Tuesday, January 7, 2014

IWSG: New Dreams & Goals

Today is IWSG day. We usually post the first Wednesday of the month but the first Wednesday was New Year's Day and we figured you'd be sleeping ... or traveling.

IWSG stands for Insecure Writers Support Group and was founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. You can follow other IWSG members here  and on twitter using the hashtag #IWSG.

Our purpose is to share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds.
2014 is the beginning of NEW. We can start from scratch with our dreams, goals and manuscripts. Hey, believe it or not, it's a writer's world out there. Ours for the taking. Some people think writers have never had it so good.

Don't bring your 2013 baggage (negative thoughts, self-pity, poor-me attitude) into this year. Start fresh with a positive attitude. Finish those stories and novels, then start new ones--immediately.

The key to success is confidence in yourself, showing no fear, and knowing what you want. Traditional publishing? I heard recently that the chances of getting your digital rights back are pretty slim. Does that matter to you? Since books can sell on Amazon forever, maybe it should.

So you might add another key to success: educating yourself. Know exactly what you're getting from traditional publishers and what a small press or self-publishing has for you. Believe me, they differ.

It's a new year ... and a new publishing world. Grab hold of both  ... with both hands.
And hang on!

Happy 2014. I wish you every success.

11 comments:

Unknown said...

You're absolutely right about traditional publishing. They used to be the only game in town and really took advantage of it. But now a writer has choices -- IF they make an effort to understand the industry. Wishing you achieve all your goals in 2014! :)

Laura Clipson said...

A positive attitude can work wonders if you allow yourself to be optimistic.

SK Anthony said...

I like this! Let's start fresh and make it happen ;)

The difference is huge with traditional publishing, indeed. I think as authors we have to educate ourselves and be prepared to make tough decisions when it comes to the way we want to 'run our business'.

Diane Burton said...

Love your positive message. Best wishes for a great year.

Cindy W. said...

Such timely advice about publishing. I do agree that education is the key. The more you know about all the options out there, the more likely you are to make the right decision.

Charity Bradford said...

It IS a new year. I love the idea of leaving all of last years mistakes and heartaches behind and jumping in with high hopes.

Happy writing and good luck to you in all your endeavors!

Anonymous said...

I'm doing my best to leave all the negative stuff from 2013 in 2013. I want to make 2014 a great writing year. =)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Know what you want and drop the baggage - check!

Lynn said...

YAY for the New Year and thanks for the tips and inspiration!!!!

J.L. Campbell said...

Hi, Jess,

Good advice. There's nothing like being educated and having a positive attitude. Thanks!

Anonymous said...

Good Advice...all around.

Thanks.

Leanne ( http://readfaced.wordpress.com/ )