I know it’s kind of early to talk about this, but I’m thinking ahead to this year’s ACFW conference (in September). Any day now they’re going to open registration, and I’m completely unsure of what to do.
I haven’t considered writing fiction since the Genesis results came back (I know…it’s pathetic). I haven’t opened my manuscript and have no real desire to do so. Actually, I don’t want to write anything fictitious right now. I’m trying to figure out what to do…
Do I go to the conference? I don’t have anything to pitch, I don’t even have a WIP. I’ve been to three conferences already, but I haven’t really retained the info. Maybe I need to save my money and revisit my notes from those?
If I do go to the conference, how do I know which continuing education class to join? A couple of months ago I was thinking the mid-level (for those who’ve been writing for a while, but haven’t had manuscript requests from editors), but now I’m thinking the beginner class…but what if I’m not challenging myself enough by going back to the very beginning?
Sigh. I’m not actually expecting anyone to have “the answers” for me, but I could really use some prayer support. I want to do the right thing – I’m sure I’ll figure it out.
Karin,
I so feel your confusion. I guess you have some important questions to ask yourself, one of which is: how passionate am I about writing? Yes, you're going through a slump right now but is writing something you feel is a part of you? If you laid it aside for a while, would it cause anxiety or would you be ok with it? I remember a post you made a couple months ago about the Grand Rapids conference. It's clear that you've been struggling for a while now.
Personally, if I were at the point where you are, I would not attend the conference. It kills me to say that because I know the value in the ACFW conference and can't imagine not wanting to go. But spending that amount of money on something you don't feel would help you or that you don't truly feel passionate about attending seems to be pointless. Until you figure out exactly where your heart is, I'd take a step back and maybe spend time seeking God on this and asking Him to give you clarity. Also ask your friends to help as you figure out the desire of your heart.
On the other hand, a conference could be what re-ignites your passion. But as you said, you've been to three and so far…nothing. Maybe that is your answer.
I don't envy you this time of soul-searching. I recently posted to the loop that discernment is not my strongest skill so I understand your confusion, as I've been there. Unfortunately, as you said in your post, nobody can tell you what to do. But I will pray that it becomes clear to you as you seek answers.
Hugs,
Lynda
Every writer goes through this. Every-body goes through these valleys, no matter what we do. It's good to contemplate…for a while. You're writing so much on the nonfiction side, and teaching. What a gift! But if you're going to continue writing and submitting fiction, you have to get out your armor, and wear it all of the time. For the first time since I've been published, I'm finally not stressing over the reviews…because I learned how to read between the lines.
Let it go for a month. Enjoy June! Then make some decisions. You might be ready before the month is out, but just wait for a while. Conferences might not be what you need right now. How about finding some things (classes) that will help you with craft instead of pitching? There are conferences where you don't have opportunity to pitch. Or take the money and spend it on a really good course.
You might be able to make some other changes that will be beneficial to your psyche. Keep networking.
Thanks ladies! I appreciate your encouragement 🙂
Go find a book by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee (not one that is HOW to knit, but one that is just about knitting). She reminds me of you. She writes about knitting, you have different topics, but the idea and writing style is the same.
IDK if you are supposed to write fiction or not, but I do know that you are one of the few writers whose non-fiction writing has had me in TEARS laughing so hard. I will recall something you wrote months later and chuckle. I think her style of writing is probably some weird niche style (that doesn't have conferences) but I do know that it is what you excel at! 🙂
Personally, I've never regretted going to a conference.
Prayers!
Thanks, Cam 🙂
Erin – that's a good point! While I'm frustrate with what I feel like I haven't retained, I've enjoyed every conference I've attended.
You guys are great 🙂