by Katie Frawley
Say what you will about 2020, it sure was a year of comfortable pants. Sweat pants, pajama pants, yoga pants, no pants. I’m all for being comfortable in our clothes, but being comfortable in our writing lives? Not so much.
When I first started writing picture books in 2016, funny manuscripts poured out. Silly stories. Kooky characters. Goofy gags. That was my jam! My debut picture book, TABITHA AND FRITZ TRADE PLACES, is a funny story about a cat and an elephant who do a vacation home swap through a website called LairBnB. It was a pleasure to write, and I hope it’s a hoot for kids to read!
I wore my comfortable picture book pants day in, day out. They were familiar, well-worn, and had just the right amount of stretch around the waist. Ahhhh.
Then, a few months back, opportunity knocked. Unanticipated, unfamiliar, uncomfortable OPPORTUNITY.
A friend in the movie business reached out and asked if I’d like to participate in a writer’s lab for a children’s animation studio. Here’s how the conversation went…
Her: Have you ever thought about writing children’s animation?
My brain: What? Animation? Like movies and stuff? COOL!
Me: I haven’t! Do you have something specific in mind?
Her: I’d like to get you into a writer’s lab. You’d need to come up with 10 movie or TV series pitches in two weeks. What do you think?
My brain: Say yes! Say YES! YES, YOU IDIOT!!!!!
Me: I’d love to give it a try! Thanks for thinking of me!
Her: I’ll be in touch with details.
Me: Talk soon!
My brain: Wait! We don’t know anything about writing for the screen. We only write picture books. WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH YOU???
Writing these pitches was miles outside my comfort zone. Not only had I never thought about writing a screenplay, I’d never even read one. I can pitch a picture book like Nolan Ryan, but animation pitches? It was a whole new ballgame. But there was no backing out now. So I put on my big girl pants (which are MUCH less comfortable than sweatpants, by the way) and got to work.
It wasn’t easy. Most of it wasn’t fun. But I cranked it out. I flexed different parts of my brain, I repurposed old Storystorm ideas, I almost cried a few times! And the result? Well, I don’t actually know yet! My fingers are still very much crossed. But I know one thing. I am a stronger writer for the journey. The mere act of pushing myself was the reward.
So, here’s my advice to you: Get out of your comfort zone! If you only write humor, try something soulful. If you’ve been a rhymer so far, slip into some prose. If you tend toward true stories, see how fiction feels. As you jot your way through StoryStorm, write down ANY idea that calls to you, whether it feels familiar or not. Maybe you’ll writer a winner; maybe you won’t. But you’ll benefit from the journey either way.
And remember, if you’re going to push yourself outside your comfort zone, you might as well wear comfortable pants.
Katie Frawley studied English at the University of Florida (GO GATORS!) and earned a Master’s Degree in British and American literature from Florida Atlantic University. Before having her children, she had the distinct honor of teaching English to rowdy teenagers. When not banging away on the keyboard, Katie can be found testing new recipes with her miniature sous chefs, shooing iguanas away from her garden, or reading picture books to a captive audience on the couch. Katie lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with her husband, five children, and a handsome mutt named Nantucket.
Find Katie on Twitter @KatieFrawley1 or at her website katiefrawley.com. Katie’s debut, TABITHA AND FRITZ TRADE PLACES, is traveling to shelves on the first of June! If you’d like to pre-order, please support your local indie!
Katie is giving away one picture book and one copy of TABITHA AND FRITZ TRADE PLACES when it’s released.
Two separate winners will be randomly selected.
Leave one comment below to enter.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below.
673 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 19, 2021 at 8:04 am
Sara Ackerman
What a cool opportunity! I’m getting out of my comfort zone by trying out co-authoring. Definitely a new experience!
January 19, 2021 at 9:55 am
Katie Frawley
Co-authoring! How cool!
February 5, 2021 at 7:26 am
kaleegwarjanski
Great advice! Thanks for sharing
January 19, 2021 at 8:08 am
Deb Sullivan
What a fun post Katie – thanks for sharing. And good luck with your series pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 9:55 am
Katie Frawley
Thanks Deb!
January 19, 2021 at 8:08 am
michelemeleen
Such a great reminder that creativity isn’t always comfortable! I’m usually a humor & heart fiction gal, but this year all my Storystorm ideas are nonfiction.
January 21, 2021 at 1:01 pm
Annie Lynn, AnnieBirdd Music, LLC
Can I use that, @michelemeleen? Creativity isn’t always comfortable. wow. true.✌🏼😁🌻
January 19, 2021 at 8:14 am
boardmancamera
Sometimes, just sitting down in front of the blank screen or paper and writing is a leap out of my comfort zone of mindless time-wasting activities. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 19, 2021 at 8:16 am
Cathy L. Murphy
Thanks for the superb advice, Katie! I’ll seek out uncomfortable opportunities in order to grow.
January 19, 2021 at 8:18 am
Andrea Mack
Great advice! Every year I try to challenge myself by writing one style of picture book I haven’t tried before. They often don’t work but it does sometimes spark new ideas or a new perspective.
January 19, 2021 at 9:56 am
Katie Frawley
Yep! Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t. Good for you for pushing yourself!
January 19, 2021 at 8:22 am
Meaghan Br
I am happy to hear you ventured outside your comfort zone. I heard someone say once ‘nothing ever grows in your comfort zone’ and I couldn’t agree more. Here’s to 2021 and venturing outside our comfort zones 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 8:25 am
Nadine Poper
I have writing pants too! Fingers crossed with the screen plays!
January 19, 2021 at 8:25 am
Leslie Tayloe
I loved your post. Always fun to try something new.
January 19, 2021 at 8:27 am
kiwijenny
Not only was this great advice but a new fashion parade is in order…pants for pantsers…or pass the pants..or what pants were you wearing when….
Lol thank you and congratulations on your new venture.
January 19, 2021 at 11:21 am
Katie Frawley
Hahahahaha!
January 19, 2021 at 8:28 am
lavern15
That sounds exactly like something I would’ve done. Hilarious! Praying good things come your way, Katey.
January 19, 2021 at 9:57 am
Katie Frawley
Thanks, Lavern! Fingers crossed!
January 19, 2021 at 8:30 am
Elyse Trevers
I love your advice. Ironically since I am basically a journalist, children’s picture books ARE outside my comfort zone! I enjoyed reading your blog
Thanks
January 19, 2021 at 8:30 am
Amy Houts
What a great opportunity! Wow! I’m excited for you. I’m going to follow you on Twitter to find out the happy ending.
