IWSG - September

Purpose: 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!

Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time.

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Confession: I have resisted IWSG since its inception.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m friends with its founder, administrators, and many, many members. I think it’s a great idea, and I’ve always supported everyone participating—it’s just that I, personally, haven’t allowed myself to partake.

Why? I’m one of those people who have to be doing a million things at warp speed. Stopping long enough to dwell on my insecurities would halt progress and send me into a discouraging thought spiral (not to mention counteract my Paxil). So why bother?

I held up for years using this admittedly unhealthy mantra, until a few friends gave me a not-so-gentle push. (You know who you are! LOL)

It actually came at just the right time, because—as most of you have probably noticed—I recently disappeared from the blogosphere for a few weeks. It was my first unannounced hiatus since 2011, and that killed me, but I just couldn’t keep up with it all anymore. I was burned out. Done.

Thankfully, since then, I’ve managed to get a few projects under control and even redid my office! A change in atmosphere (and attitude) was just what I needed. :)

Question of the Week

Do you tend to bottle things up or share with others?