Time to Stop Talking and Start Doing
by Lisa A Kramer, in Writing
I have a confession to make. I am a big dreamer who accomplishes a lot of things, but when it comes to that last push--the scariest step--I often stop before I try.
However, over the past few weeks or months something is shifting inside me. The other day, when I went to a Paint Night event (which involves drinking and painting, although I didn't drink) I made a discovery. Sometimes you just have to let go and have faith in yourself and your creativity.
[caption id="attachment_7359" align="aligncenter" width="584"]
My painting from Paint Night.[/caption]
Yet too often, despite the fact that I know I have abilities and can carry out anything I set my mind to, I only go so far before I build walls that I cannot pass.
What do you mean, you ask? I can give you several examples. I finished a solid draft of my manuscript THE POWER OF WORDS months and months ago. I've had readers of all ages read and respond with glowing words. I promised myself I would send it out to agents on a regular basis, and make a true commitment to trying to get this baby published through traditional means first while getting more comfortable with the possibility of self-publishing.
I have submitted to a grand total of ONE (yes 1 agent) and then found numerous reasons not to send it to more. I'll wait a bit and see if she bites, I said to myself, knowing that this was a ridiculous thing to do--and that the chances of the first agent on my list would show any interest were slim. So the real reason behind my non-submission was the usual one--FEAR!
Another example, I've wanted to create a theatre company/education program for years and years. I'm tired of working my butt off for everyone else and having to jump through hoops for very little reward (either financially or recognition wise--and some of the rewards that come from good work are overshadowed by bureaucracy). If I am going to work for passion without making a lot of money, I'd at least like to be in control of my destiny. Yet, despite having this dream for years and years I've found every excuse in the book to avoid achieving it.
Enough is enough! I am tired of being my own worst enemy. I am tired of getting in my own way. So I am taking the leap toward achieving many, if not all, of my dreams.
How?
I am in charge of my own destiny. Are you?
However, over the past few weeks or months something is shifting inside me. The other day, when I went to a Paint Night event (which involves drinking and painting, although I didn't drink) I made a discovery. Sometimes you just have to let go and have faith in yourself and your creativity.
[caption id="attachment_7359" align="aligncenter" width="584"]
My painting from Paint Night.[/caption]Yet too often, despite the fact that I know I have abilities and can carry out anything I set my mind to, I only go so far before I build walls that I cannot pass.
What do you mean, you ask? I can give you several examples. I finished a solid draft of my manuscript THE POWER OF WORDS months and months ago. I've had readers of all ages read and respond with glowing words. I promised myself I would send it out to agents on a regular basis, and make a true commitment to trying to get this baby published through traditional means first while getting more comfortable with the possibility of self-publishing.
I have submitted to a grand total of ONE (yes 1 agent) and then found numerous reasons not to send it to more. I'll wait a bit and see if she bites, I said to myself, knowing that this was a ridiculous thing to do--and that the chances of the first agent on my list would show any interest were slim. So the real reason behind my non-submission was the usual one--FEAR!
Another example, I've wanted to create a theatre company/education program for years and years. I'm tired of working my butt off for everyone else and having to jump through hoops for very little reward (either financially or recognition wise--and some of the rewards that come from good work are overshadowed by bureaucracy). If I am going to work for passion without making a lot of money, I'd at least like to be in control of my destiny. Yet, despite having this dream for years and years I've found every excuse in the book to avoid achieving it.
Enough is enough! I am tired of being my own worst enemy. I am tired of getting in my own way. So I am taking the leap toward achieving many, if not all, of my dreams.
How?
- I am starting a company called heArtful Theatre Company with my friend Jannatha. We will begin by teaching a few classes and getting our name out there, then we will eventually find a space and start producing work as well as expanding. This will be a company about using the arts to share our stories (the stories of the community) and grow as people.
- I am determined to make more of an effort to submit my manuscript. Suggestions for agents are always welcome, or any advice you can give.
- It's time to expand my writing goals, so I will be writing and submitting to contests whenever and wherever I can find them. If anyone knows of a good one, please let me know.
- I am going to leap into any creative or adventurous opportunity that comes my way, because the more creative things I do, the more ideas I have for writing, living, loving, and taking chances.
I am in charge of my own destiny. Are you?