January 19, 2021 at 9:58 am
Katie Frawley
Yay! See you in the Twitterverse!
January 19, 2021 at 8:30 am
Cristina Raymer
Wow, what a great opportunity! Leaving your comfort zone is definitely a challenge, but great advice. Thank you and good luck!
January 19, 2021 at 8:31 am
thecrowsmap
Katie, thanks for the encouragement to mix things up! Congratulations on your book and good luck with those pitches.
Gail Hartman
January 19, 2021 at 8:32 am
readmybook2002
Thank you for the post. I sometimes beat myself and my brain up every so often. But the best is when you try something new and learn from it.
January 19, 2021 at 8:32 am
Melissa Trempe is querying (@melissa_trempe)
Kate – good luck with your 10 pitches! I tend to write funny and I’ve had a recent desire to write something more serious and sweet. I think it’s a great idea to try different styles.
January 19, 2021 at 9:59 am
Katie Frawley
Yes! Follow those impulses! My storystorm idea from Saturday is begging to be written in RHYME. EEK!
January 19, 2021 at 8:32 am
Jeanne Cherney
Thank you so much! Great ideas.
January 19, 2021 at 8:35 am
Mitchell Linda
An elephant and a cat trading places? Oh, my gosh. That IS funny. What a great sense of humor. Gosh, your experience that almost made you cry a few times…actually a pretty good idea. I’ll bet you felt stretched!
January 19, 2021 at 8:40 am
Lori Sheroan
Thanks for the encouragement to courageously venture out of our writing comfort zones. I needed that.
January 19, 2021 at 8:41 am
rosecappelli
Thanks for the advice. It’s usually starts out a bit scary and sometimes doesn’t go anywhere, but when I push myself to try something different, I’m often pleasantly surprised. Thanks for the reminder, and good luck!!!
January 19, 2021 at 10:16 am
Katie Frawley
Thanks for the luck! And even if it doesn’t go anywhere, your brain still benefits from the exercise!
January 19, 2021 at 8:42 am
stiefelchana
Oh I love this! Congrats Katey! Gonna try on some itchy pants and get really uncomfortable today. I hope it sparks some ideas.
January 19, 2021 at 10:05 am
Katie Frawley
Yes! The itchier the better! Hahahaha.
January 19, 2021 at 8:44 am
Kimberly Marcus
Good advice, thanks! And good luck!!
January 19, 2021 at 8:46 am
steveheron
I have never thought about the pants I wear when I write. Something new to try, thanks.
January 19, 2021 at 8:46 am
Lydia Leimbach
Just the push I’ve needed to embrace an idea I’ve had for a while. Thanks!
January 19, 2021 at 8:47 am
meganu
Wow, that sounds so exciting—and scary! All best wishes for this new endeavor.
January 19, 2021 at 10:00 am
Katie Frawley
SO SCARY!!! But the good kind of scary. Keep kicking Storystorm butt!
January 19, 2021 at 8:50 am
ajchannis
Loved the LairBnB. I think this is what I like most about writing. Taking the standard or familiar and giving it some kind of twist.
Good luck with movie plots.
Ajchski.
January 19, 2021 at 8:50 am
Jay
Thank you for the good advice. Fingers crossed for you!
January 19, 2021 at 8:51 am
Mark Bentz
Thank you Katie, what a fun post.
Best of luck in your creative adventures.
January 19, 2021 at 10:15 am
Katie Frawley
Thanks, Mark!
January 19, 2021 at 8:51 am
Kay
Yep getting out of your comfort zone is a journey
January 19, 2021 at 8:52 am
RebeccaTheWriter
It’s funny. The same kind of thing happened to me in 2020. I used to think of myself as a type of writer who needed long stretches of time to write ANYTHING. So when I was invited in April to do a poem-a-day challenge, I was like “there’s no way I can write at that pace— and definitely not anything good.” Well, I tried it, thinking I wouldn’t get passed day 1, and ultimately wrote 30 poems in 30 days and many of them I ended up turning into PB manuscripts. So yes, you never know what will happen when you get out of that Comfort Zone!!
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
January 19, 2021 at 10:01 am
Katie Frawley
What a cool challenge!
January 19, 2021 at 8:52 am
Jessica Hinrichs
Hi from a fellow Floridian! 👋 Your book looks adorable!! I can’t wait to read it!!
January 19, 2021 at 10:21 am
Katie Frawley
WOOOOO! Florida power!!!! The weather (in South Florida, anyway) is perfect for writing outdoors. I’m heading out with my notebook to push my brain. Good luck with storystorm!
January 19, 2021 at 8:52 am
Maria
Thanks for the great advice. Anything that makes us a little uncomfortable is probably worth doing. Congratulations on Tabitha & Fritz Trade Places!
January 19, 2021 at 8:53 am
Colleen Owen Murphy
What a great opportunity for you and how stressful! I can imagine how many doors this has now opened in your brain. Thank you for sharing your experience. I am trying hard to write something other than a rhyming MS, but it is hard!!
January 19, 2021 at 10:13 am
Katie Frawley
I hear you, Colleen. My brain naturally worked in rhyme when I first started writing picture books. Keep pushing yourself! YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!
January 20, 2021 at 5:36 pm
Colleen Owen Murphy
Thanks Katie! I will keep trying!
January 19, 2021 at 8:55 am
Julia
Great advice to get out of your comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 9:00 am
Betsy
But I’m so comfortable in my comfort zone!! Hahaha! It’s great advice! Looking forward to seeing your ideas in animation as well as your picture book… can’t wait to see it.
January 19, 2021 at 9:02 am
saintamovin
Thank you Katie 😊
January 19, 2021 at 9:04 am
Melisa Wrex
I have learned that I def have a writing style I prefer and I need to break out. Thank you for the kick in my stretchy pants.
January 19, 2021 at 9:04 am
Laura Bower
Thank you Katie! I am definitely going to push myself this year to write outside of my comfort zone! Good luck with your pitches – sounds so exciting!! And congrats on Tabitha and Fritz!
January 19, 2021 at 10:23 am
Katie Frawley
Thanks, Laura! I’m sure the land outside your comfort zone is just bursting with creativity!
January 19, 2021 at 9:07 am
Susan Drew
Good luck! I hope you hear about your pitches soon.
January 19, 2021 at 9:08 am
Sarah Stuart
Thank you for this boosts of encouragement to move outside of the comfort zone. I’ve definitely found a rut over the past year. Going to try your ideas today. Thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 9:08 am
Sara Fajardo
best of luck on the screenplays. What a cool opportunity.
