FOMO has me in its clutches. Or tentacles might be a better word.
For those who aren’t up on the current slang (or slang from six months ago, which now dates me as being really old), FOMO is the FEAR OF MISSING OUT.
I have it. I’ve been infected. The only thing that will save me is a shot to the head, zombie style.
Or to recognize that I can’t do everything.
You see, RWA, Pikes Peak Writers Conference, Left Coast Crime, Bouchercon, and best yet, the Colorado Gold…so many places to go, as well as RMFW events monthly and even bi-monthly. A writer could spend all their time going to these fabulous events and conferences.
Every time one of my friends posts from an event, I’m filled with the fear that I’m missing out. And honestly, I probably am. There is much to learn and enjoy when it comes to writing and my writerly friends. This fact was driven home when the WOTY and I-WOTY nominees came out and I didn’t recognize a few names. Terrible, I know.
But one lesson I’ve learned over the past six years of being a published writer is my words come first. And in order to get them on the page, right now, I have to step back from the fun stuff like conference attendance and teaching gigs. It’s a tough lesson to learn. And sometimes one I struggle with. I miss you, my writer friends.
So be a pal, and share with me all the good stuff you’ve learned lately and things you’re excited to do this year. And please, smack me in the head if I start to drool and crave brains.
Good morning, Julie! I’m going to make a solid effort to get rid of FOMO because I need to write more and gallivant less. I did go to Left Coast Crime. I had a good time, and brought home some lovely books, but also brought home a case of bronchitis. It seems I get something every time I travel anywhere by air.
I was also surprised to see unfamiliar names on the WOTY and IWOTY nominee list. I wish I lived in Denver so I could get to more of the local events and meet more folks. But I don’t, so I need to banish the FOMO and get on with the writing. Write on!
Was LLC awesome? Did you speak on panels? Do a signing? Anything super cool? Sorry you’re sick. Planes are the worst.
I live in Denver, and still don’t make it to anything. The WOTY names really threw me off. I can’t believe how out of the loop I am. I have a ton of reading catch up to do.
Looking forward to seeing you in September to have a proper catch up.
When I don’t get out much, for several reasons not only writing, then I don’t know when I should be surprised by finalists or not. 🙂
Nice post, Julie.
Hope you feel better! And hey, I’m looking forward to getting out of Denver, so next party, retreat, luncheon, get together is at your place, Pat?
Julie, I went, many years, to the CO Gold and the Pikes Peak conferences. Then I started teaching. It is tough to think of forking out the money anymore after being spoiled by free conferences.