I received a marketing email with that subject line.
While the service described inside that email was not bad, it was definitely NOT what I need right now.
What do I need?
- A lot of hugs. Getting a kid ready to move to college is a lot.
- A reminder not to tuck my legs under me when I’m reading/watching TV/working/sleeping. My back pain is related to an SI joint issue and I need to stop bad hip habits to heal.
- A chauffeur. Now that the oldest has graduated, I’m back on carpool duty for the younger one’s band activities. I love the time in the car with him, but not the inevitable interruption to my daily writing dates. If only the band director scheduled practices around my schedule!
- To win the lottery. See getting ready to move a kid to college above.
- A cold front. It’s the South and it’s summer, but seriously? The humidity has been out of control and we’re now in a heat dome? I prefer not to sip my air in the mornings, thank you very much.
- To jump start my muse. Creativity is what I’m craving, but creativity is the first to go when I’m stressed. Working through some new habits and tactics to keep creativity at the forefront.
- A massage. See back pain above.
- A personal chef. Why is deciding what’s for lunch so hard? And why is my fridge full of food but I never have anything for lunch?
- To ask for help when I need it. I’m a helper, not so great at being a helpee. I’m practicing.
It’s not a comprehensive list, but a decent sampling of what I need right now. And I know that a service from a blind marketing campaign is not going to help.
And it probably won’t help you, either.
Because you have life happening around your creative work, too.
As much as I want to help you with your manuscripts, a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t going to cut it.
What might?
Having someone who…
- Actively listens
- Personalizes exercises and resources for your specific needs
- Offers not only feedback but next steps designed for YOUR work
- Guides instead of dictates
- Teaches instead of preaches
Or maybe you will need something else entirely.
That’s why I offer complimentary discovery calls with writers thinking of working with a coach.
I want to hear what you are writing and what you are struggling with. Every writer is different. Every project is unique. Sure, we often have the same stumbles over show don’t tell, but the way in which you have a breakthrough about it in your own work is different from any other writer.
So, dear unique writer, I don’t know what you need right now.
I can’t pretend to.
But I am willing to listen. To hear you talk about your writing and see if we can’t figure out together what your actual needs are.
Whenever you are ready.
For now, I think what I really need is chocolate.
Too bad that wasn’t in my email.
What do you need right now in your writing? Share in the comments.