January 19, 2021 at 9:11 am
Melissa H. Mwai
What a great opportunity. Best of luck with your pitches. Or to ideate now.
January 19, 2021 at 9:12 am
mjmeyer06
Big girl pants? Thank you for a glimmer of light. I tried something new just this week!
January 19, 2021 at 9:15 am
https://katiewalsh.blog/
Ha! I love this post. Thanks for the push!
January 19, 2021 at 9:15 am
jbbower
Thanks for a great post Katey. Good luck with your pitches!! And, you are right; we often do our best when we are pushed out of our norm.
January 19, 2021 at 9:15 am
Kelly Rice Schmitt
I love this story of saying YES! And pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. Thank you for sharing.
January 19, 2021 at 9:16 am
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
What a cool opportunity. Sometimes even if it seems we’re not up to it, we can surprise ourselves by rising to the occasion.
January 19, 2021 at 9:20 am
Joan Swanson
Thanks for the advise, good luck!
January 19, 2021 at 9:21 am
Erin Rew
Love this! I have been trying to push myself out of my comfort zone. Let’s see where it takes me.
January 19, 2021 at 10:17 am
Katie Frawley
Good luck, Erin!
January 22, 2021 at 5:09 pm
Jewanna Apawu
Appreciate this advice, my 2021 mantra is “get uncomfortable,” so this fits right in!
January 19, 2021 at 9:22 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
Sound advice to step out of our comfort zones, Katey. (I’ve only been wearing comfy pants…) Congrats on the animation pitches and TABITHA AND FRITZ TRADE PLACES. I’m looking forward to reading it!
January 19, 2021 at 10:03 am
Katie Frawley
Thanks, Robin! I hope you love Tabitha and Fritz as much as I do!
January 19, 2021 at 9:22 am
Julie Maria Harris
Thank you for today’s challenge and dose of inspiration!
January 19, 2021 at 9:25 am
Tanya Konerman
As I sit in my sweatpants and t-shirt reading your post, I recognized an idea I challenged myself with a few years ago: to write in each format, such as circular, free verse, parallel, etc. I’m only part-way into that challenge, but I’m already seeing progress in my creativity and growth!
January 19, 2021 at 10:19 am
Katie Frawley
Cheers to creativity and growth! How wonderful!
January 19, 2021 at 9:25 am
Sherri Jones Rivers
Wow. What a special opportunity you were given. I smell success in the offing. I need to follow your advice for going somewhere different in my writing.
January 19, 2021 at 10:04 am
Katie Frawley
Yes! Pick a genre of PB you’ve never written and come up with an idea TODAY. Even if it’s the worst idea ever, write it down. You’ve got this, Sherri!
January 19, 2021 at 9:29 am
acottykid
Thank you for sharing.
January 19, 2021 at 9:29 am
Midge Ballou Smith
Great advice, Katey! Thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 9:33 am
Marla Yablon
Wow! I’m still working up to regular pitches! Who even knew animation pitches existed? I mean, if you thought about it, of course! Good luck on your new adventure!
January 19, 2021 at 9:35 am
Rebster
What a fun post! And you book looks fab! Thanks for the reminder to write every idea down on the page.
January 19, 2021 at 9:39 am
Jennifer Skene
Feeling inspired to try something new!
January 19, 2021 at 10:20 am
Katie Frawley
Hooray! Good luck, Jennifer!
January 19, 2021 at 9:41 am
Joan Longstaff
What a great (and fun) post. I only ever used to write in rhyme, but then pushed myself to write in prose and now I’ve got more prose than rhyme stories under my belt. During this storystorm, I’ve also been getting lots of non fiction ideas which have scared and excited me in equal measure … so am going to push myself to move into another zone and see where it takes me. Thank you fro sharing.
January 19, 2021 at 10:11 am
Katie Frawley
That’s wonderful, Joan! I started out as a rhymer too, but quickly found prose to be more productive for me. But a couple days ago, I got a storystorm idea that’s begging to be written in rhyme. Time to push myself again!
January 19, 2021 at 9:43 am
Tanja Bauerle
How exciting! Sending you good thoughts for your animation writing class. Great idea to start with a pitch when writing a book. It is something that is needed anyway down the line. Thank you. T
January 19, 2021 at 9:44 am
Meli Glickman
My goodness these tips are helpful AND they are fun, too! Thanks so much for sharing!
January 19, 2021 at 9:45 am
paulajbecker
How exciting when things like that happen! Thank you for sharing!
January 19, 2021 at 9:47 am
Lisa P
Good luck to you with the screen plays! I definitely need to get outside of my comfort zone, it’s time!
January 19, 2021 at 11:32 am
Katie Frawley
It is time! Indeed! Slip into your comfiest pants and get uncomfortable!
January 19, 2021 at 9:47 am
pathaap
What a wonderful opportunity for you! You never know what you are capable of unless you step outside your comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 9:47 am
M.R.
Thanks for the great reminder that getting outside our comfort zone can lead to wondrous adventures! And (gotta say it) GO NOLES! 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 10:06 am
Katie Frawley
Who let this guy in here? SECURITY!!! 😉
January 19, 2021 at 9:48 am
tasha woodson
good reminder to try something different – great life advice too! thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 9:50 am
ryanrobertsauthor
Great advice, Thanks!
January 19, 2021 at 9:51 am
Cortney Benvenuto
Great advice! Thanks for the inspiration and good luck with the pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 9:52 am
Jany Campana
Thanks Katey, You’ve inspired me to put on my big girl pants!
January 19, 2021 at 10:07 am
Katie Frawley
They’re not my favorite pants, but they get the job done! Good luck!
January 19, 2021 at 9:56 am
Katie L. Carroll
Stretching out of our comfort zones is so important for the creative life. Hoping you get good news on those pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 10:08 am
Katie Frawley
Thanks, Katie! Fingers crossed! Enjoy stretching out of your comfort zone!!!
January 19, 2021 at 10:00 am
Beatrice Brown
Hey, Katey. Thanks for the encouragement. I’m in my comfortable pants and ready to roll, I mean write.
Tabitha and Fritz Trade Places looks like a fun read.
January 19, 2021 at 10:00 am
georgeneeb
Great advice! Good luck with this project, Katie -very exciting!
January 19, 2021 at 10:00 am
Debra Shumaker
Brilliant! Thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 10:02 am
Melanie Ellsworth
I’m rooting for your pitches, Katie! I totally agree about getting out of your comfort zone – it reinvigorates my writing.
