Reviews from

Writing Journey

Viewing comments for Chapter 8 "Not sure what to do!"
Help with writing, mine and yours.

40 total reviews 
Comment from Brett Matthew West
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Sounds like you are branching out with these opportunities. They can not help but garner more recognition.

My suggestion would be ride them for what they are worth. If they do not pan out nothing says you have to keep doing them. They can be some of the benefits of being a published author.

Who knows, you may enjoy them, though you are probably correct at them being much more like work.


 Comment Written 06-Sep-2024


reply by the author on 06-Sep-2024
    I'm leaning towards the shorts. After that, I'll reassess and see. My publisher is supposed to have the information to me next week, so I can make a more informed decision. I wanted it all in writing. Thank you for your support.
Comment from Paul McFarland
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It sounds like things are looking up, Barb. I taught school for ten years, and that has helped me to perform to a large group. I think you will do fine. I think you should continue with Kevin's plan. Don't put any pressure on yourself. If it works, fine. If it doesn't, it will have been a great experience.

 Comment Written 02-Sep-2024


reply by the author on 02-Sep-2024
    Thank you for the support. I'm leaning towards the YouTube shorts, then see where it goes.
Comment from Rachelle Allen
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I think so many of us on here are one-on-one people. I'm exactly the same as you: I can easily run a classroom, I can easily write, but function well in a large group? Um, Recital Day only...and that's only because I'm in charge of every aspect of it. The "unknown" is a killer for our type.

I can understand your reservations and worries, so I think The Big Question is this: Can you live with the regret if you DON'T do it, Barbara? Will you be okay to look back, let's say, ten years from now, and think, "It's okay that I didn't push myself past my comfort zone." If the answer is, "Yes," then choose Door Number One - staying put and not venturing into the abyss. If the answer is, "No, I will feel disappointed in myself," then you know what you have to do.

Challenges affect us differently at different times in our lives. There is no shame in that; it's just "the way it is." I'll be eager to learn your decision. I'm sending you so much love today; this can't be easy.
xoxox

 Comment Written 01-Sep-2024


reply by the author on 01-Sep-2024
    I am moving towards the YouTube shorts and then seeing how it goes before I go farther. Does that make sense. Thank you for the support.
Comment from tfawcus
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Unless you need the writing as a second income, I'd be wary of something that could convert a pleasure into a chore. On the other hand, it's not a one-way street. You can always give it a go, and if you find you're not enjoying the journey, there's nothing to stop you from doing a U-turn later on.
Congratulations on having achieved so much. I'm ten years older than you and my decision would be an easier one. I'm strictly in it for the pleasure of the thing.

 Comment Written 31-Aug-2024


reply by the author on 01-Sep-2024
    We don't need the money so that's not part of the equation. I'm leaning towards the YouTube shorts and then see how it feels. I appreciate the support.
Comment from Brenda Strauser
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Hi, I am new to Fanstory. I'll let to give you my opinion. I would be so excited to move up to the next level you are talking about. I would choose the one you're most comfortable with at this time. Good luck with your success!!

 Comment Written 31-Aug-2024


reply by the author on 01-Sep-2024
    I'm leaning towards the YouTube shorts and then see how it feels. I appreciate the support.
Comment from Neonewman
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Barbara, I think you should consider this. Most authors are shy, and I think folks have come to expect this. I would be terrified if an offer like this came about, but excited. You are a fantastic talent; I don't believe your muse would disappoint you.

You have much to offer, my friend, and I've learned quite a bit from you. I honestly don't feel that your craft would no longer be fun once you step into this arena. I think it will propel you forward in a positive, exciting manner.

My advice: Don't over think it, you're probably your own worst critic. Go into it with no inhibitions and enjoy the fun.

God bless,
Steve

 Comment Written 31-Aug-2024


reply by the author on 01-Sep-2024
    I'm leaning towards the YouTube shorts and then see how it feels. I appreciate the support.
reply by Neonewman on 01-Sep-2024
    Sweet, let me know how this goes for you.
reply by the author on 01-Sep-2024
    Sure will. Next week my publisher, in writing, is supposed to share with me all the details of each, so I can study and make my final decision.
reply by Neonewman on 02-Sep-2024
    Keep me in the loop. I am interested in seeing which one you choose.
Comment from Ric Myworld
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Like you, I'm almost 70, and we aren't getting any younger. So, what have you got to be afraid of? I mean, this is the last phase of our lives, so, give it all you've got. Who wants to go out with nothing to remember us by but what friends and family have to say. People love your books, so promote them all you can as long as you're able. Best of luck! :-)

 Comment Written 31-Aug-2024


reply by the author on 01-Sep-2024
    I'm leaning towards the YouTube shorts and then see how it feels. I appreciate the support.
Comment from EeanBlack
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If you've read me, you know I'm a hack. You are living that dream and you are only 70. I want a Kevin and can't even find Bob. As far as the shorts, yes. The morning tele will be easy, you're talking about something you loved enough to put your soul into it. You'll be fine. And a hero!

 Comment Written 30-Aug-2024


reply by the author on 31-Aug-2024
    Thank you for the support.
reply by EeanBlack on 31-Aug-2024
    Let the comunity know. We need heroes to give us hope.
Comment from lancellot
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Well, to be honest, if you're publishing and selling your books (for money), doing signings, and shows, then it is not a hobby. It's a job and has been for some time. So, in for a penny, in for a pound. Go for it.

 Comment Written 30-Aug-2024


reply by the author on 30-Aug-2024
    Thank you for your support. Right, now I have control over it all. I'm not sure if I continue, I will. I'm considering the YouTube shorts and then reevaluate.
Comment from Carol Hillebrenner
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This is a tough one. I have the same problem as you about being shy. For the UTube shorts, will you be pictured as you read the shorts, or will they just be printed shorts? Either shouldn't be that difficult as you won't have a live audience. The talk show interviews may seem difficult, but almost always the host knows how to help you feel more comfortable. Take along a copy of each of your books to give yourself courage. You can do it a little like classroom kids do show and tell. I would do the bookstore because you have so many books in print. You can think of it as a profession, or just enjoy it while it lasts. I had a friend who thought of it that way and ended up touring with a few very professional writers. She had lots of fun.

 Comment Written 29-Aug-2024


reply by the author on 30-Aug-2024
    I'm considering the YouTube shorts and then reevaluate. Thank you for the support.