Church helped me today, to stop obsessing about perfection. We all do it. Writers are obsessed with perfecting their stories, and publishing exacerbates the worries to sell something, sell more, sell bigger. For those who, like me, definitely don’t have a salesperson’s personality, this pressure to sell can overtake the real reason we write in the first place. In church, I felt supported by my community, encouraged by God’s belief in me, and comforted by unseen arms. Whatever spiritual place you run to for comfort when the pressure gets too great, also remember the reason you write. Me, I believe I’m called to write, but you might see your writing as creative outlet, stress-reducing therapy or even fun. Imagine that–writing because it’s fun!
Writing Tip for Today: Perfection is the enemy of production. Perfection tells you to take up knitting rather than write. It says you’ll never get it right. By giving yourself permission to get your ideas down without censoring, you can beat the voice in your head that says what you write is never good enough. A little spiritual boost now and then might help too. When you are stuck, frustrated or blocked, get in touch with your spiritual side. Take comfort in the beauty around you, the mystery and wonder that prompts you to express your take on the world. Then write like the wind.