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Feb 2023

I've scheduled to post the beginning of my debut fantasy serial novel in 4 days (February 6th) and I'm terrified to the point that I wouldn't be shocked if I self-justify random excuses to delay.

I'm a fairly experienced writer with two complete (unpublished) novels, a couple more unfinished novels, and dozens of short stories under my belt over the past two decades. However, I rarely posted any of my stories publicly.

I've received plenty of feedback in small groups, so I'm not necessarily concerned about the quality of my writing (though no matter how much positive response I get, there's always self-doubt creeping in).

I'm not sure exactly what it is that makes me so hesitant to pull the trigger on posting. The fear of being judged... The fear of wasting my time... Trauma from a previous experience with a troll... Something else...

Anyone else struggle with this? Does the feeling ever go away? :sweat_smile:

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    Feb '23
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    Mar '23
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I went through some similar feelings when I decided to post up a novel for the first time. My novels and the characters therein are things I have put my heart and soul into creating, and it can be scary to open yourself up and share all that.

But after the first few chapters that started to go away and now I'm excited for every chapter I post. I hope it will be the same for you, and please share the link with us once it is posted (if you feel comfortable doing so :grin: )

I've been there, I dont think I have your experience but I have been writing for a few years and only started considering to upload something since last year, I'm happy to say I took the leap this week and I'm glad you are taking it as well, when you post it please let us know so we can check it out.

I think that feeling will never go away jeje

Oh man I know this feeling all too well, as well as the ‘I’m not even sure why I’m feeling like this!’ part.

I also agree with everything that’s been said here. For me, it’s still scary a lot of the time - but I also find that the feeling quickly goes away after I post and I’m not even sure what I was scared of.

I’d say if you can identify why you’re scared addressing it would be easier, but even if you can’t you can still do it scared. I’ll also say that if you’re feeling like you’re truly not ready, then waiting it also perfectly fine and you shouldn’t beat yourself up over it - putting your story out into the world is scary. I’m not sure that’s the case here though :slight_smile:

I hope whatever you decide, fear turns into excitement very soon. You got this author. Good luck!

Don't be terrified. To be completely honest, I don't take my writing too seriously. I suppose it's because I don't need any possible income though. Just appreciate your own work and believe in yourself. Don't expect too much popularity at first. It's important to note that tapas is mainly marketed as a comic site, even though there are tons of novel readers on the website. As you interact with your readers more, you'll find yourself excited to post stuff and share your ideas. That's what I experience when I started out here.

Hi all! Thanks so much for the words of support! It truly helps. :slight_smile: Awesome to see such a kind community of writers here.

I'm going to force myself to post. The whole point of doing this was to help me write more consistently (with accountability) and to work on something where I can let loose and have fun rather than take it too seriously!

1 month later

closed Mar 5, '23

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