January 19, 2021 at 10:05 am
Christine Fleming McIsaac
What a cool opportunity! Good luck!! Thanks for the suggestion to try different types of writing.
January 19, 2021 at 10:05 am
Louann Brown
I think of myself as a children’s poetry and picture book writer. But during the pandemic I’ve been swimming in a less familiar pond: non-fiction. The research is my favorite part. Still struggling with writing it. Best of Luck with your new adventure. Thanks for your post.
January 19, 2021 at 10:09 am
Katie Frawley
Those deep dive research sessions can lead to some amazing places!
January 19, 2021 at 10:09 am
Tina Hoggatt (@tinahoggatt)
I love this post!
January 19, 2021 at 10:12 am
Krissy
Great advice! Loved the pants humor too! Reaching out of my comfort zone is something I try to remind myself of in every aspect of life. Easier said than done, but totally worth it!
January 19, 2021 at 10:15 am
Katie Frawley
Totally agree! Worth it every time!
January 19, 2021 at 10:13 am
marsha weiner
Medtitation is helping me to get comfortable in my own skin; Writing is pushing me out of comfort zone…. Like the grandfather in MOONSTRUCK, when Johnny comes to tell Loretta he can’t marry her, while Ronny is there to propose, all in front of the entire extended family… the grandfather says,”… I’m confused”
January 19, 2021 at 10:13 am
pollyrenner
Wow! Congrats on pushing your writer boundary! I hope something cool happens for you with the animation team! I love your book, too – what a great idea!!
January 19, 2021 at 10:14 am
Megan Whitaker
Well, that sounds downright terrifying! Glad you got through it and I’m sure you came up with some amazing ideas for a future group of littles 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 10:17 am
Nancy Colle
Love your dog’s name! (Nantucket – so fun!) Also love your idea of writing outside your comfort zone. Maybe I’ll give it a try.
Thank you:)
January 19, 2021 at 10:25 am
Katie Frawley
I hope you find it as fruitful as I do. Good luck, Nancy!
January 19, 2021 at 10:18 am
Writer on the run
Thanks Katie for reminding me that I don’t need to see the whole staircase in order to take the first step! Always scary!
January 19, 2021 at 11:30 am
Katie Frawley
Absolutely. What a great metaphor!
January 19, 2021 at 10:18 am
Cinzia V.
Thanks for sharing your story! Love the advice and your example of going out of your comfort zone. Makes me want to put on some real clothes and write (okay, maybe not the real clothes part)
January 19, 2021 at 10:21 am
Dee Knabb
That’s so exciting, Katie. I was laughing throughout your blog. Hilarious! We all need a good kick in the pants to write out of our comfort zone. Such good advice.
January 19, 2021 at 10:24 am
Katie Frawley
Thanks, Dee! I’m so glad I made you laugh! And if you ever need someone to kick you in the pants, you know where to find me! 😉
January 19, 2021 at 10:21 am
Jen Angel
Love trying out new things…hope you land one!
January 19, 2021 at 10:21 am
Leah Moser
Thanks for sharing your experience! I appreciate the post.
January 19, 2021 at 10:23 am
bookthreader
Great advice. I challenge myself to try something new today!
Moni. ☺️
January 19, 2021 at 10:24 am
Jessica Stremer
Great advice! I think it’s easy to put ourselves in one corner with the types of books we enjoy writing, but you never know what other styles you may be good at. Thanks for sharing.
January 19, 2021 at 10:25 am
Mrs. Vandivier
Getting out of one’s comfort zone is a tough thing to do…but sometimes you just have to. Love this…and good luck on your pitches.
January 19, 2021 at 10:28 am
Kathy Crable
Thanks for reminding us that there is joy in the journey!
January 19, 2021 at 10:29 am
Linda KulpTrout
Great advice!
January 19, 2021 at 10:29 am
marynadoughty
What an exciting opportunity, Katie! Thanks for sharing with us about stepping outside our comfort zones. 🙂
-Maryna Doughty
January 19, 2021 at 10:30 am
David McMullin
Thank you, Katey for that little bite of inspiration.
January 19, 2021 at 10:32 am
Safa Suleiman
Yes! What a great story! Such great advice! I wish you well, Katie!
January 19, 2021 at 11:29 am
Katie Frawley
Thank you, Safe! Best wishes to you on your writing journey!
January 19, 2021 at 10:34 am
Bhandi
Encouraging story, thank you for sharing!!
January 19, 2021 at 10:35 am
katiemillsgiorgio
So fun…thanks for sharing!
January 19, 2021 at 10:36 am
Meg
What a wonderful adventure – it’s great to be open to new writing opportunities!
January 19, 2021 at 10:36 am
kswemba
I love this, Katie. And congrats on being a guest blogger! I’m feeling inspired to try something new, but may actually stay in comfy pants while doing it 😉
January 19, 2021 at 10:36 am
susaninez0905
That is such great advice. Comfort zones are meant to be explored. Thanks for the words of wisdom.
January 19, 2021 at 10:37 am
Dara Henry
Great read! How exciting for you! It’s so important to get out of your comfort zone. Definitely not always comfortable to wear the “big girl pants” or do the work…but as you said, growth always comes from it. Thank you for the reminder.
January 19, 2021 at 10:39 am
amckelle
Thank you for this post! Getting out of our comfort zone is intimidating for sure, but you are right, that is a great place for inspiring growth.
January 19, 2021 at 10:39 am
Gail Aherne
Katey, congratulations on your debut, and best of luck on the animation pitches! Thanks for a great post. 2021 seems like the perfect time to break out of the writing comfort zone.😊
January 19, 2021 at 10:40 am
nrompella
Wow, what an opportunity! Your new book looks super cute.
January 19, 2021 at 10:40 am
rozanark
Very important, thanks for this. Growth starts outside our comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 10:41 am
Darcee A. Freier
I’ve knit pants on today. Perfect attire to flex those writing muscles in new directions.
January 19, 2021 at 10:43 am
Penny Merritt
I’ve got the wear comfortable pants part down! Now I need to work on moving out of my comfort zone. Thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 10:44 am
Jill Friestad-Tate
Some of the best writing comes from areas outside your own comfort zone. Thanks for the reminder and good luck with the animation scripts!
January 19, 2021 at 11:28 am
Katie Frawley
Thanks, Jill! Best of luck to you getting uncomfortable!
January 19, 2021 at 10:45 am
Michele Ziemke
The more I push outside my comfortable sweat pants, the more I grow as a writer! Thanks for the reminder! It gives me courage to keep trying at that thing I’ve been avoiding.
