Where have you been, Katrina?
Nice of you to ask, thanks! I’ve been writing. A lot.
When I released Wild Horse Heart. It’s a fantastic book (yes, I’m biased, but my reviews say I’m not delusional), but wow did I ever stress myself out during the publishing process back then.
I’ve learned a lot from mistakes made in the past, and it's amazing the perspective gained from 42 years in this beautiful, chaotic world.
Lesson #1: Panic Attacks Suck.
The last time I published, I put so much pressure on myself I triggered a panic attack bad enough that I crawled into my kids' room way past midnight to hold their hands in an attempt to calm myself down. Yes, I tried other coping techniques before resorting to that, but I needed their snuggly, sleeping serenity.
I was so afraid of what people would think about my book, and that there were things I could've done better, and...
You know what I've realized? Most people don't even care.
Lesson #2: Ease up, eh?
This time, I'm doing things differently. Partially thanks to 2020 and partially thanks to #momlife, I have considerably less fucks to give, which is actually quite helpful. I didn't set my launch date until the book was ready, and if something hasn't gone the way I wanted it to, I've rolled with it instead of fighting the flow.
Lesson #3: Be proud of your accomplishments.
I’ve learned that it’s okay to rest between doing things. In fact, to avoid burn out, it’s imperative to do other things.
I’ve gone to sleep early, slept in lots (yes, sleep is a theme here), spent quality time with my family, gone outside for fresh air, and kept up with new episodes of The Mandalorian.
Give me ALL the Mandalorian!
Maybe 42 is my magic year, where Life, the Universe, and Everything have come into enough perspective that I've learned to let my perfectionism slide a bit, and embrace the imperfect, organic nature of things. Whatever it is, I'm proud of myself for not sweating the small stuff.
TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read)
- Published a book in 2017.
- Freaked out.
- Published a book in 2020.
- Didn’t freak out.
- YAY!
Oh my gosh, lady! So good to see you. I'm very sorry to hear about the panic attack(s?). I'm glad you are taking care of yourself and doing what you need to do for you. And writing. Wow!! Congratulations on your huge achievement!!
We are in a very stressful time in history. We must all take care. Hugs!
Hi Jayna! Thank you for your sweet comment! Agreed. It's so important to put self-care at the top of the priority list, along with family. Ambition must fit itself in somewhere below that, though creativity sure is a welcome retreat from reality. Sending love to you and yours!
So. Start at the end: The synopsis of the post was brilliant. Made me giggle after I'd read the rest.
I bought the book, the non illustrated one. Don't hold your breath waiting for the review, my TR list is long. I'll get there.
Congratulations. I know what a big deal that is. Good for you.
Oh! Thank you so much for your encouragement and for buying a copy of Shelta's Songbook!
I'm glad you liked the TL;DR. I think summaries are important these days, when we're overloaded with information. The brain can handle small bits better, sometimes.
Really appreciate you, Tom. You've always been so supportive, and it means so much!
Ordered a copy and I will be sure to have it with next time I see you so you can give me another sexy autograph 😜 Love you! Good to see you got this accomplished and I'm excited to get it! Also crackin me up over here with the #momlife bit 🤣 I feel ya on that. Cept, you know, I'm not exactly a mom. But I feel you! I have yet to get into the Mandalorian. On my list to binge soon he he he. Namaste, Princess.
YOU WILL LOVE THE MANDALORIAN. THIS IS THE WAY.
Ahem. Clearly, I feel strongly about that. 🤣 Thank you so much for getting a copy of Shelta's Songbook, and for all your support over the years. I hope the world gets less chaotic and we can meet up at some point. Good luck with #dadlife, eh? One day at a time. You're doing great!