I've been in limbo searching for an idea for a blog post, so I did an inventory of my writing instead. This is where I'm at:-
My novel Dream Keeper is now available in multi-format ebook through Amazon, Amazon UK, Barnes & Noble Nook Store, Apple istore and Google ebooks. Dream Keeper is being represented at international book expos.
Novel manuscripts submitted = 2
Short stories accepted and being published in September = 2
Short stories submitted AKA 'playing the waiting game' = 105. (mind boggling)
Short stories in the drafting process = 4
Article accepted and being published in September = 1
Entered short story in FableCroft anthology competition. (fingers crossed)
Received an email requesting I cut the word count of 3 short stories and resubmit. (This is hopeful.)
When I consider the ratio of stories submitted to the ones accepted, that becomes a scary thought to me. Recently my ratio rate was one in nine stories accepted and the editor's comment was, 'It's actually a pretty good success rate!' Makes you sit back and think doesn't it? I figure to improve on that ratio I've got to write more, revise and tighten up rejected stories to ensure they're the best I can make them be ... and never ever give up!
Keep writing....
Showing posts with label IN MY WORLD. Show all posts
Showing posts with label IN MY WORLD. Show all posts
Friday, August 24, 2012
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
ACHIEVING WRITING SUCCESS
I've heard it before and I've asked the same questions myself; How does one achieve writing success when there are obstacles such as the decline of the short story market, the bombardment of rejections because the supply exceeds the demand and the fierce competition from writers who seem to have secured their niche with certain magazines? How indeed!
In my writing world I have been fortunate to have experienced the odd years where I've surprised even myself with the amount of short stories I've had published, and then there have been the years where the amount of rejections I've received has to be some kind of world record. In those times I began doubting myself. This put me in a bad place. Writing gives me a sense of self, so giving up was not an option. I reassessed my situation. I knew a story acceptance would renew the faith I had in myself, and always a short story sale sparks something inside of me which motivates and inspires - the magic returns and more acceptances follow. I was determined and I persevered.
It had been many months since I'd seen one of my short stories published and now I'm happy to say within a fortnight I've had five sales. What changed? My attitude.
Achieving writing success is about working hard, commitment, believing in yourself and continuing to put the effort in despite all obstacles.
If you don't believe me here is what two successful writers have to say on the subject:
"I will gladly testify that craft is terribly important, that the often tiresome process of draft, redraft, and then draft again is necessary to produce good work, and that hard work is the only acceptable practice for those of us who have some talent but little or no genius." - Stephen King
"When I first went full-time, I worked about fifty to sixty hours a week. I assumed that when and if I became successful, I'd be able to relax a little. Now I work seventy hours most weeks, and as much as eighty hours when I'm especially captivated by a piece." - Dean Koontz
Keep writing....
In my writing world I have been fortunate to have experienced the odd years where I've surprised even myself with the amount of short stories I've had published, and then there have been the years where the amount of rejections I've received has to be some kind of world record. In those times I began doubting myself. This put me in a bad place. Writing gives me a sense of self, so giving up was not an option. I reassessed my situation. I knew a story acceptance would renew the faith I had in myself, and always a short story sale sparks something inside of me which motivates and inspires - the magic returns and more acceptances follow. I was determined and I persevered.
It had been many months since I'd seen one of my short stories published and now I'm happy to say within a fortnight I've had five sales. What changed? My attitude.
Achieving writing success is about working hard, commitment, believing in yourself and continuing to put the effort in despite all obstacles.
If you don't believe me here is what two successful writers have to say on the subject:
"I will gladly testify that craft is terribly important, that the often tiresome process of draft, redraft, and then draft again is necessary to produce good work, and that hard work is the only acceptable practice for those of us who have some talent but little or no genius." - Stephen King
"When I first went full-time, I worked about fifty to sixty hours a week. I assumed that when and if I became successful, I'd be able to relax a little. Now I work seventy hours most weeks, and as much as eighty hours when I'm especially captivated by a piece." - Dean Koontz
Keep writing....
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
EXPECTATIONS
A few years ago a friend of mine told me that I needed to lower my expectations, that I was continually setting myself high expectations which in turn was setting myself up for a fall. Truth hurts.
