Courage & Embarrassment: The Dynamic Duo

I'm mortified when I think back to the terrible state of the first draft of my first manuscript being read by my good friend (who thankfully, an editor, was helpful and kind, yet truthful). I learned a lot! Did she laugh at my naivety when she read it? Probably! Does she still laugh when she thinks about it? Maybe. Does it matter? Embarrassment is awfully uncomfortable — nauseating even. No-one likes it. But — it's okay!

Cringeworthy Moments and Memories Stifle Creativity — or Not...

The idea of embarrassment induces a yuk feeling, to be avoided — BUT, if it freezes your next step and all forward motion, it's time to hang out with snowmen (snow-people). Snow-people don't move with determination carving a path for themselves! They stay put, and watch the world go by, (unless they're a Disney character). By the way, if "Frozen" the film, is now stuck in your head — sorry — but have another listen to the annoyingly catchy song, "Let it Go."

If, embarrassment becomes your friend instead of enemy, you can invite it over! Have a cup-of-tea, then wave it out the door. Embarrassment is a busy guy! It's got plenty of other places to be and people to see. It'll be back down the track for another visit, so keep the kettle on.

Courage in the Face of Embarrassment

I risk embarrassment because I have to. My writing won't improve without showing it to beta-readers and experts, for feedback, to make it better. Big-girl-pants must be put on; courage must be called on. Embarrassment is expected. And ... it's actually not that big-of-a-deal ... I feel it ... and let it go!

Image credit: Pam Patterson from Pixabay