Edie Melson's Blog, page 411
May 31, 2014
Social Media Image—The Writer is an Artist
Never underestimate the power of words to illustrate the world around us.
Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
May 30, 2014
9 Things You’ll Regret When You Look Back on Your Writing Journey if You’re Not Paying Attention Now
by Edie MelsonLife is full of regrets and the writer's life is no different. But since I'm a few years further down the path than a lot of you, I thought I'd share some things I wish I'd done differently. These are some regrets you don't have to have if you pay attention now.
1. Following the trends instead of writing what’s on your heart. It’s tempting to think, this or that is hot right now and an easy sell. The truth is, nothing is an easy sell. It all takes work. And more than that, it takes time. Chasing a trend will doom you to always being behind.
2. Not investing more time in your dream. All around you are opportunities to grow as a writer. Whether it’s local writing groups, online classes or chats, or conferences. Making your dream a priority is important.
3. Letting others define success. Success is different for each of us. I we let someone else’s definition guide us, we’ve lost our way.
4. Not saying yes to stretching your writing muscles. Courage is essential in this business. I’s what so often separates success from failure. If I only did what I knew I could, I’d never grow as a writer.
5. Listening to the negative voices in your head. We all have them, no matter where we are in the writing journey. The only difference is whether or not we choose to believe them.
6. Not networking more. In this business, as much or more than any other, it’s who you know. Building relationships can keep you sane, give you valuable leads, and open the doors to publication.
7. Submitting stuff too early in the editing process. It’s tempting to get frustrated with the process and think something is good enough. Every single time I tried that short cut it ended in failure.
8. Not writing more. Isaac Asimov was once asked what he’d do if he found out he only had six months to live. His answer haunts me. “Write faster.”
9. Letting the jealousy and pettiness of others derail your progress. It’s a competitive field and for some, winning is everything. These few can beat you down to build themselves up, if you let them. Don’t.
This is what’s on my list. What’s on yours?
Don’t forget to join the conversation.Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESDon’t look back on your writing journey & regret the choices you made, pay attention now – @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
9 Things You’ll Regret When You Look Back on Your WritingJourney – via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
May 29, 2014
Don’t Let Post-Conference Blues Derail Your Writing Journey
by Edie Melson
I'm just back from co-directing the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. It's always one of the high points of my year, but it's also an exhausting experience. And that exhaustion isn't limited just to those directing a conference or on staff. It affects those attending as well.
I've been attending large writing conferences for fifteen years and they all have ONEthing in common—post-conference blues.
It’s a natural response, if you think about it. A week-long conference is an exciting, grueling experience. Just physical exhaustion alone could get anyone down—add to that the mental and emotional effects and you have the perfect set-upfor a huge let-down.
For those who aren’t expecting the post conference blues they can—worst case—derail your writing career for a year or more. This malaise can keep a new writer from turning in the manuscripts and proposals requested at the event. It can set even an experienced writer behind several work days.
Unless you know what to expect and how to fight through.
What to expectThe feelings can run the gamut of a vague sense of unease to out-right panic. I’ve found that once I’m at home all the nice things people have said about my writing morph into something ugly.
My mind begins to play tricks and the requests and encouragement become nothing more than:They were just being polite—they didn't really like my writing.They don’t really want me to send in that proposal.They’ll never publish that (article, devotion, whatever) they told everyone to send something in.
All of these are lies. I've sat on the editor’s side of the desk and believe me when I say this.
Less than 30% of the writers I requested material from, actually sent something in.
I’m convinced that a big reason for this lack of follow-through is the post conference melt-down.
How to push throughHere are some tried and true ways I’ve found to minimize the effects.
Give yourself permission to feel deflated when you get home.Arrange your schedule so you have a few days to recuperate.Pamper yourself. Sleep in, go out to eat, spend some much needed time with family.Before you dive into conference generated work take time to evaluate what happened.Make a list of things you want to accomplish over the next year, next six months and next month.Develop a plan to stay in touch with new friends and contacts.Reach out to others who may be feeling the same way.Take your next steps in small increments.
All of these things can help you navigate the post conference blues. Now it’s your turn. Have you experienced the let-down? If so, share what have you found to help you cope in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESDon’t let post-conference blues derail your writing - @EdieMelson shares steps to take to fight through (Click to Tweet)
Less than 30% of the writers at a conference actually follow through & send requested material - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
I'm just back from co-directing the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. It's always one of the high points of my year, but it's also an exhausting experience. And that exhaustion isn't limited just to those directing a conference or on staff. It affects those attending as well.I've been attending large writing conferences for fifteen years and they all have ONEthing in common—post-conference blues.
It’s a natural response, if you think about it. A week-long conference is an exciting, grueling experience. Just physical exhaustion alone could get anyone down—add to that the mental and emotional effects and you have the perfect set-upfor a huge let-down.
For those who aren’t expecting the post conference blues they can—worst case—derail your writing career for a year or more. This malaise can keep a new writer from turning in the manuscripts and proposals requested at the event. It can set even an experienced writer behind several work days.
Unless you know what to expect and how to fight through.
