October 31, 2019
The comfort zone is such a wonderful place. It’s just so snug and comfy, isn’t it? It’s where you feel relaxed, in the groove, and free of worry. As a writer, it’s where your work is a known quantity, where you’re able to write stories and books in a style or genre that feels most natural to you.
But the groove can become a rut, if you’re not careful. I know it well, as I’ve spent my fair share of time there, following well-worn paths without really challenging myself. After a while, though, if you’re paying attention, you might realize you’ve been in the comfort zone for too long, and it’s time to break free. What you’ve been writing isn’t working the way you want it to, and you need to make a change to level up.
That’s what 2019 has been about for me, breaking habits and dragging myself out of the comfort zone. It hasn’t been easy, let me tell you; that ol’ zone is pretty darn sweet, or I wouldn’t have spent so much time there in the first place. But little by little, I’ve been making the shift—changing the style, length, subject matter, and depth of my work.
I’m not done yet, not by a long shot…and that’s frustrating. I see now that the reinvention process will continue into 2020 for me. That’s longer than expected, but at least I’ve made a start. You can’t change the direction of a ship all at once, right?
And I feel like I’m on the right track, which is important…and exciting. After years of treading water in certain ways, I’m making solid forward progress. You’ll see the results soon, as I roll out new novels and other projects that take my worlds and characters in very new directions.
Come along for the ride and share the new road I’ve taken. One thing I can tell you for sure: it won’t be boring…unlike a certain zone we all know a little too well.
