Congrats on your first novel! It sounds fantastic!

I can appreciate how nerves can get in the way of writing, and life in general. After recently publishing my first novel, the marketing aspect caused my nerves to go into overdrive. I finally told myself that I HAD to make mistakes, with every social media comment, every book signing, etc. It took the pressure off because I expected mistakes and could just move on.

Best of luck with your new adventure in writing, and don’t forget to make mistakees! (Ha!)

Mary Ann

I want to say, ‘it me’ to this essay.

Congrats on getting any of it, anything at all, to manageable levels. It frees up a lot of time (not a joke).

My personal story has been that over time (a long time), I have gradually done a couple things (besides meds). Worked my way thru the worst instances if it was something I really wanted (such as your reading in public), and two, gotten older and less likely to, you know, give a f******. I will read in public WITH my knees shaking.

Cheers