My Inner Critic Now has a DEADLINE!

I have a confession. I am an over-researcher and an relentless self-critic. My friends call me a perfectionist (but only when it comes to my manuscripts.) That is not a positive trait. When the inner voice begins to nag, the creative juices ooze to the paper with the speed of molasses. The voice whispers in my ear, “Surely there is more to learn about the subject, more layers to inject before putting a spit shine to the pages.” I should name this inner nag so that I can more intimately negotiate a compromise with him. (Him? Is there a therapist in the house?)

My current nonfiction project is one that I am so passionate about, I am afraid of not doing justice to the subject. I’ve written and rewritten the first three chapters numerous times. An agent asked to see these chapters last year. Yet I continue to research and revise. I want them perfect. I want my words to suck the reader into the story and hold them hostage with emotion. Meanwhile, the calendar pages turn.

Yesterday, dear friends came to the rescue and dished out a tough love that only fellow writers can understand. Debbie Gonzales, Carmen Oliver, and Cynthia Leitich Smith pushed me to set a deadline. My proposal and sample chapters will be submitted to the agent goddess by April 30th. Mark your calendars!

Quote for the Day: “Write Something That May Change Your Life.”—John Truby, from his book,The Anatomy of Story: 22 Steps to Becoming a Master Storyteller.

One Response to “My Inner Critic Now has a DEADLINE!”

  1. carmenoliver

    Happy joy dance! The date is in writing and out there for the world to see. I’m so proud of you! I can’t wait to see the finished result.