Have you ever had a season where you’ve had to make hard choices?
Choosing to say no to one thing to say yes to another?
This week I had to say no to a book contract with an independent collection that I really wanted to say yes to, to make space for my family. I agonized over the choice. I loved working with this team last year. My novel Art of Deception came out in Come What May in September and it was great. And I’ll probably work with them again.
I see participating in these collections as a way to support other writers and a way to write books that fit in the larger constellation of my writing. Often they are books that lead into series for my traditionally published works. Art of Deception is the prequel to The Vanished that released last week. I was going to write book three in an earlier series this summer for this contract.
But as I kept thinking and praying about it, I just felt a tightening in my stomach. I have another full length novel to write for my publisher this year. It’s a busy season for our family. And my teaching job consumed a lot of energy this spring. I’m dry. Even though it’s really hard, I’m giving myself the gift of a slight pause, a little inhale.
I have some ideas for how I could use that time to do a few other writing related things. Or not. We’ll see.
Have you ever had that little hitch in your stomach? That little voice in your head? How did it go for you?
By the way, it’s been so exciting to see early reactions to The Vanished . Thanks to everyone who’s bought and read it already! Thank you for leaving reviews to help others discover it. It makes such a difference!
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Oh yes…I’ve felt that hitch. 🙂 And I cancelled two this this fall (wasn’t teaching at them) and I feel such relief. LOL.
It’s a bittersweet relief for sure.
I’ve learned to listen to that little hitch–even when it doesn’t seem to make sense. Good for you for making that decision for you and your family.
It was hard but I think the right one. Hope you are well!
Definitely felt it when I was about to start negotiations for a new contract a couple of years ago. That “hitch” led to my decision to go indie with my historical romance series, The British Are Coming. And I’ve been very happy because of it.
I love that for you, Robin!
Thanks for sharing about this. I can relate! When I have a difficult decision to make or need to choose between two things, I first ask the Lord:
1. “Jesus, what is YOUR perspective on this?” (I already know my perspective. 🙂
2. How does it fit with Isaiah 30:21: “Whether you turn to the right or to the life, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying,’This is the way; walk in it.'” (It can be that little “hitch.”)
3. Does it bring peace? There is an old Quaker saying that says: “Go the way of peace.”
I love how you’ve invited the “Prince of Peace” to guide you in this decision!
This is so rich, Marilyn. Thanks for sharing all of it.
When our four kids were at home, I did my best to NOT write during the summer when they were out of school. I’ve never regretted that decision even though it meant that I could only put out one book a year. (Besides, I’m a slow writer and more than that would not have been good for anyone!)