What to expectThe feelings can run the gamut of a vague sense of unease to out-right panic. I’ve found that once I’m at home all the nice things people have said about my writing morph into something ugly. My mind begins to play tricks and the requests and encouragement become nothing more than:They were just being polite—they didn't really like my writing.They don’t really want me to send in that proposal.They’ll never publish that (article, devotion, whatever) they told everyone to send something in.
All of these are lies. I've sat on the editor’s side of the desk and believe me when I say this.
Less than 30% of the writers I requested material from, actually sent something in.
I’m convinced that a big reason for this lack of follow-through is the post conference melt-down.
How to push throughHere are some tried and true ways I’ve found to minimize the effects.
Give yourself permission to feel deflated when you get home.Arrange your schedule so you have a few days to recuperate.Pamper yourself. Sleep in, go out to eat, spend some much needed time with family.Before you dive into conference generated work take time to evaluate what happened.Make a list of things you want to accomplish over the next year, next six months and next month.Develop a plan to stay in touch with new friends and contacts.Reach out to others who may be feeling the same way.Take your next steps in small increments.All of these things can help you navigate the post conference blues. Now it’s your turn. Have you experienced the let-down? If so, share what have you found to help you cope in the comments section below.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESDon’t let post-conference blues derail your writing - @EdieMelson shares steps to take to fight through (Click to Tweet)
Less than 30% of the writers at a conference actually follow through & send requested material - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
May 28, 2014
Clues Your Writing Critique Group is Going TOXIC
by Edie Melson
I’m a big fan of having a writing support team. I know I’m a much better writer because I have a small group of writers I exchange critiques with. I believe there are very few writers who produce high quality work in a vacuum. These groups may be set up formally, with specific meeting dates and times. Or they may be less structured.
But occasionally the dynamics change, and today I want to share some clues your critique group is going toxic. These are warning signs that not addressed, may destroy valuable relationships forever.
One caveat before I begin, although I have been in situations where these have happened, they haven’t all happened to me personally. And, I’m ashamed to say, I’ve unintentionally been the perpetrator of a couple of these. We need to be as vigilant about our own motives and actions as we are of others.
Symptoms of a Toxic Critique1. The critique becomes personal.If someone is attacking you, with comments that cross the line, beware. Comments may include, “You really don’t know how to write, do you?”
2. The volume level gets loud.This one gets me occasionally. I’m passionate about writing, and although I try, sometimes I make people uncomfortable with how loud I get. I don’t mind this one (probably because I tend to be confrontational at times) but I’ve learned to respect how it comes across to others.
3. The person who argues with every suggestion. I’m the first person to stand up for an author’s rights. I believe you are the master of your story. But none of us is right one hundred percent of the time. I’m perfectly happy if you decide not to accept my suggestions, but if you’re going to argue with every single one then we’re both wasting valuable time.
4. There’s nothing positive shared.I’m a big fan of the sandwich critique. In this method, I share something positive about the manuscript, then something that may need work, followed by something else positive. Let’s face it, critiques are difficult enough without it always being all about what someone is doing poorly. And this one leads me to number 4.
5. Frequent use of the word WRONG. In the publishing industry there are lots of gray areas, and very few hard and fast rules. Grammar is where you find most of the rules, but even those may be broken, if there’s a compelling reason. When someone tells you something is wrong, it’s a clue that there are deeper issues involved.
6. More talk ABOUT writing than actual words produced. If you find yourself in a group where all you do is encourage each other to overcome life and sit down and write, you’re not in a critique group, you’ve morphed into a support group. There’s nothing wrong with support, we all hit times when life gets the better of us. But be careful if it’s happening every week.
7. The person I like to call the, FOOD CRITIC. This is the one member who has all the answers, but almost never brings anything to be evaluated. 8. A lack of respect. This can show up in 3 main ways.Those who are habitually late and/or don’t let the group know when they can’t make a scheduled meeting (online or off).It can also be seen when the one giving the critique tries to force the writer to make changes. No matter how good I think my advice is, ultimately the manuscript belongs to the one who's writing it. I need to respect that and move on.The final one is a variation of the argumentative person seen in number 3 above. But this disrespectful person has a superior attitude about every suggestion made. The attitude is one of, “I hear you, but I’d never take advice from the likes of you.” Their demeanor drips with the resolve to be nice, but with obvious undertones of I’m better and we both know it.
Our industry is a living and growing entity. It’s changing almost daily, especially with the advent of ebooks and digital publishing. What used to be a rule, now is a viewed as a quaint tradition. To stay relevant, we NEED to band together. It’s a huge advantage to connect with others who are seeking to grow and put out the best possible product we can at a given moment in time. So if you've seen some of these symptoms, don't hesitate to address them. A little diligence now can save a valuable relationship. Now, I’m curious. What symptoms would you add to this list of toxic symptoms?
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESIs your writing critique group going toxic? @EdieMelson has some warning signs you need to look for (Click to Tweet)
8 warning clues that your writing critique group may be going toxic - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
I’m a big fan of having a writing support team. I know I’m a much better writer because I have a small group of writers I exchange critiques with. I believe there are very few writers who produce high quality work in a vacuum. These groups may be set up formally, with specific meeting dates and times. Or they may be less structured.But occasionally the dynamics change, and today I want to share some clues your critique group is going toxic. These are warning signs that not addressed, may destroy valuable relationships forever.
One caveat before I begin, although I have been in situations where these have happened, they haven’t all happened to me personally. And, I’m ashamed to say, I’ve unintentionally been the perpetrator of a couple of these. We need to be as vigilant about our own motives and actions as we are of others.
Symptoms of a Toxic Critique1. The critique becomes personal.If someone is attacking you, with comments that cross the line, beware. Comments may include, “You really don’t know how to write, do you?”
2. The volume level gets loud.This one gets me occasionally. I’m passionate about writing, and although I try, sometimes I make people uncomfortable with how loud I get. I don’t mind this one (probably because I tend to be confrontational at times) but I’ve learned to respect how it comes across to others.3. The person who argues with every suggestion. I’m the first person to stand up for an author’s rights. I believe you are the master of your story. But none of us is right one hundred percent of the time. I’m perfectly happy if you decide not to accept my suggestions, but if you’re going to argue with every single one then we’re both wasting valuable time.
4. There’s nothing positive shared.I’m a big fan of the sandwich critique. In this method, I share something positive about the manuscript, then something that may need work, followed by something else positive. Let’s face it, critiques are difficult enough without it always being all about what someone is doing poorly. And this one leads me to number 4.
5. Frequent use of the word WRONG. In the publishing industry there are lots of gray areas, and very few hard and fast rules. Grammar is where you find most of the rules, but even those may be broken, if there’s a compelling reason. When someone tells you something is wrong, it’s a clue that there are deeper issues involved.
6. More talk ABOUT writing than actual words produced. If you find yourself in a group where all you do is encourage each other to overcome life and sit down and write, you’re not in a critique group, you’ve morphed into a support group. There’s nothing wrong with support, we all hit times when life gets the better of us. But be careful if it’s happening every week.7. The person I like to call the, FOOD CRITIC. This is the one member who has all the answers, but almost never brings anything to be evaluated. 8. A lack of respect. This can show up in 3 main ways.Those who are habitually late and/or don’t let the group know when they can’t make a scheduled meeting (online or off).It can also be seen when the one giving the critique tries to force the writer to make changes. No matter how good I think my advice is, ultimately the manuscript belongs to the one who's writing it. I need to respect that and move on.The final one is a variation of the argumentative person seen in number 3 above. But this disrespectful person has a superior attitude about every suggestion made. The attitude is one of, “I hear you, but I’d never take advice from the likes of you.” Their demeanor drips with the resolve to be nice, but with obvious undertones of I’m better and we both know it.
Our industry is a living and growing entity. It’s changing almost daily, especially with the advent of ebooks and digital publishing. What used to be a rule, now is a viewed as a quaint tradition. To stay relevant, we NEED to band together. It’s a huge advantage to connect with others who are seeking to grow and put out the best possible product we can at a given moment in time. So if you've seen some of these symptoms, don't hesitate to address them. A little diligence now can save a valuable relationship. Now, I’m curious. What symptoms would you add to this list of toxic symptoms?
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLESIs your writing critique group going toxic? @EdieMelson has some warning signs you need to look for (Click to Tweet)
8 warning clues that your writing critique group may be going toxic - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
May 27, 2014
Indie Tuesday—Reaching YA or NA Readers Online
by Charity Tinnin @CharityTinnin
What if your readers don't read traditional blogs? This is a question both Jessica and I have wrestled with as young adult/new adult authors. Most 30 and under readers don't follow traditional blogs, and a growing number of teens use Facebook less now that their parents and grandparents have accounts. So how does an author reach YA or NA readers online?
Second, don't write off Facebook. Despite the leveling off of Facebook users in the 18-29 demographic, the social network remains number two. For these users, Facebook remains a place to keep up with their friends and can serve as a hub for all their social media (They often link all their accounts—Twitter, Goodreads, Instagram, etc.—here.)
Third, once you've mastered the above, consider one of the visually driven networks. Young/new adults gravitate toward visual images, easily-digestible information, and content that can be shared with a click of a button. And they like to spread their attention around. For example, the thirteen-thirty year olds I know use four-seven social networks each. So, pick a visually driven network you feel drawn to, work on doing it well, then consider whether you're crazy (read: ambitious) enough to add more.
Excluding messenger apps like Snapchat and Kik, the following are networks teens and new adults use daily:
Instagram: For users who want to post pictures (with or without custom filters) and 15-second videos with hashtags. Teens follow friends, celebrities, and certain hashtags (like #Coverlove, #Bookstagram, or #CurrentlyReading). Pinterest: Create virtual bulletin boards your readers can use to connect visually with your story or series. Pin or repin pictures on character or story-world boards. (Consider copyright before choosing to repin). Tumblr: Many YA authors, including John Green and Kiera Cass, have Tumblr pages. These authors use their pages to blog short thoughts and reblog fan-created memes, GIFs, fan-art, fan-fiction, etc. Followers are harder to come by here than on Instagram or Pinterest, but teens that use Tumblr spend hours reblogging posts that interest them. Tumblr posts can be shared on Twitter and Facebook as well. YouTube: Set up a YouTube account to upload book reviews, book trailers (60 seconds or less), character interviews, or how-to videos specific to your brand.
You don't have to master every single network. Try one, and see if it fits. For example, Jess and I co-host a Tumblr site entitled FictionCrush, and I have just started dipping my toe into the world of Instagram. We've both had some success. If these networks can connect us with our readers, I'm sure we'll continue. If not, both of us are free to drop back and try something else.
What about you? What social networks do you use? Which one seems to connect you best with your readers?
TWEETABLES
Which social networks should YA/NA authors focus on? @CharityTinnin offers suggestions. #IndieTuesday via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
.@CharityTinnin offers suggestions for finding YA and NA readers online through social networking apps. #IndieTuesday (Click to Tweet)
Charity Tinnin’s fascination with dystopian lit began in high school, so it's no surprise that her debut novel, Haunted, would be a YA dystopian. Now, she mentors high school students at her church, works as a freelance editor, and lives in the foothills of North Carolina. When she’s not editing for a client or working on the State v. Seforé series, she spends her time reading YA and discussing the merits of fictional heroes online. Speaking of the Internet, Charity loves to talk about YA lit, TV, and State v. Seforé. Find her on Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, Instagram, or her website to continue the conversation.
What if your readers don't read traditional blogs? This is a question both Jessica and I have wrestled with as young adult/new adult authors. Most 30 and under readers don't follow traditional blogs, and a growing number of teens use Facebook less now that their parents and grandparents have accounts. So how does an author reach YA or NA readers online?
Second, don't write off Facebook. Despite the leveling off of Facebook users in the 18-29 demographic, the social network remains number two. For these users, Facebook remains a place to keep up with their friends and can serve as a hub for all their social media (They often link all their accounts—Twitter, Goodreads, Instagram, etc.—here.)Third, once you've mastered the above, consider one of the visually driven networks. Young/new adults gravitate toward visual images, easily-digestible information, and content that can be shared with a click of a button. And they like to spread their attention around. For example, the thirteen-thirty year olds I know use four-seven social networks each. So, pick a visually driven network you feel drawn to, work on doing it well, then consider whether you're crazy (read: ambitious) enough to add more.
Excluding messenger apps like Snapchat and Kik, the following are networks teens and new adults use daily:
Instagram: For users who want to post pictures (with or without custom filters) and 15-second videos with hashtags. Teens follow friends, celebrities, and certain hashtags (like #Coverlove, #Bookstagram, or #CurrentlyReading). Pinterest: Create virtual bulletin boards your readers can use to connect visually with your story or series. Pin or repin pictures on character or story-world boards. (Consider copyright before choosing to repin). Tumblr: Many YA authors, including John Green and Kiera Cass, have Tumblr pages. These authors use their pages to blog short thoughts and reblog fan-created memes, GIFs, fan-art, fan-fiction, etc. Followers are harder to come by here than on Instagram or Pinterest, but teens that use Tumblr spend hours reblogging posts that interest them. Tumblr posts can be shared on Twitter and Facebook as well. YouTube: Set up a YouTube account to upload book reviews, book trailers (60 seconds or less), character interviews, or how-to videos specific to your brand.
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You don't have to master every single network. Try one, and see if it fits. For example, Jess and I co-host a Tumblr site entitled FictionCrush, and I have just started dipping my toe into the world of Instagram. We've both had some success. If these networks can connect us with our readers, I'm sure we'll continue. If not, both of us are free to drop back and try something else. What about you? What social networks do you use? Which one seems to connect you best with your readers?
TWEETABLES
Which social networks should YA/NA authors focus on? @CharityTinnin offers suggestions. #IndieTuesday via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
.@CharityTinnin offers suggestions for finding YA and NA readers online through social networking apps. #IndieTuesday (Click to Tweet)
Charity Tinnin’s fascination with dystopian lit began in high school, so it's no surprise that her debut novel, Haunted, would be a YA dystopian. Now, she mentors high school students at her church, works as a freelance editor, and lives in the foothills of North Carolina. When she’s not editing for a client or working on the State v. Seforé series, she spends her time reading YA and discussing the merits of fictional heroes online. Speaking of the Internet, Charity loves to talk about YA lit, TV, and State v. Seforé. Find her on Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, Instagram, or her website to continue the conversation.
May 26, 2014
Memorial Day—Remembering Those Who've Paid the Ultimate Price for Freedom
Today, on Memorial Day, I want to interrupt my usual schedule to honor the holiday that commemorates those who've paid the ultimate price for freedom. As many of you know, our oldest son served four years in the Marine Corps as a front-line infantry Marine during two tours in Iraq. Because of this, I joined Blue Star Mothers of America, and even though Jimmy is now out of the service, I stay in to serve the families of those who serve.
