Why I Haven’t Written the Book I Imagined After Quitting My Job
Written on
Chapter 1: The Dream of Writing
For a long time, I believed that everyone harbors a story worth sharing. When asked what I would pursue if work were no longer a concern, my answer was always the same: I would write a book.
A few years back, I made the decision to leave my job. Now, my primary focus is on caring for my family and writing during the hours my son spends at school and my daughter at nursery.
However, the reason I haven't embarked on writing a book yet is that I am still grappling with a crucial question: What would my book focus on? If I were to write, I would want it to be something that not only aids others but also garners recognition.
To find a direction, I plan to review my past articles to identify any recurring themes, which could potentially serve as the foundation for my book. The thought of dedicating the necessary time to write a book feels overwhelming. Even if I create something engaging, I must also consider how to effectively promote it. The entire endeavor seems monumental, with the looming possibility that my efforts might not result in a published work. The idea of such a significant investment going unnoticed is daunting.
Additionally, I worry that my writing process might reflect my reading habits. I tend to wait too long before revisiting books, often forgetting the storylines. Nowadays, I find myself reading primarily on a Kindle during my bi-monthly hairdresser appointments. The device mostly gathers dust on my nightstand, occasionally picked up by my curious three-year-old.
During my latest trip to the hair salon, I powered on my Kindle only to discover stray hairs still clinging to the screen from my previous visit. I was over 70% through a story, yet couldn't recall the plot well enough to confirm my progress. It was entirely plausible that my little one had navigated away from a significant portion of the tale without my notice.
I recognize that I am still in the process of refining my writing skills. I require more time to practice and understand what resonates with readers, ultimately cultivating an audience eager for my work.
Currently, my best approach is to consistently publish shorter articles. With each piece, I strive to improve upon my previous writing. Each article feels like a small project that I can complete within a brief timeframe, providing me with a rewarding sense of achievement.
Section 1.1: The Importance of Consistent Practice
Consistent practice is essential for growth in writing. By regularly producing short articles, I can explore various styles and topics, which not only hones my craft but also keeps my creative juices flowing.
Subsection 1.1.1: Finding Inspiration
Section 1.2: Overcoming Fear of Failure
Overcoming the fear of creating something that may never be seen is a challenge many writers face. Embracing the process and allowing oneself to write freely can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.
Chapter 2: Embracing the Journey
In the video titled "Why I Quit My Dream Job in Book Publishing to Freelance Full Time," the creator shares their journey and the challenges they faced while pursuing writing full-time. This reflects the struggles many aspiring authors encounter when transitioning from a stable job to the uncertainty of freelancing.