During my years as a high school journalism instructor and publications adviser, I wore more metaphorical hats that I can count. I was teacher, leader, disciplinarian, benevolent dictator, editor, writing coach, photography teacher, videography trainer, computer tech, software expert, graphic design guru, and self-proclaimed comedian—and that’s just scratching the surface.
At the same time I was engaging in all those full-time jobs, I was raising a family and wearing even more hats. At home, I was (among other roles) a scheduler, social chair, wardrobe consultant, psychologist, meal planner, chef, medical diagnostician, chauffer, playmate—and again, benevolent dictator.
I’m not sure why I thought I’d be juggling fewer identities as an author, but here I am again, wearing hats that stretch to the ceiling and beyond. When I started on my first novel, I anticipated being a writer, self-editor, and researcher. Then came the roles of public relations specialist, critique partner, communications expert, marketer, panel speaker, and social media presenter. Toss in serving as secretary of Sisters in Crime.
Additionally, as an indie author, I must choose a cover designer and editor, then format my books, upload them, proof them, publish them, monitor their status, and tweak them as needed. I’m also a small business operator, accountant, tax consultant, and advertiser. Oh, and apparently, master whiner.
No wonder I’m exhausted. And no wonder I’m feeling spread so thin.
On the positive side, I love learning new things and am truly enjoying what I’m doing. But still, at the moment I’m feeling a bit like a jack of all trades and master of none.
So, I think, just for today, I’m going to chuck it all and read a book. Maybe I’ll go to a movie for good measure. Then, by tomorrow morning, I’ll be ready to juggle the hats again.
What is your go-to activity when you’re feeling overwhelmed?
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Lori Roberts Herbst writes the Callie Cassidy Mysteries, a cozy mystery series set in Rock Creek Village, Colorado. To find out more and to sign up for her newsletter, go to www.lorirobertsherbst.com
There are very few things positive I can say about my late husband's years-old bout with dementia, but one thing it did do is show me true priorities (his care and happiness) and to slow down to enjoy what we could. One outcome is that I put the brakes on long before I feel totally overwhelmed, even though it means a lot of things I "should" be doing don't get done. And I don't feel any poorer for that.
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine the heartache, Kathleen, but what a sweet gift he left you. How insightful of you to grasp it—and how tender of you to share it.
ReplyDeleteNo TikTok for me either! When I’m overwhelmed, I take a hike. Literally! Often heading into the woods that make up our back yard or head for one of the lesser mountains in the area. If that fails (this is Northern Maine, there are times….) Then I snuggle in with my TBR and join my favorite characters in their imaginary worlds. Never fails.
ReplyDeleteAhhh, that sounds lovely, Kait! I'm in the city, but we have a trail close by—in fact, just got back from there. No mountain views, unfortunately...
ReplyDeleteWhen I'm overwhelmed, I read a book or work a jigsaw puzzle. I've been through the mother/kids raising/full-time job phase. So done with that.
ReplyDeleteReading is the best salve, Susan! My husband does jigsaw puzzles, but I prefer cross stitching.
ReplyDeletecrossword puzzles and reading work for me, Lori. Take care.
ReplyDeleteWe all love reading, don’t we? I used to do crossword puzzles, then got stuck on sudoku.
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