The Love-Hate Dynamic of Deadlines
As a writer, deadlines are both my greatest motivator and my fiercest adversary. They push me to stay focused and productive but also remind me of the immense pressure that comes with crafting stories. This year, I experienced the power of deadlines first hand, and I’m excited to share how they shaped the creation of my forthcoming novel, Wherever You Will Go, and novella, In 5 Days’ Time.
2024: A Year of Determination and Focus
2024 has been a transformative year for me as a writer. I set out with a clear goal: to have both Wherever You Will Go and In 5 Days’ Time ready for a June 2025 release. The novel is now with the editor, and the novella will soon follow. Meeting these deadlines has required discipline, planning, and a renewed commitment to my craft. Unlike the rapid release strategy I adopted for the Island Secrets Series, I wanted to allow ample lead time for these projects to ensure quality and thoughtful promotion.
What Deadlines Teach Us
Deadlines have taught me a lot about myself as a writer:
- Prioritization: With limited time, I learned to focus on what truly matters in the writing process—crafting compelling narratives and refining every chapter.
- Resilience: There were moments of doubt and fatigue, but the clarity of a deadline kept me moving forward.
- The Value of Planning: Having a detailed schedule for drafting, editing, and seeking marketing advice has made the journey less overwhelming.
Creating Lead Time for Success
One of the key differences this time around is my approach to marketing. For Wherever You Will Go, I’m leveraging the extra lead time to build anticipation and connect with readers. The novella, In 5 Days’ Time, will serve as a new reader magnet, encouraging more people to join my mailing list. This strategic planning contrasts sharply with my experience with Island Secrets, where rapid release left little room for promotion.
Celebrating Progress
As I look back on this year, I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. Meeting my deadlines hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth every late night and early morning. Here’s to the lessons learned and the stories still waiting to be told.
A Question for Fellow Writers
How do you feel about deadlines? Do they inspire you or fill you with dread? Perhaps, like me, you’ve found that they can be both a challenge and a blessing. I’d love to hear about your experiences and strategies for meeting your goals while staying sane.
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