To say it was an emotional roller coaster of a week is an understatement. Last week, just after I was downsized from my full-time job, I received this email:
Click here for the press release for this award announcement.
This was a welcome surprise that turned what could have possibly been a frustrating week into one filled with hope. There’s something great about being recognized for something you love to do. This award not only made me feel proud about a work I produced, it also validated my expertise at something I love: writing and publishing.
When a person is downsized due to a company restructure, the reality is that it’s most likely not about the person’s work or work ethic. In fact, they may have been doing a great job. All of my performance reviews were “very good” or “above average” before my position was eliminated. But it still feels like a blow to one’s confidence, nonetheless. It can make one wonder if their career path is the right path for them.
For me, this award built back the confidence I might have lost just a few days before from losing my job. It also solidified my belief that my job search direction to find marketing and writing jobs that utilize the skills I used to publish this book is the right path. In addition, I received more confidence that writing the next book ( and the next) is also something I should continue to pursue.
In a world where it’s harder than ever to make any of the big bestseller lists as an indie author, and where corporate employers may not understand the wealth of knowledge and variety of experience they’re seeing when they see “independent publisher and author” on a resume, getting recognized with awards like these gives writers a much needed boost to their psyches and keeps them writing. While this may not translate into blockbuster sales or propel me into the top ten on the New York Times bestseller list, this award skyrockets my confidence at a time where it’s much needed.
On to book three!