Today his words sprang to mind and I found myself relating them to my writing. I used to set myself writing goals, a 'to do' list for each day. I expected a lot from myself and by the end of each day having not succeeded to complete this list I would be disappointed. Felt like a failure.
I stopped doing these lists and decided to write what I wanted when I wanted to. Discipline went out the window and my achievement rate when down hill really fast. This plan was not working. Needed a new plan.
After many long walks last week I re-assessed my situation and came up with a new plan:- Back to the daily 'to do' lists BUT make it achievable, still challenging but achievable. I think this will give me some direction and bring balance and order to my writing regime. Have expectations but make them achievable!
How do you go about your writing day? Do you have a plan?
Keep writing....
Today his words sprang to mind and I found myself relating them to my writing. I used to set myself writing goals, a 'to do' list for each day. I expected a lot from myself and by the end of each day having not succeeded to complete this list I would be disappointed. Felt like a failure.
I stopped doing these lists and decided to write what I wanted when I wanted to. Discipline went out the window and my achievement rate when down hill really fast. This plan was not working. Needed a new plan.
After many long walks last week I re-assessed my situation and came up with a new plan:- Back to the daily 'to do' lists BUT make it achievable, still challenging but achievable. I think this will give me some direction and bring balance and order to my writing regime. Have expectations but make them achievable!
How do you go about your writing day? Do you have a plan?
Keep writing....
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
WRITING BLUES
You know that feeling when you finish writing a piece and you think, 'Wow, that's good! Did I write that?' Well, I haven't felt that in a while. It has been a long time between short story sales for me. So today I've decided to hang up the pen and go for a walk. I need to shake out the old cobwebs and be inspired by the world around me. I have been writing .... starting stories and then hitting a brick wall - very frustrating. I have submitted lots of stories and am a firm believer that while one plays the waiting game one must keep writing. In this extremely competitive writing world of ours I think we have to create something that stands out from the rest - something special. So my plan today is to take a break and venture outdoors in the hope that the fresh air and exercise energises and inspires me.
Mmmmm I think it is going to be a long, long walk!
Keep writing.... but take a break too :-)
Mmmmm I think it is going to be a long, long walk!
Keep writing.... but take a break too :-)
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
IN MY WRITING WORLD
I remember as a kid standing in the library in awe. In that moment I knew what I wanted; to see my novel on those shelves. Now all these years later I'm in. Dream Keeper is on the library shelf. Mission accomplished! :-)
Novel marketing is not one of my favourite things; I'm more an introvert than an extrovert. I took a teaspoon of cement (to harden up) and approached That's Life magazine offering copies of Dream Keeper as prizes. They have kindly accepted my offer which will be happening as an online promotion in the near future.
I'm going well writing articles. The Fellowship of Australian Writers have accepted and published five in a row. The state president of FAW NSW also will be reviewing Dream Keeper in an upcoming issue. I'm hoping this helps with sales.
So far this year I've managed to accomplish another goal and broke into the overseas markets with short story sales in the UK and SA.
As we all know with writing it's not all good news. (We wish.)The rejections, lack of motivation, inspiration and procrastination at times can be very draining. TL mag here in Australia - my favourite mag who have published the bulk of my short stories in the past (my very first short story sale to them in 1994) - haven't bought a story from me in almost a year! This concerns me, big time, as over here it is the only paying short story mag market. Why? Why? Why? I don't know.
I've submitted a huge stack of short stories, both revamped and new to various publishers and now I play the game that none of us like to play - the waiting game.
My other two novel manuscripts sit in a publisher's email box waiting to be reviewed. Apparently if they do not contact me within three months of submission I am to assume that they have decided not to pursue my manuscripts. I have two months to go. Fingers and everything else crossed for me please.
I've read a couple of blogs on the topic of increased postage costs. I can't help but wonder why in this day and age of modern technology there still are mags/publishers who only accept submissions via post. Why is that? Can anyone enlighten me?
So, in my writing world I have concluded I am doing all I can, and while I wait and live in hope, I write.
Keep writing....
Novel marketing is not one of my favourite things; I'm more an introvert than an extrovert. I took a teaspoon of cement (to harden up) and approached That's Life magazine offering copies of Dream Keeper as prizes. They have kindly accepted my offer which will be happening as an online promotion in the near future.
