Fears, Rational and Otherwise

1. Maybe I misread the email...
I've reread it a thousand times, and shown it my husband and son. It's not likely to change.
2. Maybe the email wasn't really for me...
But it's got my name and the name of my novel on it.
3. Maybe I'll invalidate the contract somehow--misspell my name or something...
So I'll get my husband to check it before it goes out.
4. Maybe I'll address the envelope wrong...
But the address is online, on the contract and in the email; I've lots to chances to make sure it's right, and my husband will certainly help.
5. Maybe my writing's not good enough, and the novel will just get worse the more I edit...
But they thought it was good enough to make me an offer...
6. Maybe the editor won't like me...
But the publisher does, so I know they'll choose someone just right...
7. Maybe...

All those irrational fears are jumbling around in my head. Just sign the contract and get it sent back and STOP WORRYING!

But maybe that tickling feeling is a spider on my leg. Now, there's something rational to worry me.

Comments

Cherie Reich said…
Breathe, just breathe. It'll be okay. :)

I know what you mean though. My biggest fear once I signed the contract for ONCE UPON A DECEMBER NIGHTMARE was whether or not I'll be able to do the edits right. What if they ask more than I know as a writer? But I had a great editor who pushed me to make the story better, even if sometimes her suggestions hurt my pride as a writer. It made the story better. It made me a better writer, and I honestly couldn't write the story better at that point in my writing skills.

Publishers don't pick your work unless they see something there. You can do it, and it'll be great. :)
November 16, 2010 at 4:53 PM
Sheila Deeth said…
Thanks Cherie!

With Thanksgiving intervening, I get back to the computer and wonder if I can still write. I'm really looking forward to editing, most of the time, except when those fears creep in...
November 30, 2010 at 5:09 PM
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