Hello October
What have you learned?
“Great art picks up where nature ends.” Mac Chagall
The creative process isn’t a destination—it’s a journey, much like planning a wedding. You spend months, or even years, dreaming, preparing, and organizing then, in what feels like a blink of an eye, the big day is over. But unlike a wedding, the journey of writing and illustrating doesn’t end. It continues with all of the ups and downs and experiences along the way.
This month, my illustration group is focusing on things we’ve learned. For me, my writing and illustrating groups have been invaluable. These people have made this creative journey special and I would not be here if it weren’t for them. One of the lessons I’ve learned is the value of taking time out to pause and reflect—on where I’ve been.
Sometimes, when I feel stuck or felt like I haven’t learned anything new, it’s tempting to beat myself up, thinking I’m not making progress. This only makes me feel worse. But now, I’ve learned to expect and accept those moments. I try hard to quiet my internal critic and be kinder to myself, though it’s not always easy. Sometimes it feels like I’m buried in the trenches and it’s difficult to see the way forward.
It’s easy to get off track but regrouping and staying focused is key.
For me, keeping things simple works best:
Setting clear, small goals — breaking steps down like drawing one page or sketching one character at a time.
Keeping my desk and work space organized. (I have to get better at this.)
Setting a timer and using time blocks. 30 - 45 minutes work best for me.
Limiting distractions - This is a weak spot for me—especially with social media. (I tell myself, I’m researching, but that turns into endless scrolling.)
Embracing imperfection - I no longer chase that illusive dream of perfection. Instead, I try to keep my writing and illustrating simple and clear.
Recently, I self published, CECELIA SAYS NO and was excited to receive a Kirkus Review. They praised Cecelia for, “administering a master class in the concept by example, and described the book as, “an approachable lesson about saying ‘no’ for young readers. — Kirkus Reviews
Kirkus also described my drawings “simple” which I’m perfectly content with—because they are. And in their own way— imperfectly perfect.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned on this creative journey is that doing anything worthwhile, requires taking a risk on yourself—and often doing things scared. When I first started drawing, it was only a dream to be able to illustrate my story. It took a ton of time to create thumbnails, book dummies, edits, revisions and more edits but the feeling of holding my book in my hands and turning the pages was worth every step.
Self publishing is daunting. Managing all on your own—the storytelling, editing, illustrating, book design, publishing, marketing, sales, book tours all while writing your next story is overwhelming. And that’s where breaking things down to one step at a time on a daily basis has helped me.
If you’re curious to know more about CECELIA SAYS NO or want to order a copy, I’ve included the links at the end. It would mean so much if you could ask your local library to order a copy.
I encourage you dear reader to continue embracing new challenges for yourself and stepping outside of your comfort zone. I am thankful to have you on this journey and appreciate your support. I look forward to sharing more next month.
All are invited to join our monthly podcast where we discuss this month’s topic on things we’ve learned. Please check it by out clicking the link below to register.
https://lu.ma/hg2fsa6m?locale=en-AU
All the best until then,
Noreen Ann
The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/noreen-anne/cecelia-says-no-when-friendship-and-boundaries-col/
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=cecelia+says+no&crid=35LHA0UN9LGYQ&sprefix=cecelia+says+no+%2Caps%2C146&ref=nb_sb_noss_2