I'm going well writing articles. The Fellowship of Australian Writers have accepted and published five in a row. The state president of FAW NSW also will be reviewing Dream Keeper in an upcoming issue. I'm hoping this helps with sales.
So far this year I've managed to accomplish another goal and broke into the overseas markets with short story sales in the UK and SA.
As we all know with writing it's not all good news. (We wish.)The rejections, lack of motivation, inspiration and procrastination at times can be very draining. TL mag here in Australia - my favourite mag who have published the bulk of my short stories in the past (my very first short story sale to them in 1994) - haven't bought a story from me in almost a year! This concerns me, big time, as over here it is the only paying short story mag market. Why? Why? Why? I don't know.
I've submitted a huge stack of short stories, both revamped and new to various publishers and now I play the game that none of us like to play - the waiting game.
My other two novel manuscripts sit in a publisher's email box waiting to be reviewed. Apparently if they do not contact me within three months of submission I am to assume that they have decided not to pursue my manuscripts. I have two months to go. Fingers and everything else crossed for me please.
I've read a couple of blogs on the topic of increased postage costs. I can't help but wonder why in this day and age of modern technology there still are mags/publishers who only accept submissions via post. Why is that? Can anyone enlighten me?
So, in my writing world I have concluded I am doing all I can, and while I wait and live in hope, I write.
Keep writing....
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
SUNSHINE :-)
Patsy, who I consider a little ray of sunshine was kind enough to pass on to me the Sunshine Award.
To accept this award I have to tell you what makes me happy then pass on the award to other deserving bloggers. So, in no particular order these are some of the things that make me happy:
1. Sunshine and blue skies.
2. Spending the day at the beach walking, exploring the rock pools or mucking around on my body board.
3. WRITING - that really makes me happy, and top that off with a short story acceptance and I am over the moon.
4. Cadbury dairy milk chocolate.... yummy!
5. Strolling through the botanical gardens, especially in Spring.
6. When my kids say, 'I love you Mum.'
7.When people acknowledge me by commenting on my blog and I see my 'following' is growing.
8. Reading
9. When somebody says, 'You inspire me.'
10.Building friendships with writers from all over the world. Their support and encouragement really does make me happy!
Now I would like to pass this Sunshine Award onto Suzanne, Angie, Joanne, Deb, Valerie, and Rae. Please spread the sunshine around and go visit these blogs and say hello. :-)
Keep writing....
1. Sunshine and blue skies.
2. Spending the day at the beach walking, exploring the rock pools or mucking around on my body board.
3. WRITING - that really makes me happy, and top that off with a short story acceptance and I am over the moon.
4. Cadbury dairy milk chocolate.... yummy!
5. Strolling through the botanical gardens, especially in Spring.
6. When my kids say, 'I love you Mum.'
7.When people acknowledge me by commenting on my blog and I see my 'following' is growing.
8. Reading
9. When somebody says, 'You inspire me.'
10.Building friendships with writers from all over the world. Their support and encouragement really does make me happy!
Now I would like to pass this Sunshine Award onto Suzanne, Angie, Joanne, Deb, Valerie, and Rae. Please spread the sunshine around and go visit these blogs and say hello. :-)
Keep writing....
Thursday, February 2, 2012
TOMORROW IS A NEW DAY!
I am not having a good day! I caught the self-pity bug. You may have suffered from this from time to time? You know all that writing, all that effort trying to stay positive...wondering when your next acceptance will come along? I spent the day with Stephen King, Under the Dome. A huge novel, in many ways, 1074 pages. Great story, believable characters. I was transported into another world... a strange world but his expertise as a writer made it a believable world. He sure can write! I experienced many emotions.. all the ups and downs the characters were going through. Stephen King's writing impressed me, awed me and yes, made me envious. His writing ability is definitely something to aspire to.
