I'm So Embarrassed!

Just 200 words. Let's discuss...

My sister-in-law told me this week she reads every article I publish.

My husband’s family was sitting around the table, enjoying a birthday celebration when she announced this.

I publish my work to be read, obviously.

I even knew she was one of my followers on Medium.

But when she started referencing specific stories…I felt like crawling under the table and hiding.

Do you get that writerly push pull too?

“I want my work to be read by thousands!”

“Oh no, you read that? Please stop.”

Then there are those days you hit publish and you’re all: “This is the best thing I’ve ever written!”

Only to wake up at 5am in a sweat thinking, “What have I done! That story is awful.”

You’re not alone.

Over the years, I’ve come up with a small mantra? rule?—one of those—that helps me.

“Don’t show anyone for 24 hours.”

No-one.

Not even my feedback group.

When I break this rule, I often regret it.

24 hours gives you time to hate your piece. And to fix it!

And if you’ve ever hit publish and then felt embarrassed, know you’re in good company.

I’m right there—hiding under the table with you.

Happy writing!

Kelly xx

P.S. Writing Club for March is in full swing and I’m loving it! Let me know if you want your name penciled in for April. We are already a quarter full!