One of our most important duties is to honor those who have died in service. I wrote about one particular military funeral on my Guideposts blog, While They Serve this past Friday, and I'd like to share it with all of you.
Angels on Guard
If you say "The Lord is my refuge," and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. (Psalm 91:9-11)
Inside the church I listened with one ear to the moving service, the other straining to catch any sounds of the protestors. I prayed that nothing would interrupt the tribute to a brave man. As the service progressed I began to relax, nothing from the outside penetrating the sanctuary.Then I began to hear–or more accurately feel–a deep rumbling roar. It was an almost inaudible hum, a vibration that seemed to ebb and flow. As I strained to identify the source of the noise, it suddenly hit me… (read more)
I'm always amazed and blessed by how many people I meet who have had loved ones who've served in the military. On this Memorial Day, I'd love for you to share your stories about those who've served.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
May 25, 2014
Weekend Worship—I Can Do It All
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
This was one of the first Bible verses I ever memorized. It’s a heady verse for someone like me. Someone who loves to say yes for two reason— the sheer joy of being involved and the fear others wouldn’t like me if I couldn’t perform. It was a dangerous combination. But I truly believed this verse gave me the ability to say yes to everything, and God would provide a way.
Fast forward several years, and the price of saying yes began to take it’s toll on my mind and body. I no longer lived a life of joy and victory. Instead I was a slave of over commitment. And I finally broke. It wasn’t pretty. Diagnosed with severe depression and several other mental health challenges it took me months to recover.
It was a painful lesson, and one I had to learn to ever be able to move forward. When forced to give up everything, I thought I’d never get to do anything fun again and that everyone would dislike me. (Stupid I know, but it’s really what I believed.) Slowly I began to realize God’s plan didn’t involve me saying yes to every good activity or need within my community.
I also discovered that when I said yes to something that wasn’t intended for me, I was in the way. I’d taken a task from someone else and denied them the joy of obedience. I'd become a roadblock in the journey God had for them.
I’ve also learned not to equate a need with a call from God. By that I mean just because I see a hole that needs filling it’s not my job to jump in. God has proven perfectly capable of providing for the needs of those around me.
Now I’m living a much more balanced and joyful life. I’m still not perfect, there are days I just can’t say no. But He’s shown me that the things He's given me weigh no more than a feather, no matter how labor intensive. But when I pick up a job or a burden on my own, no matter how small the time commitment, it weighs on me like a ton of bricks. That in itself makes me wary about saying yes without hearing from God.
To sum it all up: I’ve learned that I really can do it all...as long as I'm not trying to do everything.
Today I encourage you to look at the balance in your life. Do you need to lay something down that’s intended for someone else? Are you crying out for rest because you’re carrying a load not meant for you? There is rest and peace, all you have to do is let go.
This was one of the first Bible verses I ever memorized. It’s a heady verse for someone like me. Someone who loves to say yes for two reason— the sheer joy of being involved and the fear others wouldn’t like me if I couldn’t perform. It was a dangerous combination. But I truly believed this verse gave me the ability to say yes to everything, and God would provide a way.Fast forward several years, and the price of saying yes began to take it’s toll on my mind and body. I no longer lived a life of joy and victory. Instead I was a slave of over commitment. And I finally broke. It wasn’t pretty. Diagnosed with severe depression and several other mental health challenges it took me months to recover.
It was a painful lesson, and one I had to learn to ever be able to move forward. When forced to give up everything, I thought I’d never get to do anything fun again and that everyone would dislike me. (Stupid I know, but it’s really what I believed.) Slowly I began to realize God’s plan didn’t involve me saying yes to every good activity or need within my community.I also discovered that when I said yes to something that wasn’t intended for me, I was in the way. I’d taken a task from someone else and denied them the joy of obedience. I'd become a roadblock in the journey God had for them.
I’ve also learned not to equate a need with a call from God. By that I mean just because I see a hole that needs filling it’s not my job to jump in. God has proven perfectly capable of providing for the needs of those around me.
Now I’m living a much more balanced and joyful life. I’m still not perfect, there are days I just can’t say no. But He’s shown me that the things He's given me weigh no more than a feather, no matter how labor intensive. But when I pick up a job or a burden on my own, no matter how small the time commitment, it weighs on me like a ton of bricks. That in itself makes me wary about saying yes without hearing from God.To sum it all up: I’ve learned that I really can do it all...as long as I'm not trying to do everything.
Today I encourage you to look at the balance in your life. Do you need to lay something down that’s intended for someone else? Are you crying out for rest because you’re carrying a load not meant for you? There is rest and peace, all you have to do is let go.
May 24, 2014
Social Media Image—Where Do You Find Courage?
Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
I also invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
May 23, 2014
3 Reasons NOT to Start a Writing Blog & 3 Reasons to Do It Anyway
by Shanan @Write_Tomorrow
I'm very excited to introduce one of my favorite bloggers, Shanan. I discovered her blog, The Procrastiwriter when we both won an award on The Write Practice. I hope you take time to visit her blog and connect with her online. But join me today as she shares
3 Reasons Not to Start a Writing Blog, & 3 Reasons to Do It Anyway
Are you thinking of starting your own writing blog? Before I launched The Procrastiwriter, I was warned about this blogging thing. It’s time-consuming, the Internet told me. It’s a struggle. Bloggers are a dime a dozen. Why bother?
