Why It Almost Ended

2018 has been a long year for me, it seems. And I know why it feels that way.

Boy, do I ever know.

I can admit this now.... I was overly ambitious with my writing and publishing plans for this year. And, rather than dramatically adjusting my schedule or plans, I pushed through, even when my body and mind were telling me I shouldn't, urging me not to. Because I felt I'd made promises, of sorts, to readers and other authors, and I didn't want to let them down.

The pushing through, no matter how overloaded I was, is why I came very close - too close - to quitting the writing thing altogether.

I was burned out in the worst way. I didn’t want to write. Not that I couldn’t, but I just didn’t have the motivation or drive or even energy to sit down and put words on paper, to focus on a story. I didn’t want to promote or market or anything. It was bad. Bad as in there were times I felt on I was on the verge of a breakdown.

I’m still struggling with the burnout a bit. Some days are worse than others. But, I’ve got a new release coming down the pike and after all the work I’ve put into it, it deserves the time and attention it needs to see it through to release day.

However, after the release, it’s time for me to take a break. Well, as much as any author takes a break. lol

I’ll promote the book for a week or two after it releases then I’m easing back and re-prioritizing my goals and plans for the upcoming year. Like any other author, I have ideas for future books that goes on for days, but working full time (as well as couple of, what some would consider part-time, side jobs), trying to spend time with The Husband and raising two teenagers, I only have so much time on my hands. And sometimes I have to attempt to sleep.

There’s a reason I drink coffee, folks.

Anyway, I’ll be taking the holidays to rest and recharge my batteries, to take care of me and enjoy the time with my family instead of worrying over what I should be doing every second of every day. With any luck, I’ll come back with energy and purpose and a more manageable plan in the new year.

And then it’ll be time - with a little luck and a whole lot of hope - to really kick some writing ass. ;)