Today is October's contribution to
Alex Cavanaugh's Insecure Writers Support Group.
Why am I an Insecure Writer this month?
Because I have such little control over life.
As writers, we’re used to a lack of control. Maybe our obligations don’t allow us enough time to write. Maybe the words don’t come when we sit down in front of the computer. Maybe no agent will respond to our queries. Maybe no one will buy our book once it’s published.
But for the past couple of weeks, I’ve been f thinking about how little control we have over our non-writing lives.
Three weeks ago I learned my project at work was ending, which meant everyone in my group would have to find new positions within the company (not an easy feat) or be cut loose. Needless to say, all my energies were focused on finding a new job. Fortunately, I found a position elsewhere within the company, but for a couple of weeks, the future was pretty dark and scary. It’s one thing if no one wants to buy your book, but it’s another if no one wants to hire you. (Unless you’re a full time writer, of course, where the two options are one and the same.)
If that wasn’t enough, my daughter has been going through some tough times at school. After being bullied at the end of last year, the idea of returning to school bothered her all summer. Making it through a whole day of school is an ordeal for her, and she’s already missed several days due to anxiety. She’s slowly fighting her way through it, and I’m proud of her for not giving up, but there’s only so much I can do to help and that’s hard for a parent to deal with.
As a result, I haven’t spent much time writing, or keeping up with this blog, or keeping up with everyone else’s blog. I expect that to change somewhat now that my job situation is headed back toward stability again, but it’s darned scary to know how quickly life can overwhelm you.
Maybe Alex should start an
Insecure Person Support Group too. It's not like you have to be a writer to be insecure.
What non-writing insecurities are you dealing with?
ChemistKen
