continued Dream Seeking.

And if you’re new to The Writer’s Block Party, Welcome to the Party & An Unforgiving Minute give great context on who I am and what we’re building.

I’m so glad you’re here!