What is blocking you from publishing your picture book?

 
Worry or fear can take the joy out of life. Most of us can find enough things to worry about, without adding 'wanting to be a published author' to the list. Paying bills, saving for a house, buying a new car, beating the high cost of living, the difficulties of bringing up children, problems of personal health and the precarious international situation – these are only a few of the things I worry about. I used to let worrying stop be from following my dream of being a published picture book author. I suffered from "what if-itis."
It is simply not true that some people have nothing to be concerned about. One wonderful thing I have learnt if that my life will never be free from trouble. I am a mother for goodness sake!!!
Worry shouldn't hold you back from doing the things you really want to do.  Don’t be fearful of making plans and decisions, but keep in mind that things change. My publishing career has not turned out what bit how I thought it would, but I wouldn't change a thing. I have learned such valuable lessons and made wonderful life-long friends. I don't like using the word 'journey' since Ricky Martin claimed it, but it is a 'one foot in front of the other' scenario.
 
My eldest child is a terrible worrier, and finds it very hard to go to sleep. Lots of reassuring pats and soft words are need to calm his mind enough to let his brain switch off long enough for him to close his eyes and regulate his breathing. One thing that really works is telling him, "dont worry, your worries will be there in the morning" which I guess isn't in the parental textbook, but it works. All your worries about 'what if' or 'what next' will still be there after you take the dive and send your manuscript to publishers. Worry about getting it published first, then worry about the other worries later.

I wish I could take your worries away for you, but I can't. I can only wish you the strength and grace to push through to the pride and peace that awaits you on the other side. If I can be a published author, so can you.

Talk soon
x Michelle

www.michelleworthington.com
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