All Writers Are at Least a Little Insecure

Today marks an exciting occasion--this is my first post for the Insecure Writer's Support Group. If you haven't heard of this group, check it out. The first Wednesday of each month, the IWSG meets for the sole purpose of supporting and encouraging each other. What writer can't use a little support every now and then?


When you start writing, you're so focused on finding an agent and publisher, you rarely think beyond that initial goal. You assume that once you're published, red carpets will roll out and you'll be whisked away to the Hollywood premiere of the movie version of your bestseller.


But that doesn't happen. The date of your book release approaches and...guess what? You have no idea what you're doing.


Doctors prepare for years for their first surgery. They practice. They study. They watch mentors. Writers prepare for years to become better writers. Booksignings? School visits? Interviews with local publications? Notsomuch.


So you play it by ear, but all the while you're sure everyone else knows what they're doing but you. As you go to conferences and network with other published authors, however, you realize that's not at all true. In fact, very few published authors know what to do in the weeks leading up to release day. This goes for traditionally-published authors, as well as those who are self published. All you can do is ask for advice and play it by ear and hope you aren't doing it all wrong.

If you'd like to join in on the IWSG, add your link here and post your blog the first Wednesday of each month. It's a wonderful, supportive group.