January 19, 2021 at 10:45 am
Tracy Hora
Great post and good luck with your opportunity! Can’t wait to read your new book, too.
January 19, 2021 at 10:46 am
Debi Novotny
Great advice, thank you! Stretching outside my comfort zone is scary and exhilarating at the same time! Congrats on your debut picture book!
January 19, 2021 at 10:47 am
Susan Jobsky
Comfort zones, while safe places for us to hang out and feel free to be ourselves, often limit our ability to see our strengths. My comfort zone is anonymity. I will have to leave it behind and stretch my wings if I am ever to achieve my life long goal. See you on the other side of, My Comfort Zone.
January 19, 2021 at 10:47 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
So cool! Always say yes! Fingers crossed for you Katie!
January 19, 2021 at 10:50 am
Christina Shawn
This has been a year of leggings for me. Thank you for the inspiration to try on some different styles.
January 19, 2021 at 10:51 am
Susan Wroble
What a great reminder for all of us to be willing to say yes, even when it means stepping far, FAR outside our comfort zone! Thanks.
January 19, 2021 at 10:54 am
dodiebird
Jump in and get wet, the best way to find your place and you are adventuresome. Thanks for the post.
January 19, 2021 at 10:55 am
Janice Woods
What a great reminder! Thanks for sharing and good luck!
January 19, 2021 at 10:57 am
Susan Eyerman
Great advice. Thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 10:57 am
Caren
Keeping my fingers crossed for you too!
January 19, 2021 at 10:58 am
kimpfenn
Really great advice, Katey, and very inspirational. And thanks for tip to wear
comfy clothes while stepping out of our comfort zones. All the best on the writer’s lab movie pitches and with your book launch!
January 19, 2021 at 10:59 am
Linda Schueler
I’ve already got my comfortable pants on…
January 19, 2021 at 11:26 am
Katie Frawley
The battle is already half won! Hahaha!
January 19, 2021 at 11:03 am
Lydia Lukidis
Agreed- you need to leave your comfort zone to get to the gold….
January 19, 2021 at 11:03 am
Gregory E Bray
Great post. Thanks, Katie.
January 19, 2021 at 11:06 am
Judie
That was a motivating post and a reminder to get dressed today. Thanks!
January 19, 2021 at 11:06 am
kristindudish
Such a fun and exciting opportunity – I’m so glad you said yes!! (I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you too!)
January 19, 2021 at 11:08 am
Anita Banks
Congratulations!
January 19, 2021 at 11:09 am
Jennifer Rathe
Thanks for the advice, I will continue to write all the different ideas! See where it takes me!
January 19, 2021 at 11:09 am
Armineh Manookian
Traveling uncharted roads can feel scary but that’s how we’ll grow as writers. Thanks for the encouragement, Katie!
January 19, 2021 at 11:11 am
MaryLee Flannigan
Wonderful advice! It’s always good to get uncomfortable and push yourself – it takes you to a new place and makes you a stronger person, regardless of the outcome.
January 19, 2021 at 11:24 am
Katie Frawley
Absolutely, MaryLee!
January 19, 2021 at 11:12 am
Melissa Stoller
Thanks for a great post, Katie! I look forward to reading your debut and good luck with all your pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 11:13 am
Aimee Haburjak
Love the idea of getting out of our comfort zone…I’ve been feeling that lately, so now I’m game. Also, love your ‘LairaBnB’!
January 19, 2021 at 11:13 am
Cheryl Johnson
Absolutely love the comfy pants analogy! Good luck with the pitches.
January 19, 2021 at 11:16 am
seschipper
Loved this post Katie! If we think writing itself can be difficult…stepping out of our comfort zone can be a real challenge! Time to put on those big girl pants 🙂 Congratulations … new book and new adventure!!
January 19, 2021 at 11:23 am
Katie Frawley
Yes! May we all find new books and new adventures outside our comfort zones!
January 19, 2021 at 4:20 pm
seschipper
🙂
January 19, 2021 at 11:16 am
chaunceyelephant
Love your sense of fun. Best wishes on the animation stories!
January 19, 2021 at 11:16 am
Jennifer Hart
Thanks for sharing your story! Good luck with the pitches. 🤞
January 19, 2021 at 11:19 am
bevbaird
Congrats on that amazing opportunity. Love the idea of being comfortable to explore uncomfortable ideas. Thanks for the inspiring words.
January 19, 2021 at 11:19 am
martyfindley
I love this idea. I have only written fiction PB manuscripts so far. This year I plan to try nonfiction and even take a drawing class. Both are outside my comfort zone! Time to dig out the big girl pants!
January 19, 2021 at 11:20 am
BettyAnn VanDeventer
LOVE
January 19, 2021 at 11:20 am
Sarah Tobias
My brain: I don’t want to. It scares me.
Me: You can do anything if you try and you already have loads of ideas that are outside your comfort zone. Get to work.
January 19, 2021 at 11:22 am
Katie Frawley
Yes, Sarah! Show that brain who’s boss!
January 19, 2021 at 11:23 am
Kirsti Call
ooooh I LOVE this post! Thanks Katey!
January 19, 2021 at 11:24 am
Katie Frawley
Thanks, Kirsti!
January 19, 2021 at 11:23 am
Laurie Knowlton
Going to give it a try. Thanks for the challenge.
January 19, 2021 at 11:24 am
JC
Thanks for the advice!
January 19, 2021 at 11:26 am
yvonne pearson
My stretch would be writing humor. I can’t even imagine it.
January 19, 2021 at 11:39 am
Katie Frawley
What a great area to stretch into! Rather than thinking about writing a whole manuscript that’s humorous, start small. How about a humorous premise? What are two things that absolutely don’t go together that might make you laugh? A bee allergic to pollen? A moose who can’t fit his antlers into his school bus? A little boy with a giant collection of different kinds of animal poo? Just pick a silly starting point and see where it takes you! Good luck, and HAVE FUN!!!
January 19, 2021 at 11:27 am
Cedar Pruitt
I’m all about the stretch in every corner of my life. Fun post! Thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 11:28 am
Corey Schwartz
Wow, good for you!
January 19, 2021 at 11:28 am
annettepimentel
Best of luck on your new ventures!
January 19, 2021 at 11:33 am
Annie War
It sounds like such an interesting and challenging experience.
January 19, 2021 at 11:41 am
Katie Frawley
SUCH an interesting challenge. That was some of the hardest writing work I’d done in a long time. Here’s hoping more opportunities come from it. But if not, I’m still glad I pushed myself!
Good luck to you outside your comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 11:33 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Katey, for showing us how you successfully thought outside the box.
January 19, 2021 at 11:35 am
Bethanny Parker
Maybe I’m wearing the wrong pants today. Gotta change things up!
January 19, 2021 at 11:35 am
curryelizabeth
Great post, Katie and thanks for the reminder to push ourselves. Crossing fingers for your opportunity too!
January 19, 2021 at 11:36 am
Emily R. Keener
Thank you for the inspiration, Katie!
January 19, 2021 at 11:42 am
Sue Heavenrich
I love my comfort zone: sweatpants, mac’n’cheese, hot milk with coffee… BUT YES! I agree – let’s push out of the comfort zone now & then. Or at least climb to the roof and look at things from a different perspective.
January 19, 2021 at 5:46 pm
Katie Frawley
Oooooh. Now I want mac n’ cheese!
January 19, 2021 at 11:44 am
Teresa Daffern
It’s so important to remember that it is okay to work outside your comfort zone. Thank you Katie, and best wishes for the new path you are on. Also, I look forward to reading your book, Tabitha and Fritz Trade Places.
January 19, 2021 at 11:45 am
Valerie Bolling
I loved your post, Katie! How wonderful that you’ve stepped out of your comfort zone, while wearing a variety of comfy pants. I, too, am writing in genres that I hadn’t before. In the fall I wrote an early reader series and am currently writing a nonfiction bio. Flexing different brain muscles is good.
January 19, 2021 at 11:45 am
Paisley Schade
New genres are tough, but satisfying to try. Thanks for the reminder.
January 19, 2021 at 11:50 am
Jessica Swaim
Katey, your first sentence had me laughing! I’ve gotten way too comfy in my fleece-lined CuddlDuds and look forward to slipping into maybe a wild paisley print as early as next week. Thanks for giving me just what I needed and good luck with those pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 11:51 am
Claire A. B. Freeland
Leaving one’s comfort zone also means being willing to fail. So here’s to lots of failure. Woohoo!
January 19, 2021 at 11:51 am
andynarwhal
Definitely good adive! Just wrote my first non-funny PB and it was a great learning experience, and my second book to go on submission was NF. Also not my comfort zone. Why use facts when you can just make stuff up!
January 19, 2021 at 11:52 am
suumac
Deb – thanks for your fun advice on being courageous! It STRUCK a cord. Published my first PB story in 2020 and am currently doing a deep dive into narrative NF – definitely needed your timely reminder to be brave(and comfortable in the process) Congrats on your very exciting new venture!
January 19, 2021 at 11:53 am
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thank you for your push to move out of my comfort zone. Not sure I’m ready for the big girl pants with zippers yet.
January 19, 2021 at 11:56 am
Debra Katz
Good suggestion. It is really hard for me to step away from the story structures I am comfortable with, but I may give it a try.
January 19, 2021 at 11:56 am
Jessica Fries-Gaither
This is so true! Great things don’t often (or ever?) come from comfort zones! But I’m keeping my leggings!
January 19, 2021 at 11:58 am
Lori Dubbin
Great post and fun to read. Good luck with your new venture and new picture book! Putting on stretch pants today.
January 19, 2021 at 12:05 pm
Arlene Schenker
Thanks for the advice, Katie. We always need reminders about our comfy comfy zone. Tabitha and Fritz looks like lots of laughs and perfectly delightful. Can’t wait to read it. Good luck!
January 19, 2021 at 12:17 pm
Katie Frawley
Thanks, Arlene! Tabitha and Fritz travel outside their comfort zones and halfway around the world. The least we can do is push our writing boundaries!
Good luck on your writing journey!
January 19, 2021 at 12:06 pm
Genevieve Gorback
I loooooved the metaphor of writing as comfy pants!!!!
January 19, 2021 at 12:07 pm
Daryl Gottier
Thanks for the reminder that growth isn’t always comfortable. Time to try on some new formats for size!
January 19, 2021 at 12:07 pm
Teresa Rodrigues
How exciting, Katey! Thanks for the advice and good luck! 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 12:10 pm
sareenmclay
Think I might have to put on my ‘be brave pants’ for this! Thanks for the encouragement and best of luck with your project – it sounds very exciting!
January 19, 2021 at 12:18 pm
Katie Frawley
“Be Brave Pants” sound like the perfect pants for this occasion!
January 19, 2021 at 12:10 pm
Suzanne Lewis
Thanks for the reminder that open road can take us to wonderful expansion and unexpected destinations! Great post Katey!
January 19, 2021 at 12:13 pm
Brenda Flowers
We often grow the most through our challenging times. Exploring something new, out of my comfort zone… (Yes!)
Thank you, Katie, for inspiring me to take this challenge and grow in the process.
January 19, 2021 at 12:13 pm
Kassy Keppol
Thank you
January 19, 2021 at 12:14 pm
Carole Calladine
Write outside your comfort zone in comfortable pants. Expand your thinking. thanks for sharing your journey. Since you left us with a cliffhanger, please update us as you journey forward.
January 19, 2021 at 12:15 pm
Katie Frawley
Whenever I have news I can share, you can be sure I will SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS!!!
Good luck outside your comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 12:14 pm
Candace Spizzirri
Loved your post, Katie! I’m going to push myself to get outside my comfort zone! ❤️
January 19, 2021 at 12:22 pm
Stephanie Gibeault
That sounds like such an amazing opportunity, Katie! I hope your animation pitches take you to new and exciting places (where you can wear comfortable pants)!
January 19, 2021 at 12:24 pm
Sara Trofa
Thanks, Katey! I can’t wait to read your picture book : ) Best of luck with the animation lab!
January 19, 2021 at 12:27 pm
marty
Katey, love the sound of your book. After reading your post, I can see humor is indeed your forte! Loved it!
Good luck with those pitches. Agreed, it easy to get stuck in our comfortable ruts and not explore new territory. Thanks for the encouragement to push ourselves and give those more difficult things a try.
January 19, 2021 at 12:28 pm
Cathy Ogren
Getting out of your comfort zone is not always a pleasant place to be, but it can be rewarding! Thanks for the good advice, Katie!
January 19, 2021 at 12:28 pm
Jen B
Love this. When I get in a jam, or feel uncreative, I start with a writing prompt, and write adult fiction (I don’t currently plan to write a novel or dig into that genre, but something about writing in an entirely different style always helps me jump back to the picture book page with a fresh focus.
January 19, 2021 at 12:30 pm
Rita
Thanks for the reminder to push beyond your own perceived limitations. Anything is possible, but only if you try. As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “You must do the things you think you cannot do.”
