Stick With Your Writing - by Elizabeth M. Ibarra

During Day 5 of Unleash Your Story; Sierra Melcher of Red Tread Publishing brought this well-rounded workshop to a close with powerful reminders to use as a guide and checklist during our process. These are all ways of looking at fully engaging with all the ups and downs of the writing process from an emotional and practical viewpoint. How often have you given up on writing midstream because it was “too difficult”, “there wasn’t enough time”, “my writing isn’t good enough” …we have all been there at some point during the process (myself included). These little besties are our self-effacing mind chatter which can be course-corrected and eased without struggling. Sierra’s prompts, questions and keen observations help solve the writer’s block riddles with humor and compassion.

         One of the key concepts which I grabbed onto and I think you will be inspired by is Sierra’s key concept of “Fierce Imperfection”. We are always learning, growing, evolving and our writing process is no different. Instead of beating ourselves up about getting stuck in a rut; think about the idea that you; just like your writing, are a work in progress. Your success requires action. Like the heroic journey; one must take the first step; not wait and simply hope that change will come. Transforming one’s thought process and plan of action requires both being in the space of using your talents to write and actually doing the work required to manifest positive results. Identifying your emotional triggers and perceived obstacles (as well as the literal ones), backwards planning, building a well to protect your writer’s voice and manuscript, working with your big dreams, recognizing that it isn’t a straight line from A-B; rather a massy middle where true growth will be achieved are all tools you can use to manifest and actualize your success. Putting all of this into practice will allow you to actually stick with your writing.

         Micro Shifts are a major part of this learning process. It makes everything seem less daunting when you are able to make the smallest change to implement with success, adding more on each day until you are accomplishing your goals with ease. De-stress your process by taking note of what you can literally do to make a difference. Is it organizing your work space? Making folders to contain your writing on your computer? Remembering to rest when needed so that you can replenish your well of inspiration? Eating something healthy and delicious? Sierra always reminds us to be mindful of Micro Shifts and you will learn all about this valuable process during the workshop. You will also learn other important steps to take to manifest your success during this amazing session with Sierra.

         I am writing this from the space of someone who has been implementing these valuable lessons. Once they have been learned, there is always a subconscious reminder to follow through. I am finding that more and more; now that I am getting further into the first draft of my manuscript. I follow the Moon Cycles for rest, prep, writing and (eventual) editing. This is powerful. Do I get everything accomplished every day I want to write? Of course not…Fierce Imperfection; I am learning, growing and evolving. The progress I have made has taken my “someday” book and is bringing it out of my heart and psyche to truly come to life in manuscript format. This is liberating, inspiring and empowering. Every word written has deep meaning for me. Sierra showed me all the ways this could become truly possible as a self-employed artisan and full-time Mom. I am writing my book.

I invite you to learn from Sierra. The possibilities for you and your writing are real and powerful. Being willing to prioritize your needs and deep desires to become a writer are just the first steps. Taking this inspiring workshop is the next of many which will pave your road to prolific writing. There is the wonderful bonus of being part of a supportive group of other women learning the same lessons you are. There will be excellent prompts and powerful questions posted regularly by Sierra. I have made friends among these amazing women and I value their support. This is highly important because; if you ever feel yourself slipping back into old patterns, Sierra will catch you by illuminating your path towards transformation and success. I wish you success with your writing. Stick with it!