Good question.
Now that the blog is over a year old, I can use 365 days of fond hindsight to argue that yes, all the warnings were true. Warnings such as:
1. Your blog needs new material on a weekly, or maybe even daily, basis. Some weeks, my blog does a passable imitation of Audrey II from Little Shop Of Horrors. That’s just the nature of the digital beast. You gamble on your belief that you’ll somehow find an inexhaustible spring of new topics to keep you writing, posting and building your site. Launching a blog is a risk.
2. Blogs can infringe on your valuable writing time. Managing my time on other projects in addition to my blog (along with my regular 9-5 job) can get challenging, and if you’re thinking of starting a blog, just how much time you’re prepared to give to it should be a serious consideration.
3. The market is saturated. You’re a sober and meticulous writer, most likely, so if you’re considering starting a blog about the craft, you’ve probably noticed the sheer volume of writing blogs already adding their voices and experiences to the Internet conversation.
But wait, you’re still sure you want to start a blog? I like your stubbornness. Here are 3 good reasons to ignore the warnings above—and go for it!
1. Your blog needs new material on a weekly, or maybe even daily, basis. Are you an aspiring freelance writer hoping to make a living on assignments and contracts? A blog is fantastic practice (and exposure, but mostly practice). Are you a self-published novelist looking to build your oeuvre and find your audience? Being accountable for producing post after post after post (in perpetuity!) is one-of-a-kind, on-the-job training to help you meet such a goal.
2. Blogs can infringe on your valuable writing time. The whole point of The Procrastiwriter was to find and share the best ways to be a writer around a full-time life. (When I started the blog, I had a 2.5-hour daily commute tacked onto a 8.5-hour work day.) Ironically, instead of using the blog as a vehicle for communicating the strategies I was developing, it became the laboratory for experimentation. Again, that post-every-day responsibility forced me to be a writer around a full-time life, rather than simply musing about the concept.
3. The market is saturated—and that is a fantastic thing! Embrace the clutter and the unique mix of personalities in the writers’ corner of the blogosphere (and take comfort in the fact that all of us—including you—share the idiosyncrasies that make us writers of the current age). Yes, you’ll have to work harder and bring your A-game to get noticed, but blogging in a vacuum is absolutely no fun. Bonus: All this people-meeting and A-game-bringing makes you a better writer all around.
So go ahead, and start your blog! The Write Conversation is a wealth of resources and information about the business of blogging and its supporting pillar—social media. What are you waiting for?
TWEETABLES
3 Reasons NOT to start a #Writing Blog & 3 Reasons to Do It Anyway - via @Write_Tomorrow on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Thinking about starting a #writing blog? @Write_Tomorrow has some thoughts on why & why not on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
My name is Shanan, and I’m a writer with a problem. I do more procrastinating than writing, more “research” than writing, more brainstorming than writing and finally, more agonizing over the fact that I haven’t written anything than – you guessed it – actually writing. The Procrastiwriter is about procrastinating while writing, and how to be a successful writer around a full-time life. (Can it be done? Read to find out!). You can also connect with Shanan on Twitter and Facebook.
I'm very excited to introduce one of my favorite bloggers, Shanan. I discovered her blog, The Procrastiwriter when we both won an award on The Write Practice. I hope you take time to visit her blog and connect with her online. But join me today as she shares3 Reasons Not to Start a Writing Blog, & 3 Reasons to Do It Anyway
Are you thinking of starting your own writing blog? Before I launched The Procrastiwriter, I was warned about this blogging thing. It’s time-consuming, the Internet told me. It’s a struggle. Bloggers are a dime a dozen. Why bother?
Good question.
Now that the blog is over a year old, I can use 365 days of fond hindsight to argue that yes, all the warnings were true. Warnings such as:
1. Your blog needs new material on a weekly, or maybe even daily, basis. Some weeks, my blog does a passable imitation of Audrey II from Little Shop Of Horrors. That’s just the nature of the digital beast. You gamble on your belief that you’ll somehow find an inexhaustible spring of new topics to keep you writing, posting and building your site. Launching a blog is a risk.2. Blogs can infringe on your valuable writing time. Managing my time on other projects in addition to my blog (along with my regular 9-5 job) can get challenging, and if you’re thinking of starting a blog, just how much time you’re prepared to give to it should be a serious consideration.
3. The market is saturated. You’re a sober and meticulous writer, most likely, so if you’re considering starting a blog about the craft, you’ve probably noticed the sheer volume of writing blogs already adding their voices and experiences to the Internet conversation.
But wait, you’re still sure you want to start a blog? I like your stubbornness. Here are 3 good reasons to ignore the warnings above—and go for it!
