Recycle more that just paper...

Monster or Mentor?

- E D I T O R -

...the one word that can cause chills to run down the spine of a writer.

The thought of the “all powerful editor” holding your precious manuscript in their hands to shred to pieces or, hopefully, see a creative, unique diamond, has led to many sleepless nights for those awaiting their fate in the publishing industry.

Does this sound like you?

Well, I’ll let you in on a secret that might give you just a little more sleep tonight. We are not “all powerful” (I still can’t fly or make the dirty dishes disappear with a snap of my fingers), and it is definitely not our goal to shred your dreams. We are not faceless monsters, or even remotely inhuman for that matter—in fact, we are all too human, only proven if you could see how we struggle with having to tell an author their manuscript is not ready for publication, that they aren’t quite as far along in their dream as they hoped.

- E D I T O R -

Instead of picturing the top floor of a brutishly tall office building, clean, crisp skirts and suits behind goliath desks, outboxes piled high with manuscripts riddled with big red slashes, picture your favourite teacher from school, or the coach who made a difference in the way you played and enjoyed your favourite sport.

At least, that is the way I hope my authors look at me. Not as some be all and end all of their manuscript, but as a coach who stands beside them, works with them, shows them where they can improve and encourages them to make their story the very best it can be. And, like with any sport, practice furthers your development and effort brings accomplishment.

~ M E N T O R ~

Whether you are submitting to a publisher or using an independent editor, think of them as a mentor, someone waiting for you to submit, ready to assist you, excited to help you achieve your dreams.

Changing the way you think about editors can help get you a bit more sleep at night, because there is honestly no monster on the other end of the SEND button. In truth, if not for writers, there would be no need for editors. YOU are that important to us.

Now, that’s not to say you should be disrespectful or too casual in your correspondence to editors. As with a teacher or coach, respect and listening skills go a long way with how they will treat you.  At the same time, most editors should also earn your respect by their actions and guidance whether through an encouraging rejection letter or during the editing process. 

So, don't be afraid of the word "editor" because, personally, I love when authors ask questions, whether simple or complex, because it shows me they WANT to learn and better their craft.  And that is what I'm here for--to coach, encourage, and inspire you.

From this Mentor:
Embrace the unknown and conquer the fear by asking questions and finding the answers, because answers can light up a whole new path you never even knew was there.



©bystacydawn

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🙋Check out my links at the side to visit me on social media and at my website! 💟

Summer Fun

Thought I'd share a fun little summer piece I recently finished for an artsydoodle challenge on Instagram

Sometime the funnest thing to do during the summer is put your feet in the water...and do nothing at all 😁



©bystacydawn

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🙋Check out my links at the side to visit me on social media and at my website! 💟

Friendly reminder this week....

Sometimes we get so caught up in all the new story ideas in our heads, or focusing too much on the end result (by researching publishers, the market, or following (stalking) everything other writers are doing), worrying that we aren't good enough by comparing ourselves, our abilities, and our time to others, and just all around... 

THINKING TOO MUCH! 

And we end up getting no writing done at all...which topples us into that dark well of depression because we want to write, really we do, but let's face it, sometimes it can be so overwhelming, discouraging, and just plain hard.

It's almost like a whirlwind pulling you down rather than elevating you higher.

Sound familiar?

Yep, been there myself, and more so recently.  

So, this is just a friendly reminder to breathe (in and out, deep and slow), let all that crap above go, and simplify.  Get back to the one thing that REALLY counts...

I did exactly this on Monday...took a few deep breaths, sat still for a few minutes, and let it all go.  Simplified my thinking all around.  Then I opened my dusty manuscript file and started.

Before I knew it, that feeling was back, the one I haven't had in too many months of Sundays.  You know it--a little giddiness mixed with excitement and a whole lot of contentment.  The writing rush 😍.

That is what I wish for you this week, especially if you are struggling.  So, just breathe...just simplify...just...write 🖊😉


©bystacydawn

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🙋Don't forget to check out my links at the side to visit me on social media and at my website! 💟

Introducing...

I thought it about time I “officially” introduce my original characters I’ve posted on a few occasions here (more on Instagram).

P.J. (Peace Joy) Love is a bit of a throwback hippie and, like most of us, just trying to stay positive in this crazy world. Hartly is her lovable rescue mutt, pretty laid back, and a cuddle hound. They began as part of an art challenge and blossomed from there. Sure, maybe you could say there’s a little bit of me in her...but I like to hope there’s a bit more Peace Joy Love in me ☮️😄💖.

So, what’s in store for the happy hippie and her pup? Watch for a fun collaboration she will be involved in with some amazing ladies, and then I’m thinking a little three part “vacation” series might be fun, too.  I'll post some here on Sunday Fundays so stay tuned!


©bystacydawn

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🙋Don't forget to check out my links at the side to visit me on social media and at my website! 💟

Be a Light

Sometimes the kindness of a simple smile can be a lighthouse to someone else, guiding them through their storm.

Aspire to be a light for someone this week, and see how brighter your own day becomes!

©bystacydawn

Friday Special Edition: Love, Meg Epilogue

Thank you so much for following Meg's adventures!  And special thank you for all the lovely notes messaged to me about the uniqueness of the postcard series--they have been both inspiring and very much appreciated!

If you are just coming to the series, you can find it from the beginning HERE and following every Friday thereafter.

I am working in the background on more Friday Special Edition features for the future!

©bystacydawn 2018

To all my American friends...

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To all my fellow Canadians...

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