Therefore, I initially wondered just what I could talk about that hadn’t already been said. Then I realized, there was something that wasn’t an item, but it seems that I can’t live without it, no matter how hard I try.

The Benefits of Praise

I’ve long realized the benefits of praise from training Scruff (surely you’ve met my writing assistant before). Praise, and treats, contributed to Scruff’s transition from dog to little furry human in our house. Praise also played a huge role in raising my

twins, and what I feel is essential to being a good supervisor. Although criticism is often a good thing, if provided constructively and permitting growth, it never hurts to have a sprinkle of praise to make the medicine go down smoothly. I just hadn’t realized how much it affected my day-to-day life.
I’m a grown-ass woman, I don’t need praise to make me feel better—do I?

The Hazards of Author-dom

I talk a lot on the blog about the great things about being an author, but there’s much that goes unsaid. As a writer, and especially as an author, you’re pretty much baring your soul for dissection. It’s not as if it’s your personal story, but it is very personal.

So when you get those good reviews, or genuine compliments about your book, it is the best feeling ever. It can bring the sun out on the darkest day and allow the author to validate that they can write a good story.

Many authors will say that these things don’t matter, but they kind of do. Otherwise it’s like you’re advertising the “World’s Greatest Burger” but the only person who really tried this burger and liked it was you.

#Authors need validation to ensure that it’s a good story. We’re a bit needy like that (or perhaps it’s just me.) #MFRW #praise
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The Fire of Freelancing

Although I’ve always said you need a thick skin to be an author, I’ve found a place where your skin needs to be almost like armor. That’s freelance writing.

Granted, I’m not as attached to the writing as I am my story (because hey! Those characters are like family!) but the problem is that when you’re writing short pieces, for multiple people, you get MANY opinions, some praise and LOTS of criticism. People are paying you to write it, and they know exactly what the finished piece should look like, even if they haven’t figured that out yet.

So sometimes I’m on a roll, and I’m basking in the praise. It elevates my day until I feel untouchable. I’m a superstar! Other times I’m wallowing in criticism, edits, or rewrites and I start to feel like I’m an imposter and maybe this isn’t for me—because I’m not good enough, smart enough, heck I must really suck! (Not sure what Imposter Syndrome is? Check out my freelance article here.)

A Little Praise Will Do You Good

Sometimes I hate having a dependency on genuine, earned praise. But I realized years ago, it’s part of what makes me tick—and I can tell if it’s false. But praise is what makes many people do more than survive in life, it helps them thrive.

I suppose it’s the people-pleaser in me. So praise would be an “item” I can’t live without. That and Blistex. Water. Snacks and my computer to name just a few other essentials.

It’s a Blog Hop

Don’t forget to check out the other authors to see what item they can’t live without. I’m sure they’re not nearly as needy as me.

The post It’s Not an Item, But It Makes Life Better appeared first on Author Maureen L. Bonatch.

Normal is overrated

Everyone is a little bit crazy. Trust me, you might think you’re the most normal person in the world and there’s probably someone out there who thinks you might be a little bit weird. And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. In fact, that’s awesome. That’s what makes you more than a carbon copy of everyone else.

You can still be kick-ass #heroine while stumbling along life's journey. #MFRW
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My heroines fly their freak flags with pride while discovering theirs, and everyone else’s, little bit of super power.

Family Matters

Family isn’t always defined by blood. It’s the people you consider your posse. The one’s who’ve got your back through good times and bad. Even if they might be a bunch of oddballs you love them anyway because they embrace (or at least tolerate) all your weird habits, idiosyncrasies and temper tantrums. They’re the ones you can be your authentic self with because love soothes the savage beast. Whether it’s the stubborn alpha male, or your annoying sibling, turn the other cheek or maybe give them a hug. (Hugs make everything better.)

Don’t Forget your Four-Legged Family

Granted this could be interpreted as a shifter, or other paranormal being in a book, but in this instance, I’m referring to pets. Just about every story I write has one because as someone who’s shared a home with more than one four-legged fur baby over the years, I’ve come to appreciate many benefits even outside of their irresistible personality and stress-relieving benefits. They also make a great secondary character in a story (and a cute, yet sometimes cantankerous, writing assistant).

Who’s Laughing Now?

I hope it’s you that’s laughing—even if it’s at yourself. Laughter plays a

key part in my books in defining personalities, mending fences and making the best of a difficult situation.

Whether it’s in my light hearted paranormal, or my dark fantasies, I always love finding the humor in everyday situations. Not taking anything too seriously can save you a few wrinkles and grey hair.

#Laugh more. Worry less. You’ll find enough seriousness in everyday reality. #MFRW #books
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Find the Magic

In everything. Look a little closer at the world around you and the people with whom you share it. Everyone comes with their own special kind of magic – embrace it.

Find out What Other Life Lessons You can Learn from the Other Authors in the #MFRW Blog Hop

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post If Only Laughter Was the Best Medicine appeared first on Author Maureen L. Bonatch.

for my rosette from The Wild Rose Press entitled, That Magic Moment.

Blurb:

As the last witch in the Turner line, Celeste doesn’t know if she’s finally found true love or if her grandma cast a love spell to continue the Turner line. Dane Johns is a man not easily forgotten, but that’s exactly what Celeste plans to do. Because he has one big flaw. He’s a mortal.

Dane Johns doesn’t know it but he’s under a spell, and Celeste Turner is the cure. Mysteriously healing his injury while captivating his heart, Dane is enchanted. Although once he discovers Celeste’s secret he must decide if he’s charmed enough to not only accept love into his life, but the world of magic.

Find out more about That Magic Moment right here. 

Grab Your Copy at Amazon

What Do You Love on a Book Cover? 

The post I got my cover art!! appeared first on Author Maureen L. Bonatch.