Call for submissions — let’s talk about the pressure to stand out

The holidays got me thinking about how much pressure we put on ourselves to buy gifts, host family or travel to visit family.

As writers and creatives, we put a lot of pressure on ourselves to create. We want people to acknowledge our work and that’s not the easiest thing to do.

So let’s talk about pressure. How are you coping with the pressure to stand out? Are you doing something or have you done something you didn’t think you would just to get some more attention? How are you maintaining the integrity of your art while still trying to step outside of your comfort zone?

Some thought starters

I believe a little bit of pressure is good for artists. It keeps us on edge. Here are some possibilities to consider when submitting your stories:

You’re an indie author and you’ve paid a PR firm to bring attention to your book. How did that work out?You feel pressure to make money so you do projects you hate but that pay really well.You’re someone who really just wants to write (or paint, take photos, design, etc.) and are turned off by all the other things you have to do to bring attention to your work. You know that attention will lead to more opportunities so you can get rewarded financially for what you love. How do you find balance in this situation?

We’re also open to read stories about the pressure you put on yourself in general. What’s driving you to keep creating?

Instructions

If you’re already a writer on CRY, simply submit your drafts.

If you’re not yet a writer on CRY, reply to this letter or leave me a note in the comment section and I’ll add you.

Looking forward to reading all your submissions!

CRY

Call for submissions — let’s talk about the pressure to stand out was originally published in C.R.Y on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.