If you could turn back time...

Tip of the Day: if you want a good laugh, read your old blog entries!

Somehow last night I got to reading old blog messages from some of my previous blogs, and after reading each entry the only thing I could think was how niave I was.

Picture from: http://screen2scrap.blogspot.com/2011_01_01_archive.html

At that time I thought publishing would be as simple as writing a book, getting an agent, and then magically having my books on shelves. My head was still in tact, so it's not like I thought it wouldn't be hard work or anything. But I never imagined it would be more than six years later and I still haven't made much progress. I've had a lot of close calls and lots of great feedback, but no books on the shelves.

In that six years I've lived in three states, four different locations, and had six different jobs. The only constant has been trying to be the best writer I can be and trying to get published. And to some extent I've succeeded. I'm a much better writer. My characters are more developed and my storylines are more complete. But I still don't have much to show for it.

And that stinks. Plus, it's a huge reminder that not everything works out exactly like you plan.

I think all new writers have a bit of youthful nature in them, no matter how old they are when they start seeking publication. They think they can conquer the world and make a difference, and they love to dream big.

In fact, they remind me a lot of teenagers.

But that niavity and drive is one of the main reasons why I love writing for teenagers. Everything at that age is a new discovery and teens have such passion to make their dreams become realities.

That's also probably why if I could somehow turn back time and talk to my New Writer self, the only thing I would tell myself is to never give up and keep dreaming. Because all of that discovery, making mistacts, and learning new things has made this journey to publication very exciting. Sure I've felt like pulling my hair out on many occasions, but all good stories have to include a bit of drama and some good hair pulling!

--Emily, Miss Querylicious