After reading a couple of hundred pages I decided to stop feeling sorry for myself. I thought time to stop hitting the panic button, keep writing and that acceptance will come and then another will follow. That is usually the way it is with me.. nothing and then two or three. I decided to come online and read other writer's blogs, that always inspires me and gets me in a better mood. Well, did I hit the panic button over and over... my blog had disappeared. It was gone! Not there! Of course common sense told me not to panic, but all I could think about was all those posts I made, the following that has started to grow and how much I look forward to blogging. All gone! No sooner had I posted in the google help forum when my blog magically re-appeared. I am so relieved, confused but relieved.
So, after the non-writing day I have just had, (thank goodness Stephen King was here to keep me company) I will stop my complaining and give your ears (perhaps eyes?) a rest.
Tomorrow is a new day....
After reading a couple of hundred pages I decided to stop feeling sorry for myself. I thought time to stop hitting the panic button, keep writing and that acceptance will come and then another will follow. That is usually the way it is with me.. nothing and then two or three. I decided to come online and read other writer's blogs, that always inspires me and gets me in a better mood. Well, did I hit the panic button over and over... my blog had disappeared. It was gone! Not there! Of course common sense told me not to panic, but all I could think about was all those posts I made, the following that has started to grow and how much I look forward to blogging. All gone! No sooner had I posted in the google help forum when my blog magically re-appeared. I am so relieved, confused but relieved.
So, after the non-writing day I have just had, (thank goodness Stephen King was here to keep me company) I will stop my complaining and give your ears (perhaps eyes?) a rest.
Tomorrow is a new day....
Friday, January 27, 2012
SHORT STORY WRITER
I haven’t made my first short story sale yet for 2012. I have had an article accepted though … woo hoo! I’ve written four new stories so far this year and am working on three others which are in the drafting stage. My latest short story was inspired by pics I saw on The Librarian’s blog. I started writing this story and hit a brick wall when my muse decided to go on vacation. Mr Muse recently returned (I think he missed me) and the rest of the story flowed with ease. It’s not the usual story I would write. I do enjoy challenging myself. Pushing those boundaries. Exploring new territory. And I had so much fun writing it! I’ve submitted the short story feeling hopeful and dare I say, confident? Time will tell.
While I wait to hear some news on those two novel manuscript proposals I’ve sent to Pan MacMillan I’ve taken the author cap off and donned the short story writer cap.
Come on Muse back to short story drafting. Slave driver you say? I wink at him. Welcome home Muse!
Keep writing….
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
ON YOUR MARK, GET SET... WRITE!
I've sent my first 2012 short story off to That's Life (fingers crossed). I have also submitted my new novel manuscript to Allen and Unwin who run 'Friday Pitch' where they accept unsolicited manuscripts, and my second novel manuscript I wrote to Pan Macmillan Australia who run Manuscript Monday. I have also managed to dig up some old short stories which haven't been anywhere in a while and submitted them. I've been in the mood to make things happen, so I thought, why not take advantage of the frame of mind I am in? I have another new short story which I am drafting and last night drafted out an article.
I can only hope I can maintain this momentum. My muse has been very obliging.... so far!
What have you been up to?
Keep writing...
I can only hope I can maintain this momentum. My muse has been very obliging.... so far!
What have you been up to?
Keep writing...
Monday, January 2, 2012
2012 - MY WRITING HOPES!
This is a list of goals I have set for myself for 2012. I have recorded them here as an added incentive to me to stay focused and determined – because I know that recording this here and having witnesses to this list will help me to put in the effort that is needed. Well, that is my plan anyway! Sounds good in theory, don’t you think?
03 Read, revise and submit second novel manuscript.
04 Read, revise and submit third novel manuscript.
05 Continue marketing first published novel, Dream Keeper.
06 Write one short story per week.
07 Write and submit articles.
08 Begin drafting new novel manuscript.
09 Blog once per week.
10 Search for new writing markets/opportunities.
NOTE TO SELF: As long as I do my absolute best to achieve this list, in my eyes I have succeeded! (This is my back up plan/attitude – it takes the pressure off, and prevents me from going into panic mode if the year is coming to a close and I am wishing I hadn’t had such high expectations of myself.) J
Keep writing….
