The writing life is a roller coaster. Some days I feel confident in my writing skills and excited about the things that I am writing, and sometimes I think that I must be so blind and pretentious and disillusioned to think that I would ever write something beautiful enough to be published. Right now, my roller coaster is going down … down … DOWN.
I set myself up for this, without even realizing I was doing it. This weekend I went to Duluth with some writer friends, and in the same weekend, I asked for a critique of my manuscript’s first draft and I was re-reading The Fault in Our Stars. This means that my story was ripped apart at the same time that I was engrossed in John Green’s masterpiece, a formula that adds up to believing that I am worthless as a writer and am wasting my time pursuing it all.
But I couldn’t quit if I wanted to. And I don’t want to.
JACKIE LEA SOMMERS 
Totally know that feeling–and while I hate it, I think it’s normal for every artist to feel it. It can push us to go deeper and write better and take ourselves where we never thought we could go.
Also: You are an amazing writer, Jackie! I love love love your stories. Seriously can’t wait to read more!
Thanks Carra! You’re so sweet. I wrote this post on Sunday, and since then, I think I have recalibrated how long this novel is going to take me to perfect, so I am adjusting to that, haha!
It’s very true that the writing life is a roller coaster! So many aspects of life feel that way, and in those times, cling to the promises you know to be true. Here are some truths for you: Jackie is an amazing person. Jesus loves her, and she loves Jesus. He gave her an incredible gift, the ability to put thoughts into words and words into magic. You are meant to write. I can’t wait to read more! 🙂
I agree it’s a roller coaster! But you’re doing so well, Jackie, and you write with such purpose and passion–it’s part of who you are, obviously. So you have to keep on!
Thanks Tina!!
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Never let yourself get into a slump! Being bored or unhappy is a good thing – it’s all process. Keep it up (: