"To Admit Or Not To Admit"

I don't know how many fellow writers share that they are aspiring authors. I know I have never really done so with strangers. It's been just this past year that I've shared a bit more about my writing with relatives since I signed with an agent.

Other than that, I'm pretty closed mouth about it, because well, the obvious reason is I'm not published and it's difficult for me to share my hopes and dreams. I've placed in one short story contest, not adding up to a whole lotta proof I have talent. =)

However, last night I had a school meeting for one of my kids, and it was a "share about yourself" scenario with another parent in class. When asked what I do in my spare time, I hesitated, then finally blurted, "I write." The woman's expression became interested and she asked a few questions because we were supposed to share the information with the other parents.

Anyway, I've known this teacher for a couple of years and I had never mentioned that I was a writer before. So when the woman announced it, it was this big eyes-all-on-me thing: "Kelly, you write? When did this happen?" I turned red from having everyone focus on me! And admitted that yes, I have an agent and that I was trying to get a book published.

What I'm getting at is that when you actually acknowledge you're a writer to people, there's also this little fear that they now know you're trying to get published, but are wondering if it will really happen! For instance, every time I see my relatives, they ask, "How's the writing going?" And I say, "good." For some reason you're expected to say something positive, like you're sold! And if I go into the complicated process of submissions and editors and publishing houses soon their eyes start to glaze over. I'm telling you it opens up a whole can of worms when you admit you're a writer!! LOL!

And now I'm thinking I should have kept my big mouth shut at the school meeting. ;D