1. Your blog needs new material on a weekly, or maybe even daily, basis. Are you an aspiring freelance writer hoping to make a living on assignments and contracts? A blog is fantastic practice (and exposure, but mostly practice). Are you a self-published novelist looking to build your oeuvre and find your audience? Being accountable for producing post after post after post (in perpetuity!) is one-of-a-kind, on-the-job training to help you meet such a goal.
2. Blogs can infringe on your valuable writing time. The whole point of The Procrastiwriter was to find and share the best ways to be a writer around a full-time life. (When I started the blog, I had a 2.5-hour daily commute tacked onto a 8.5-hour work day.) Ironically, instead of using the blog as a vehicle for communicating the strategies I was developing, it became the laboratory for experimentation. Again, that post-every-day responsibility forced me to be a writer around a full-time life, rather than simply musing about the concept. 3. The market is saturated—and that is a fantastic thing! Embrace the clutter and the unique mix of personalities in the writers’ corner of the blogosphere (and take comfort in the fact that all of us—including you—share the idiosyncrasies that make us writers of the current age). Yes, you’ll have to work harder and bring your A-game to get noticed, but blogging in a vacuum is absolutely no fun. Bonus: All this people-meeting and A-game-bringing makes you a better writer all around.
So go ahead, and start your blog! The Write Conversation is a wealth of resources and information about the business of blogging and its supporting pillar—social media. What are you waiting for?
TWEETABLES
3 Reasons NOT to start a #Writing Blog & 3 Reasons to Do It Anyway - via @Write_Tomorrow on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Thinking about starting a #writing blog? @Write_Tomorrow has some thoughts on why & why not on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
My name is Shanan, and I’m a writer with a problem. I do more procrastinating than writing, more “research” than writing, more brainstorming than writing and finally, more agonizing over the fact that I haven’t written anything than – you guessed it – actually writing. The Procrastiwriter is about procrastinating while writing, and how to be a successful writer around a full-time life. (Can it be done? Read to find out!). You can also connect with Shanan on Twitter and Facebook.
May 22, 2014
Writers & Fear—The Subject Just Keeps Coming Up!
by Beth Farley
It seems so ironic to me that when I sit down, ponder with God on the subject of writing, He takes me to places I really don’t want to go.
Today I was putting a strong devotion together for Edie Melson’s blog, when God poked at my spirit and spoke to me about a different subject. I wanted to write about the strong attributes in writing, the faith and the gusto we all acquire in order to be good writers. I was repeating so much of the good stuff that Edie has shared over and over again. Today though, God instructed me to write about fear of the unknown. But God, (in my whiney voice) I don’t want to write about fear….Not again, please!!!
leap - used under Creative Commons license from
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jhf/3448...FearWriters don’t know what to do with fear sometimes. I’ve taken a huge leap of faith being obedient to the call of writing. I am jobless with little money; and most often my health is not the greatest. However, My God is stronger than any of that.
I believe our fear is all about cognitive restructuring. It involves challenging beliefs and replacing them with more Biblical thoughts. God knows when we are struggling in thought and He takes the emotion of fear and turns it into obedience and then our obedience into rewards. I’ve seen Him do this over and over again in my life. Many of my blessings have first come from the trials.
WritingIt is no ordinary task. Not everyone can sit down and put words onto paper, onto screen effortlessly. Writers are certainly called to do the writing from something that is birthed within them. Writers have the ability to have access to God’s powerful tools to keep their heads held high during rejections, during dry times, during empty checking-accounts seasons. Writers are directors of their own movies and can change the script at any time. For me, I was quite content with submitting articles and maintaining a low profile forum, but just as I’ve become comfortable with article submissions He’s stirring my spirit to do more.
Next adventureOkay Lord, I’ll take this writing thing wherever You desire for me to take it. Book??? No! How? Me? About a million other questions floated across my mind. This is something God and I chatted about years ago; like at least fifteen years ago. I didn’t have time then. I was home-schooling my children and trying to maintain a farm. I have tried over and over again to wave-off this notion of writing a book but it’s been like swatting off a pesky fly; it just keeps coming back. We all know that if God is calling us to write something he will not let us go until we do it. He said the time is NOW!!!
DoubtThrough the years that I’ve wrestled with my fear of writing, I still find myself falling into the trap of doubt. Last week, I sank to my kitchen floor sobbing. In between tearful heaves I asked Him for direction and peace. “Jesus, help, I need Your peace,” I cried out. This week I’ve not only picked up the old vision with God, but He even gave me a title. How long will this endeavor take? I don’t know! But I have full confidence that since He has called me to write; He will be faithful to complete it. He who began a good work in you, will be faithful to complete it in you. (Philippians 1:6)
All WritersGod will give you the words, put people in your path, (thanks Edie) and many more loyal writers who have been holding my hand along the way. Join writers groups; critique groups or ask friends to look over what you’ve written. Edie’s web site is chock full of great information for beginner to advanced writers.
What other places have you visited that have helped you stretch your wings and follow God? Be sure to leave your answers in the comments section below.
