Writing Worry #21: Great idea, poor execution

As January comes to a close, I find myself struggling with the claim jumping aliens' story. This 1000 flash fiction is due by January 31. Unfortunately, I am obsessing over it in part because I don't like blowing a challenge and in part because I'm avoiding working on Safe Word.

I love the story in Safe Word. I think the plot unfolds well. I like my characters and want to tell their stories. So what's the problem? I'm worried about screwing it up. 

For the first time, I can actually write the query letter before finishing the last draft of the novel. I've already got a tag line I love. This is a story that might actually sell, or at least get a second look by an agent or editor. However, a second look won't mean much if I don't have the solid writing to captivate the reader.

There's no getting around writing. I've got the first draft. I've re-written the outline and filled in some weak points. I know the actual words need a lot of work to make the novel coherent to someone who isn't inside my head.

That fear of messing up a solid concept is the internal editor/critic. I've dealt with her before. All I need to do is remind myself that there isn't any need to worry because no one (or only a select few at my writing group) will see it. It took me seven drafts before Wolf Creek was ready to share with beta readers. So nothing to worry about yet.

I can just sit back and relax. And most importantly write. 

Speaking of scary but exciting things, I tried ice climbing for the first time today. It was so much fun and not nearly as scary as I thought it would be.