Facing Fear and Trusting One’s Self

Earlier this week I finished my first draft of my current work-in-progress.  A major step, yes, but only one in the whole process. I’m a skeletal writer, first drafts usually only have the structure. The scenes are mapped out, dialogue is there (Though often with little more than the occasional tag to keep the speakers straight.) I know there’s work still to do, but I should be able to enjoy what’s been accomplished.

Why is this so hard for me?

I’ve been thinking about this a lot the latter half of this week, and I’ve come to the conclusion it’s fear. Fear is a nasty thing, it can undermine success and paralyze progress. But what exactly do I fear? I’m no where near ready to begin submissions on this project. With some self-analysis, I’ve come to the conclusion I’m afraid of the well going dry, that this is the last story I have to tell.

I’ve yet to figure out why I feel that way. I’ve really never had a shortage of concepts or scenarios. I can take almost any situation I see and find ‘a story’ in it. Can witness two people having coffee and create their whole backstory, the twisted secret that is keeping them apart–or maybe the one that will shatter their perfect little existence if the other learns of it. For example: For months I’ve considered this work-in-progress a stand alone. One story. No room for squeal or series. A singular story to tell. However, just one day after typing ‘the end’ on the draft I was in the car (yes, all the best thinking happens while I’m driving) and it hit me like a flash — the opening scene for ‘book two’.  I’ve made some notes, and will probably write a synopsis, but as a rule I don’t write ‘sequels’ until there’s a call for it.

The point is, I think, that a lot fear comes from self doubt. The best thing we can do, aside from straight-up facing it, is learn to trust ourselves.

If you can remind yourself: “I’m capable. I can do this.” the rest is easy.