Why do we do what we do?

I ask myself this question over and over. All too often the answer is because someone else told me that's what I'm supposed to do as an author. It seems I have to learn the hard way to listen to my instincts and not the "so-called" experts. Maybe they know what they're talking about when it comes to what spells happiness and success for them, but most of the time it makes me feel absolutely miserable.

You may wonder what in the world I'm talking about. At the moment I'm not sure I have the energy to go into all the details. Let's just say I'm tired of following other people's formulas for being a successful author. In fact, I don't want to be an author anymore. I just want to be a writer again.

Who cares about selling dumb books?

Not me. Not if it means I have to play the hustle game all the time and never have the energy to enjoy the writing process.

In order to do that I'm not going to worry about any kind of social media agenda anymore. If I feel like posting something, I will. If I don't, I won't. Instead of worrying about all that nonsense, I'm going back to that simpler time when it was just about the writing.

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 - and return comments. This group is all about connecting!

The awesome co-hosts for the June 1 posting of the IWSG are SE White, Cathrina Constantine, Natalie Aguire, Joylene Nowell Butler, and Jacqui Murray! Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say. Remember, the question is optional! June 1 question - When the going gets tough writing the story, how do you keep yourself writing to the end? If have not started the writing yet, why do you think that is and what do you think could help you find your groove and start?

Currently, I'm trying something new. I've put off writing the third book in my series for almost four years. In order to push myself to finish, I'm posting the chapters on StoryOrigin for beta readers a chapter a day until the end. I'm currently up to chapter 15 or 16.

If you're interested in joining the beta readers pushing me forward (and you don't have to have read the first 2 books to do so!) you can REQUEST A BETA COPY today.

Now that I've reached the harder chapters, it's more like a chapter every two days, but it is still helping me move forward.