01 Beat record of short stories sold in one calendar year.
02 Read, revise and submit non-fiction book manuscript.03 Read, revise and submit second novel manuscript.
04 Read, revise and submit third novel manuscript.
05 Continue marketing first published novel, Dream Keeper.
06 Write one short story per week.
07 Write and submit articles.
08 Begin drafting new novel manuscript.
09 Blog once per week.
10 Search for new writing markets/opportunities.
NOTE TO SELF: As long as I do my absolute best to achieve this list, in my eyes I have succeeded! (This is my back up plan/attitude – it takes the pressure off, and prevents me from going into panic mode if the year is coming to a close and I am wishing I hadn’t had such high expectations of myself.) J
Thursday, December 29, 2011
LOOKING BACK... AND FORWARD
It has been a good year for me. I managed to to get some short stories published here in Australia, and for the first time broke into the overseas market - thanks to The Weekly News in the UK. I've had several articles published in the Fellowship of Australian Writers, Writers Voice; they've really boosted my confidence in wanting to share my knowledge/opinions with other writers. Being a part of the novella, Sounds and Silence, brought together by various members of the FAW (NSW) Isolated Writers' Branch was an enjoyable experience for me. I can't even explain the awesome feeling of holding my first published novel, Dream Keeper, in my hands - magic! I surprised myself this year and maintained my writing focus which also enabled me to draft out a non-fiction book and another novel. No, not bragging, just acknowledging to myself that with focus and determination I am able to complete tasks that I set for myself!
I'm looking forward to 2012. I'm pumped up and feeling confident. Yes, there is still so much to learn, but to me that's what living is about - learning. I am passionate about inspiring new writers along their writing journey while I continue my own journey to improve my writing skills as I further nurture my craft.
I've been reading various blogs about setting writing goals. There are those who are dead-set against it and those who wisely advise not to set your expectations too high, but do set some goals. Personally, I will be setting myself some goals because I need that sense of direction.
What are your opinions about goal setting and will you be setting yourself writing goals for 2012? I would very much like to hear from you.
Well, I'm off to set myself some goals for 2012...
Keep writing....
I'm looking forward to 2012. I'm pumped up and feeling confident. Yes, there is still so much to learn, but to me that's what living is about - learning. I am passionate about inspiring new writers along their writing journey while I continue my own journey to improve my writing skills as I further nurture my craft.
I've been reading various blogs about setting writing goals. There are those who are dead-set against it and those who wisely advise not to set your expectations too high, but do set some goals. Personally, I will be setting myself some goals because I need that sense of direction.
What are your opinions about goal setting and will you be setting yourself writing goals for 2012? I would very much like to hear from you.
Well, I'm off to set myself some goals for 2012...
Keep writing....
Friday, December 23, 2011
HO! HO! HO!
As another year comes to a close I would like to congratulate all of you on your writing successes this year. I also would like to congratulate all those writers starting out for persevering, for being determined and for not giving up - your turn will come. It's the perseverance and determination that does get you there in the end!
Blogging has opened up a world to me which I feel very privileged to be a part of. I have made many good friends who have supported and encouraged me along my journey. People who have taught me that rejection is part of the writing process and the whole experience of the writing journey is to become a better writer. I have learnt so much; from being informed of writing markets to the creative process itself. Thank you for opening up your world to me.
Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas and may 2012 be a great one!
Keep writing....
Blogging has opened up a world to me which I feel very privileged to be a part of. I have made many good friends who have supported and encouraged me along my journey. People who have taught me that rejection is part of the writing process and the whole experience of the writing journey is to become a better writer. I have learnt so much; from being informed of writing markets to the creative process itself. Thank you for opening up your world to me.
Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas and may 2012 be a great one!
Keep writing....
Saturday, October 8, 2011
FRIENDLY BLOGGER AWARD
Thank you to Rosemary Gemmell for this award. One of the special things for me that has come out of blogging are the wonderful friends I have made, and it meant a lot to me to be considered a 'friendly blogger'. There are so many bloggers I have come across that I would also like to pass this award onto. I've included those who haven't (as far as I know) received this award and are deserving of it. Here is a short list of bloggers, because if I were to post a link to all the friendly bloggers I know, this post would be never-ending:
Patsy Collins, Sarah Duncan, Womagwriter, Janice Horton, Gail Crane and Suzanne Jones .
Thursday, May 26, 2011
DREAMING
IN MY IDEAL WRITER'S WORLD:-
Short story markets have sprung up overnight.