January 19, 2021 at 12:30 pm
Julia Lyon
I’m trying to do a little nonfiction, a little lyrical PB, a little funny PB …. well, I feel like I’m still trying to figure out my comfort zone. Good advice! And kudos to you for getting it done with five small people!
January 19, 2021 at 12:30 pm
annette schottenfeld
Hats off to you for going outside your comfort zone. It can be scary, but it sounds like you’re already a winner for it! Congratulations on your upcoming book! 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 12:34 pm
writersideup
Katie, I’m ALL for comfortable pants 😀 And GOOD LUCK with your pitches! I actually took a stab at it when a contest came up for “reality TV” (which I am NOT a fan of) with a studio in Florida and I actually made it “up the ladder” a bit, and they loved it except—they wanted competition. I didn’t and still don’t, but it was encouraging. It’s definitely a different world, but creative none the less 😀 Great post!
January 19, 2021 at 12:36 pm
writersideup
I meant “Katey”! 😉
January 19, 2021 at 12:38 pm
Nanna
Katie, thanks for nudging me out of my comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 12:40 pm
Jessica Potts
Good luck! You’ll never know where this journey will take you!
January 19, 2021 at 12:40 pm
claudia sloan
Congratulations on your PB debut!!! …and many thanks for sharing your story.
January 19, 2021 at 12:40 pm
Cindy
A great reminder to do something uncomfortable! I admire your confidence in pitching (and I’m a little envious.)
January 19, 2021 at 12:41 pm
BARBARA SENENMAN
Writing out of the comfort zone is scary and fascinating at the same time. That’s when I feel I’m two personalities. The writing me is doubting I could pull it off. Then there’s the me that’s finding all the information so fascinating, I’m not thinking about how do I go about writing it.
January 19, 2021 at 12:42 pm
Janet Smart
Sounds like a good idea. I surprise myself and do that now and then.Thanks for the reminder.
January 19, 2021 at 12:42 pm
jenabenton
Lol! Pants are a great analogy. And what a great reminder to get out of our comfort zone.
January 19, 2021 at 12:44 pm
Alicia Shawn Gagnon
Loved seeing your Brain and Voice narrative. Thanks for letting us inside your head. Peace, Alicia
January 19, 2021 at 12:44 pm
Kathryn Cunningham
Awesome advice, thanks a million! And good luck with your new adventure!
January 19, 2021 at 12:45 pm
Deborah Williams
Great post! I hope my comfort zone expands to include other styles, unlike my comfort clothes which seem to be mysteriously shrinking.
January 19, 2021 at 3:09 pm
Katie Frawley
Hahahahaha!
January 19, 2021 at 12:46 pm
Hank Dallago
“Getting out of your comfort zone” is easy to say but hard to do it. Thanks for giving me a kick in the pants and off the couch to get out of my comfort zone made only worse by the events of 2020. I’m putting my big boy pants on!
January 19, 2021 at 12:49 pm
Catherine
Good luck with your animation pitches! Over Christmas I left my picture book writing comfort zone and wrote a chapter book – it actually wasn’t quite as scary as I thought it would be!
January 19, 2021 at 3:10 pm
Katie Frawley
Bravo, Catherine! I’d like to give CB a try, myself!
January 19, 2021 at 12:50 pm
Rebecca
Ah, the magical things that can happen when we allow ourselves to be uncomfortable!
January 19, 2021 at 12:50 pm
danielledufayet
Love this post -always good to challenge our creative muscle! Congrats!
January 19, 2021 at 12:52 pm
Carlie Cornell
Nice story. Good advice.
January 19, 2021 at 12:53 pm
NC Karuzis
Best of luck on your animation pitches. Can’t wait to hear more.
January 19, 2021 at 12:53 pm
Rebecca Arent-Draper
Katie, thank you!
I have to admit that I secretly wear my pajama bottoms to ZOOM meetings! (They are like my “security blanket” as I venture outside my comfort zone via ZOOM!
January 19, 2021 at 5:47 pm
Katie Frawley
You’re not the only one, Rebeca!
January 19, 2021 at 12:56 pm
andreesantini
It is so much easier to stay in those comfy, tranquil places; but when we do, we might stop reaching and growing. Great post, thanks, I’m out of my comfy zone.
January 19, 2021 at 1:00 pm
bonzerb
Good luck with the pitches and thanks for the important advice!
January 19, 2021 at 1:01 pm
matthewlasley
Congrats on the opportunity and stepping out of your comfort zone.
Its funny that I just wrote about how writing a picture book does not mean you are just a picture book writer and that you need to allow yourself to branch out.
January 19, 2021 at 1:01 pm
Elizabeth Saba
Thanks Katie! Love this inspiration and taking chances.
January 19, 2021 at 1:01 pm
JEN Garrett
So THAT’s why Tara wears pjs to her author visits! 😉
Here I go outside my comfort zone on a quest to write something great!
January 19, 2021 at 1:02 pm
Kari (🚗+E) Lavelle (@KariALavelle)
Katie, this is fantastic! Perhaps I should custom make leggings that say “get uncomfortable!”
January 19, 2021 at 1:03 pm
Judy Sobanski
It’s important to try to go beyond our comfort zones so that we can grow as writers. Best of luck with the writer’s lab. I hope they love your work!
January 19, 2021 at 1:04 pm
Marlena Leach
I am working on a manuscript outside my comfort zone. My brain keeps sliding into humor when I am trying to write lyrical. But, I am learning to train my brain. Good luck with your animation. I did some storyboards in college for animating my script. It was so satisfying to see my characters talk and move to my script. Best of luck to you.
January 19, 2021 at 1:07 pm
kskeesling
Hi Katie,
I loved the inner brain dialogue! This post has pushed me to dip my feet into rhyme. Inner Brain: ahhhhhh!
Good luck with the screenplays and book launch!
January 19, 2021 at 1:07 pm
Gabi Snyder
Thanks for this sage advice, Katey. It makes sense that the surest way to grow as a writer is to stretch yourself out of your comfort zone. Fingers crossed regarding the animation pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 1:09 pm
Christine Van Zandt, author of A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERPANTS
Parallel-structure story, here I come! Haven’t done it before, but why not try?
January 19, 2021 at 1:10 pm
Angie
Love it! LairBnB! LOL. Congrats and best wishes on your big girl pants opportunity!
January 19, 2021 at 1:12 pm
kmajor2013
I enjoyed your post, Katie! Experimenting with things outside of your comfort zone is something that I have gravitated towards. Good luck with this awesome opportunity in children’s animation and with TABITHA and FRITZ TRADE PLACES publication!
