My Journey to Become a Writer 02/05/2024 Post #36

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What Did I Accomplish Today to Be a Writer?

I’m continuing to build a body of work by doing a brain dump every morning. Today, I completed Day 36 of the 100 Words a Day Writing Challenge 2024 through LA Writer’s Lab.  

I was reminded again that there aren’t supposed to be two spaces after a period any more. That period in time is over. Period.

*Editor’s Note: I had to backspace to correct that last sentence. This is a habit I don’t think I can be punctual about breaking. It’s going to take some time. By the way – what’s the rule on a colon, can I still use two spaces there?

What Am I Afraid of Doing Next in My Journey as a Writer?

I’m scared of being exposed. I started sending my manuscript out to more people today, and it feels far too vulnerable at times; but that’s all part of the process – taking the plunge.

Stuff I find myself saying: I can’t believe we’re going to try to have this book published on Amazon before February 26th.

– Jody Susan

I’ve been working on this manuscript since 2019, and writing it in my head for much longer than that. Here it is, 2024, and I still feel like it’s too soon to put it out for the world to see.

How Am I Balancing the Different Aspects of Being a Writer?

Today I met with Lori Overmyer, who heads up the Wabash Writer’s Group and has graciously offered to help corral my overactive list of ideas, and also help me start the publishing process. She narrowed down my extensive list of things to do, making a short list for the next three weeks that is both daunting and doable. This has helped me hone in on what needs to be done first, so I’m not just floundering.

What I’m Doing About Building a Body of Work as a Writer

I’ve begun to consult with people that I mention in my manuscript to get their feedback on places they’re involved in the story.

What I’m Doing to Complete My Manuscripts as a Writer

After my meeting with Lori Overmyer I went over to my Amazon Author’s Page and uploaded a picture. I wanted to remain pretty anonymous before; but I guess I ought to have a better bio. The picture isn’t appearing yet, so either I need to clear my cache’, or I did something wrong. Probably a mix of both.

Wow, it’s hard not to add two spaces after a period.

What I’m Doing to Grow My Website as a Writer

Today I contacted someone about meeting with me to add WooCommerce, Stripe and PayPal, so that I can sell my books and offer services on my website. I’m also hoping to address my site speed issues, and several other little tweaks that ought be done.

What I’m Doing to Build My Blog as a Writer

I nearly forgot to post this tonight, since my head was spinning. Good thing my alarm clock went off to remind me.

Not so Fun Fact About Me: It is painful for me to not put two spaces after a period.

What I’m Doing About Networking as a Writer

Today I met with my memoir group where we gave feedback too three members who read part of their work.

I also met with Lori Overmyer about partnering together to get my manuscript ready for publication.

What I’m Doing About Monetization as a Writer

Getting my books out on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Audible, and iTunes seems a lot more doable since meeting with Lori today, so we’ll see if I can start at least breaking even on this website/book thing.

What I’m Doing About Social Media as a Writer

I’m realizing I probably have to finally face social media and step through that door in all my awkwardness. I know it’s important to publishers that the authors they choose have means for promoting their own work. I guess it’s time to take a deep breath and be brave about it.

What I’m Doing About Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a Writer

I’m having Lori Overmyer help me write my bio, instead of Chat GPT, which had been suggested to me previously.

What I’m Doing to Stay Organized as a Writer

I’m making lists – lots of lists. Hopefully soon I can find a binder to store all these lists in a more sensible order. I also made a call to a CPA so that I can make sure I’m doing business transactions correctly – and keeping records the right way.

Looking Back at My Writing Journey

I can’t believe I’m probably about to get this book published – at least self-published. It’s a very surreal feeling.

Any Other Thoughts on Becoming a Writer, Random Rants, Tales, or Trials…

I’m grateful to God for giving me this story. There have been devastating parts; but it is a blessing to see how He gives beauty for ashes, when we willingly surrender our ruins to His kind hands.

Thanks for reading what I’m writing,

Jody Susan

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