Blessings,Beth Farley
TWEETABLESWriters & Fear - The Subject Keeps Coming Up - Beth Ann Farley has some tips to keep moving - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
All writers struggle with fear - Beth Ann Farley shares some things to help you cope on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Beth Ann Farley lives in Kansas City, MO with her husband and six grown children and 13 grandchildren. She has written for www.bookfun.org., Toot n’ Town magazine. She has recently been published with Landline magazine, Teachers in Focus, Horse & Rider, Mature Years, Indian Life and Wesleyan Publishing. Her poetry has been featured in Sweet Freedom written by Jennifer Slattery. She has been a guest blogger on thewriteconversation@blogspot.comby Edie Melson and Poppy Smith’s Inspiring Women to Thrive blog. Beth is a co-host on Living by Grace, a faith-based Facebook community. She often writes for the Senior Smart Network; a network devoted to senior citizens.
Beth enjoys spending time with family and friends. She loves to tootle around the country side with her husband and their motorcycle. She loves reading, writing in her journal walking her little peek-a-poo named Peek-a-chew and engaging in Women’s’ Bible Studies.
Visit her online at: http://firsthalfday1.wordpress.com.
It seems so ironic to me that when I sit down, ponder with God on the subject of writing, He takes me to places I really don’t want to go. Today I was putting a strong devotion together for Edie Melson’s blog, when God poked at my spirit and spoke to me about a different subject. I wanted to write about the strong attributes in writing, the faith and the gusto we all acquire in order to be good writers. I was repeating so much of the good stuff that Edie has shared over and over again. Today though, God instructed me to write about fear of the unknown. But God, (in my whiney voice) I don’t want to write about fear….Not again, please!!!
leap - used under Creative Commons license from http://www.flickr.com/photos/jhf/3448...FearWriters don’t know what to do with fear sometimes. I’ve taken a huge leap of faith being obedient to the call of writing. I am jobless with little money; and most often my health is not the greatest. However, My God is stronger than any of that.
I believe our fear is all about cognitive restructuring. It involves challenging beliefs and replacing them with more Biblical thoughts. God knows when we are struggling in thought and He takes the emotion of fear and turns it into obedience and then our obedience into rewards. I’ve seen Him do this over and over again in my life. Many of my blessings have first come from the trials.
WritingIt is no ordinary task. Not everyone can sit down and put words onto paper, onto screen effortlessly. Writers are certainly called to do the writing from something that is birthed within them. Writers have the ability to have access to God’s powerful tools to keep their heads held high during rejections, during dry times, during empty checking-accounts seasons. Writers are directors of their own movies and can change the script at any time. For me, I was quite content with submitting articles and maintaining a low profile forum, but just as I’ve become comfortable with article submissions He’s stirring my spirit to do more.
Next adventureOkay Lord, I’ll take this writing thing wherever You desire for me to take it. Book??? No! How? Me? About a million other questions floated across my mind. This is something God and I chatted about years ago; like at least fifteen years ago. I didn’t have time then. I was home-schooling my children and trying to maintain a farm. I have tried over and over again to wave-off this notion of writing a book but it’s been like swatting off a pesky fly; it just keeps coming back. We all know that if God is calling us to write something he will not let us go until we do it. He said the time is NOW!!!DoubtThrough the years that I’ve wrestled with my fear of writing, I still find myself falling into the trap of doubt. Last week, I sank to my kitchen floor sobbing. In between tearful heaves I asked Him for direction and peace. “Jesus, help, I need Your peace,” I cried out. This week I’ve not only picked up the old vision with God, but He even gave me a title. How long will this endeavor take? I don’t know! But I have full confidence that since He has called me to write; He will be faithful to complete it. He who began a good work in you, will be faithful to complete it in you. (Philippians 1:6)
All WritersGod will give you the words, put people in your path, (thanks Edie) and many more loyal writers who have been holding my hand along the way. Join writers groups; critique groups or ask friends to look over what you’ve written. Edie’s web site is chock full of great information for beginner to advanced writers.
What other places have you visited that have helped you stretch your wings and follow God? Be sure to leave your answers in the comments section below.
Blessings,Beth Farley
TWEETABLESWriters & Fear - The Subject Keeps Coming Up - Beth Ann Farley has some tips to keep moving - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
All writers struggle with fear - Beth Ann Farley shares some things to help you cope on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Beth Ann Farley lives in Kansas City, MO with her husband and six grown children and 13 grandchildren. She has written for www.bookfun.org., Toot n’ Town magazine. She has recently been published with Landline magazine, Teachers in Focus, Horse & Rider, Mature Years, Indian Life and Wesleyan Publishing. Her poetry has been featured in Sweet Freedom written by Jennifer Slattery. She has been a guest blogger on thewriteconversation@blogspot.comby Edie Melson and Poppy Smith’s Inspiring Women to Thrive blog. Beth is a co-host on Living by Grace, a faith-based Facebook community. She often writes for the Senior Smart Network; a network devoted to senior citizens. Beth enjoys spending time with family and friends. She loves to tootle around the country side with her husband and their motorcycle. She loves reading, writing in her journal walking her little peek-a-poo named Peek-a-chew and engaging in Women’s’ Bible Studies.
Visit her online at: http://firsthalfday1.wordpress.com.
