If you follow me on Instagram, you know that my fiction book, Escape the Woods, is launching on January 11th. (Details about my launch party/book signing here.) OBVIOUSLY, I’m incredibly excited. This is what I’ve been working toward for five years!!! In some ways, it still doesn’t quite feel real.
But can I be real with you?
This season of life is hard. Launching this book is hard – possibly harder than it was to write the whole dang thing! I know that sounds ungrateful and strange to feel this way after achieving success. But lately, as I’ve been contemplating why I feel this way, I’ve realized I’m not alone in this feeling. I’ve been hearing other authors talk about the anxiety and sleepless nights leading up to their book launch . . . and I can totally relate.
This book is a piece of my heart. I’ve been investing time, effort, and emotions into it since I was twelve years old. And now, that book is about to be released to the entire world. In a way, that feels extremely vulnerable. The thought of my book being out in the world for friends, family, and strangers to read and review and give their opinions on, sometimes keeps me up at night. To be honest, the thought is terrifying.
Releasing my book is a daunting experience. I haven’t had a lot of mentors along the way because I don’t know many people that have published a book. And although I have an amazing group of supporters, I can sometimes feel alone and isolated with the career I’m trying to create. There aren’t a lot of people in my life who do what I do – write books, blog about about their life and their clothing choices on the internet. And most of the authors and bloggers I have met aren’t as young as I am, which can also be an insecurity of mine. I’m not complaining. I chose this path for my life. I’m just trying to be honest.
You can be overwhelmed by your blessings. Something in your life can bless you and stress you out at the same time. And that’s okay.
I don’t think I’ve ever wanted anything more in my life than to be a published author. And now that I am, I’m so grateful and happy. But that doesn’t mean I’m not anxious about the launch, stressed about deadlines and payments, and overwhelmed by the thought of how many people are going to be reading my words come January 11th.
As I go into the year 2020, I’m reminding myself that I am strong enough to conquer my dreams and achieve my goals. I’m also reminding myself to trust God. I have the natural tendency to try to take control of my life, and to feel as though I have to fight each personal battle on my own. But I’ve felt God saying to trust Him and let Him fight my battles. God got me here, He’s going to bring me the rest of the way. With Him, I am strong enough to do whatever it is that He’s called me to.
Love,
Gabriella
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We used to sing a song in church count your Blessings name them one by one .Count your Blessings see what God has done.
We count you as one of those Blessings.
Knowing He brought you this far and will carry you through it all..even when we think we are doing it ourselves its God. Always with us.Excited for you Gabriella..hang on tight…
Thank you, Marilyn! You are so kind! Thank you! <3
You are an inspiration to me! Keep overcoming! You are so special and talented, and always remember God will never let you down 😉
Thank you, Kendra!! That means a lot <3
Just hang in there G! Sometimes you find a way to interpret “terrifying” as inspirational. I know I don’t have to tell you to leave it in Gods hands….
Breathe and enjoy the ride …..each hurdle as you grow and take on any task ,is educational no matter what happens anyway.
In your case I anticipate a smooth road….so be strong and calm at the same time…..not easy but you can do it!!!!
Thank you so much! I agree 🙂