The demand for stories exceeds the supply.
I have received not one, but two contracts to write weekly stories - from popular national and international magazines.
My publisher informs me my novel, Dream Keeper, is in the best seller's list and requests a sequel. No, make that a series.
I'm struggling juggling my time between writing, interview requests and replying to fan mail.
Everything I write turns to gold - literally.
What is writer's block? Inspiration and ideas reign supreme.
I have no memory of rejection.
I have sponsors which include computer, clothing, motor vehicle and holiday resort companies.
My Cadbury chocolate has magically transformed into a never ending block. Yummy.
PLEASE DON'T WAKE ME UP!
Short story markets have sprung up overnight.
The demand for stories exceeds the supply.
I have received not one, but two contracts to write weekly stories - from popular national and international magazines.
My publisher informs me my novel, Dream Keeper, is in the best seller's list and requests a sequel. No, make that a series.
I'm struggling juggling my time between writing, interview requests and replying to fan mail.
Everything I write turns to gold - literally.
What is writer's block? Inspiration and ideas reign supreme.
I have no memory of rejection.
I have sponsors which include computer, clothing, motor vehicle and holiday resort companies.
My Cadbury chocolate has magically transformed into a never ending block. Yummy.
PLEASE DON'T WAKE ME UP!
Saturday, May 14, 2011
SEVEN THINGS ABOUT ME!
Thank you to my writing friends Teresa Ashby and Rosemary Gemmell for the Stylish and Versatile Blogger Awards. Here are seven things about myself that I hope you find interesting:
I love the beach and getting out there on my body board. I get a lot of smiles and waves from the shore and wonder whether it's admiration or a thank you for the humorous sight of seeing a 47 year old carrying on like a big kid.
I enjoy the seclusion, excitement and adventure of camping; nothing beats cooking outdoors, the sights and sounds of the wild life and the sense of freedom. I love Australia!
I worked in a law firm for ten years - started out as a junior and worked my way up to a para-legal. I learned a lot about people, patience and organisational skills which has served me well in life.
I love chocolate - Cadbury - Yummy!
I adore my kids. My Mum was spot on when she said no matter how old your kids are you always worry about them. I have a 25, 21 and a 4 year old.
I struggled with my personal identity for a long time. I am a first generation Australian. My parents were born in Malta. It was tough growing up and having to deal with racism. On the upside it instilled in me the importance of being empathetic towards others and celebrating the multi-culturalism of my country and home - Australia. Writing is something that gives me a sense of self - of who I am and what I am about.
I strive to one day be remembered and respected for writing something that impacts on people's lives in an uplifting and positive way.
I am going to take the easy way out here and pass on awards to anyone who hasn't received one yet. Please post your name in this post so we can all wander over and learn seven things about you. Thank you for taking the time to read my post and learn a little more about me. It's your turn now. I would very much like to learn more about you!
I love the beach and getting out there on my body board. I get a lot of smiles and waves from the shore and wonder whether it's admiration or a thank you for the humorous sight of seeing a 47 year old carrying on like a big kid.
I enjoy the seclusion, excitement and adventure of camping; nothing beats cooking outdoors, the sights and sounds of the wild life and the sense of freedom. I love Australia!
I worked in a law firm for ten years - started out as a junior and worked my way up to a para-legal. I learned a lot about people, patience and organisational skills which has served me well in life.
I love chocolate - Cadbury - Yummy!
I adore my kids. My Mum was spot on when she said no matter how old your kids are you always worry about them. I have a 25, 21 and a 4 year old.
I struggled with my personal identity for a long time. I am a first generation Australian. My parents were born in Malta. It was tough growing up and having to deal with racism. On the upside it instilled in me the importance of being empathetic towards others and celebrating the multi-culturalism of my country and home - Australia. Writing is something that gives me a sense of self - of who I am and what I am about.
I strive to one day be remembered and respected for writing something that impacts on people's lives in an uplifting and positive way.
I am going to take the easy way out here and pass on awards to anyone who hasn't received one yet. Please post your name in this post so we can all wander over and learn seven things about you. Thank you for taking the time to read my post and learn a little more about me. It's your turn now. I would very much like to learn more about you!
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