Two Years a Full-Time Writer!

It was two years ago today that I was fortunate to leave a day job that I hated, and begin a second career as a full-time writer. Looking back at those two years and ahead at the years to come, I can see what I've done right and what I could have done better. And what I want to do as I embark on my third year - and beyond.

As soon as I left the day job, I was determined not to waste this chance I'd been given to do what I loved all day, instead of snatching bits of time writing romances in the evening or weekends. I wrote several books and novellas for my publishers as well as jumping into the indie waters. I also ended up with aching wrists and anxiety from learning the business end which is not at all my strength. I watched some authors soaring up the charts and tried to follow the steps to follow them. Instead, I burned out a bit and because I had promised myself I would not let my new career become as stressful as the one I left behind - in my second year of writing I cut way back...

And only completed one new short story. I had edits and re-released a couple of old stories I'd gotten the rights back to. I made lots of plans but didn't follow through. I told myself it was because I didn't want my writing to become stressful, but partly, I think I needed to refill the well after that crazy first year. But I also think I was intimidated by all those successful authors who were writing 10K a day and releasing a new book every month. And I knew I couldn't do that. So I didn't do much at all.

I know it's wrong to compare. I know I need to stop doing that. Just because I can't write 10K a day (my wrists would never let me even if my eyes and brain would) it doesn't mean I can't write 1 or 2K. I don't need to be a best-seller (although it would be nice) but I want to find new readers because I love my books and characters, and I want other readers to experience their stories too.

So this year, I need to find a balance. I want to write the stories I enjoy. I want to find a sustainable word output that won't burn me out, but allow me to finish all those books I have in my head. I want to remember the joy of writing and not forget that I GET to do this. I GET to write the stories that move me. This year I want to complete those books I've started. Polish them until they shine. And find a way to reach more readers who I hope will want to keep falling in love along with my heroes and heroines.

Here's to year number three! I hope you'll join me on the journey!

Natasha
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The Cottage Next Door
Her Royal Masquerade
Bound to Surrender
www.natashamoore.com

5 comments:

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Vonda Sinclair said...

Fantastic, inspiring post, Natasha! Wishing you all the best in your career!

Natasha Moore said...

Thanks, Vonda!

Tamara Hunter said...

Good for you, Natasha! You can do it!!!

Natasha Moore said...

Thanks, Tamara!