I have been writing for—well, let’s say—a long time. But only recently have I dared to call myself a writer. I often kept it in the shadows, a part of my secret life only known to the few close to me. For many years—despite my desire to be published and have a real go at it—I only considered writing to be a hobby. And in order to support my hobby (and help pay bills), I needed a job. I mean printer cartridges, paper, and electricity to power the laptop do not come for free. I have had the great fortune of being able to work from home. But my work has absolutely nothing to do with writing. Plus, it has been super stressful. The hubby wants me to quit; the six-year-old wants me to quit; if the four-year-old could speak, I am sure he would want me to quit; I want to quit.
My husband thinks I should devote my time to writing and finding a home for all of those novels and books. So I am taking a Leap of Faith, and I am quitting. I feel an odd mix of thrill and fright. My job provides a definite paycheck. But it also is a source of stress, a real time killer, and it lacks the happiness and fulfillment writing provides. But I guess leaving a sure thing in the rear-view mirror, driving full force down a highway with its unknown destination, is a true leap of faith.
I love posts like this! I so relate to you.
ReplyDeleteIn fact it's a struggle I have constantly - how much to work v. write.
I spent the last 2 years in a horribly hostile work environment that made me miserable. I finally left.
I love being able to make even just a bit of money so I don't feel strapped, and even now I'm tempted to apply to every full-time job that crosses my path, but I have to remind myself what my focus is right now.
We'll be quitting buddies/writing winners together!
You are brave to take a leap of faith. It sounds like you have a nice support system, which I believe is key to getting through any challenge. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by my blog. I look forward to seeing what else you'll have up!
http://ifbloggingburnedcalories.blogspot.com
You wouldn't be quitting, you would be taking a better job. You have 40+ years to work, so it's not like this is an ultra-permanent decision. Take the leap! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteGood luck!
ReplyDeleteHey Susan ~~ it's my first time visiting your blog ! :)
ReplyDeleteI really admire you for the decision you've made !! It brings to mind the following quote : If my mind can conceive it and my heart can believe it , then I know I can achieve it !!
~MICHELLE~
http://writer-in-transit.co.za/category/other/rambles-rants-and-raves/
How wonderful to have a husband who is that supportive. If you want to learn about e-publishing, I am writing about my experience in the pages beneath my banner. Check it out any time.
ReplyDeleteNancy
N. R. Williams, The Treasures of Carmelidrium.
CONGRATULATIONS!!! Susan, oh my goodness this is going to be one of the most exhilarating things you have ever done! It is an adjustment when you quit a paying job, but when you get right down to the kernel of the truth, there is nothing more fabulous that being able to follow your dream!
ReplyDeleteI hope you find that the financial shift is not such a hardship, and the benefits you gain on the writer side of your life will outweigh any job from the past.
Wow... awesome news. and Good luck.
Congrads and I know you'll be happy. I homeschooled our kids (on the last one, the thirteen-year old girl) and I love it. Plenty of opportunity to write. Your hubby sounds like my hubby. :-)
ReplyDeleteCongrats on your new adventure. I hope it's everything you hope it will be.
ReplyDeleteSusan, that's wonderful! I know how scary it can be to give up "security" and follow your dreams. Good luck to you!
ReplyDeleteWow! Great for you! I wish you the best of luck. I'm sure you're going to doing a marvelous job in your transition!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the success of your writing. Hope you become a published author soon. :O)
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your writing. This is a leap worth taking.
ReplyDelete