Bumps in the Night

DAY 57

Word Count: 36,047

Sentence of the Day: How would he explain to a maid why he crouched like an overgrown bird behind his employer's desk while clutching the man's strongbox?

Writing is scary. It's baring your soul to the world, and as a result, opening yourself up to criticism that can sting. But isn't every monumental task scary at first?

Here's what blogger Seth Godin has to say:

"If you're afraid of something, of putting yourself out there,

of creating a kind of connection or a promise,

that's a clue that you're on the right track.

Go, do that."

And you know what? He's absolutely right. That being said, now's the time to do a self inventory about what creeps you out the most in the writing world. Is it submitting a proposal? Starting a blog? Joining a new social media site? Speaking at a writer's group?

Yes, there is a chance you might fail, and fail spectacularly, but does failure always mean defeat? Nope. I suggest that the definition of failure (lack of success) should be changed to an opportunity to try again.

Fear is debilitating. It will cripple you faster than a high dive onto cement pavement. But guess what? It's a handicap that's completely avoidable as long as you tuck this verse in your back pocket and whip it out every time you feel a shiver skittering up your spine...

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you.

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Isaiah 41:10

So go for it. Whatever fear that's keeping you hiding under the covers just isn't worth the sweat it creates.