But This Time It’s Different

There comes a time in the writing of every book where I have some variant of the following conversation with either my parents or my best friend:

Me: I’m really worried about this book. I think it has some major flaws.
Them: You say that every time. It always works out.
Me: I know, but this time it’s different. This time I’m really worried.
Them: You say that every time, too.
Me: I know. But this time it’s really different.

And, guess what? They’re right. I do say that every time, I do feel that way every time, and every time it actually does work out.

I’m not sure why this is part of the process (and I don’t think I’m alone in this) but I do think it’s essential. Without it, without worrying whether the writing is there this time, the writing is sure to fail. The fear keeps us striving for that unattainable perfection. It’s the Les Brown quote:

Shoot for the moon and if you miss you will still be among the stars.

If you only shoot for good enough, then you’ll probably land flat back here on earth.

Hugs,
TLC