Comments on: Removing Doubt

By: Lori

Lori — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 18:19:49 +0000

Devon, there's imagery! LOL I shall forever remember to, er, step back. 🙂

By: Devon Ellington

Devon Ellington — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:11:51 +0000

I call them the Doubt Demons. They often attack when you're overextended and overtired, and then someone makes their disorganization your emergency.

Just remember you don't have to take the cow pattie someone's flinging at your face. You can step back and let it land on the ground.

Remember what a small percentage can survive and thrive doing what we do, and that you're one of them.

By: Lori

Lori — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:06:14 +0000

It is that combination, isn't it, Sharon? It's okay as long as we're cruising along at light speed without a speed bump, but oh, those bumps hurt at that velocity!

By: Sharon Hurley Hall

Sharon Hurley Hall — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 22:17:03 +0000

Oh, we all get that sometimes, don't we? The combination of overwork, stress and a critical client can bring those doubts rushing to the surface. Sometimes you just have to step away from the computer and find a change of scene, then come back, look at your testimonials and recommendations and remind yourself that you're good at what you do. (Of course, we all make mistakes, so sometimes it's about accepting an error and moving on.

By: Lori

Lori — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:42:04 +0000

Nita, fill that folder with all the good things. :) And I hear you on the client who fussed to avoid payment - oldest trick in the book, isn't it?

Anne, LOL! Love it. Wade, you should definitely follow her advice!

By: Wade Finnegan

Wade Finnegan — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:29:31 +0000

Anne- too funny 🙂 Ya, I'm a reading specialist at the high school level. Writing is my side job, for now.

By: Anne Wayman

Anne Wayman — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:24:16 +0000

Calling a supportive friend works… so does looking at my credit list…

Wade – write "I am a good writer" 100 times on the white board! Didn't know you're also a teacher!

By: Nita C

Nita C — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:51:58 +0000

I like the idea of having a "Kudos" folder. Last year in November I had a client I decided to write for that stated I wrote fluff. When I started out four years ago, yeah I did write fluff, but I learned from quality feedback and a sweet editor, how not to write fluff. Turns out, the client just didn't want to pay the amount I had quoted him. Great post!

By: Lori

Lori — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:29:21 +0000

I like that approach too, Damaria. You can talk yourself back to feeling better about your skills when a friend is helping.

Cathy, you're so right. One stumble is NOT the end of the world. It's just a stumble, and a lot of times it's just miscommunication or someone else's control issues.

Wade, it wasn't your insecurities - it was your absolute knack for uncovering those things we need to deal with. :) I think you're on to something with the personal nature of writing. Teaching is just as creative, in my opinion, but for some reason creative writing and artistry in general is often attached to emotions and maybe even ego.

Amelia, you DON'T suck! You said it yourself - you know that stuff inside out. Why shouldn't you do it and get paid for it? You're offering some valuable skills and knowledge. That in itself should give you confidence!

Hi "LilyLu" - Paula, you never cease to surprise me. :) I think you're correct about insecurities being the root of this stuff. The controlling client is no less insecure and is sporting an unhealthy trust issue on top of it.

By: Paula

Paula — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:28:29 +0000

Um….some how my previous comment was attributed to my dog, Lily. Apparently she left her Google Account open. (I always wondered what she does when she takes over my office in the evening!)