I recently wrote a touching picture book manuscript about a goldfish. The poor little guy just does not realize he is enough. By the end of the story, he has had enough of not being enough. Enough said.
I am writing about this because the list of things I need to do as a writer and an illustrator seems to grow and grow. First, I joined groups of writers and illustrators for critique groups. I joined SCBWI and other wonderful organizations that support my work. I created a website. My peers told me it is important to be visible on networking sites. I am on Facebook and Manic. Now, I am blogging.
How does this have to do with enough? Time is how it is related, enough time. How do people have enough time to meet all these obligations and live a happy productive life and remain sane? If I am enough then why do I have to do all these things that suck time leaving me feeling like I am not enough?
At school, I see stressed out teachers, administrators, and kids. Guess what they are stressed out about? Time. Time to test. Time to meet. Time to finish or start something. Time for homework. I am out of time. The bells about to ring. The bus just left.
I thought about all the wonderful things I teach people about how to take care of themselves. How important it is to take time to think, reflect, communicate thoughts and feelings, breathe, relax, and play.
Here is how I am going to accomplish all of my writing and illustration obligations. I see a couple of options. I could quit the business. Most people who know me are laughing at that idea. I could choose not to meet my obligations. The chuckles are loud and clear, ringing in my ears.
It appears my choice is to blend my obligations in with my everyday life. I am doing deep breathing to relax as I type this. It is a little difficult to monitor with Abby & Stanley glaring at me because I am ten minutes late with their kibble. Sorry I have to cut this short, the timer on the stove is going off. I set it to remind me to put another log on the fire. Time to go :D