January 19, 2021 at 1:18 pm
Angela Verges
Wonderful post. Ok, I’m going to get outof my stretchy clothes and push past my comfort zone. lol. Thanks for the encouragement.
January 19, 2021 at 1:18 pm
Michelle S. Kennedy (@MichelleSKenned)
Hi Katie- Thank you for the reminder to stretch outside of our comfort zones. I agree!
January 19, 2021 at 1:19 pm
Jan Milusich
I’m going to try to step outside my writing comfort space but in comfortable pjs.
January 19, 2021 at 1:20 pm
marshaelyn
Katey…bravo for stepping up outside your comfort zone. I can relate to the “crying.” I find your honesty refreshing, your sense of humor delightful. Sending you extra energy and inspiration for your new venture…
January 19, 2021 at 1:26 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
Thank you for this advise to write outside of our comfort zone and to “write down ANY idea that calls to you, whether it feels familiar or not.”
January 19, 2021 at 1:34 pm
aidantalkin
That’s all tall order… stepping into my uncomfort zone! But that’s what I’m here for. Fingers crossed.
January 19, 2021 at 1:34 pm
Laurie Carmody
YES! Three cheers for comfortable pants in uncomfortable, new situations
January 19, 2021 at 1:34 pm
Lynn Becker
Very interesting–advice taken, and LairBandB is really funny!
January 19, 2021 at 1:36 pm
Laura De La Cruz
Yay, Katey! Thanks for the great post. I’m wearing my stretchy pants and I ready to go!
January 19, 2021 at 1:37 pm
bgonsar
Love working a different part of your brain when trying something new. Thanks for sharing Katie!
January 19, 2021 at 1:38 pm
Charlotte Offsay
Your upcoming debut sounds hilarious! Love the concept!
January 19, 2021 at 1:39 pm
Lynn Baldwin
It is so important to try new things. Thanks for sharing, Katie.
January 19, 2021 at 1:41 pm
Linda Sakai
Heading out of my comfort zone right now! Thank you.
January 19, 2021 at 1:44 pm
Joni Hay Patras
Hi Katie, Good luck with your series pitches! Your picture book reminds me of one of my favorite movies– THE HOLIDAY.
January 19, 2021 at 5:45 pm
Katie Frawley
Yes, someone recommended that to me after I wrote this book. It’s ADORABLE!
January 19, 2021 at 1:45 pm
rhumba20
Getting out of our comfort zone is so important in so many ways and for so many reasons. Thank you for the reminder Katie!
January 19, 2021 at 1:46 pm
Chelle Martin
Good luck with your debut. Thanks for your funny post. Can’t wait to read the book. Illustrations are adorable too.
January 19, 2021 at 1:47 pm
Yehudit Sarah
Katie, I am so grateful you said you had to push yourself sometimes. I can relate to that. Thanks for suggesting to try something different. That’s great advice. Good luck!
January 19, 2021 at 1:47 pm
authordebradaugherty
Congratulations, Katie, and your screen play opportunity. I hope you receive good news soon. Thanks for reminding us it’s okay to leave our comfort zone to try something new.
January 19, 2021 at 1:47 pm
marsue77
Wow. What great post-just got out of my pull up pants and into my jeans with a skipper (still fits-hooray). I have been avoiding a true experience story but after reading this- time to tackle it. Congrats on all the awesome stuff you have going on.
January 19, 2021 at 3:11 pm
Katie Frawley
That’s amazing, Marci! I’m so glad you’re feeling inspired to move forward with your idea. Bravo!
January 19, 2021 at 1:47 pm
Maria Altizer
Thanks for the post. Its always a good reminder to step out of our comfort zones. Now its time to do it!
January 19, 2021 at 1:51 pm
Bonnie Kelso
Hi Katie! That writers’ lab sounds like an amazing challenge. I hope one of your ideas gets picked. Thanks for the sage advice.
January 19, 2021 at 1:54 pm
sherry fellores
Such a great post! I love my comfy pants but I know it’s necessary to put on this less comfy one sometimes!
January 19, 2021 at 1:56 pm
nataliecohn0258
Thank you Katie for the inspiration to wear different pants. I’m wearing my comfortable pants right now. I love wearing comfortable pants. Can’t wait to try something different in my ideas and push myself.
January 19, 2021 at 1:57 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Wishing you all the best with your pitches, Katie. I’ve experimented a bit with getting out of my comfort zone and need to do it more. Thanks for the reminder.
January 19, 2021 at 1:59 pm
Katie Schwartz
Wow, just completing the pitches and saying ‘yes’ when you were asked is awesome! I love how you included both your responses and your ‘inner voice’, LOL, too funny! Good luck with your break into the movies! AND – go Gators!! I now live in CO, but lived in FL- Cocoa Beach and Jacksonville Beach for most of my life, and I get back there at least yearly to visit friends and family.
January 19, 2021 at 2:00 pm
Katie Schwartz
Oh – second comment – love the wordplay, Lairbnb! Wish I’d thought of it, we actually run one – just a plain old AIRBNB here in our house.
January 19, 2021 at 2:02 pm
Aimee Satterlee
Trying something new will certainly stretch those writing muscles! Thanks for the inspiration, Katie!
January 19, 2021 at 2:02 pm
Jenny Morales
Wow! What a cool journey story. Thank you for the reminder that we owe it to ourselves to get uncomfortable. It’s the only way to grow, right? Good luck with the screenplays! Oh, and your picture book sounds adorable. I can’t wait to read it.
January 19, 2021 at 2:05 pm
Pat Trattles
Good for you to take the leap of faith and not listen to your brain and pitch outside your comfort zone. Good luck!
January 19, 2021 at 2:09 pm
Renee Choy
I love this post! Thank you so much for sharing. Omg LairBnB! Hahaha I can’t wait to read your new book and good luck with the pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 2:09 pm
Shawna J. C. Tenney
I definitely write in my comfort zone. Thanks for the great challenge!
January 19, 2021 at 2:16 pm
Lori Himmel
I can’t wait to hear what comes of your animation pitches. And congratulations on your debut! Looks wonderful and can’t wait to read it!
January 19, 2021 at 2:17 pm
danielle hammelef
I’ve been challenged in the past to get out of my comfort zone and even though my brain told me I was crazy, I pursued and completed my projects anyway and I felt so rewarded and learned so much.
January 19, 2021 at 2:19 pm
dedra davis
I’m sitting in my comfortable picture book pants writing this and telling you I loved this post!
January 19, 2021 at 2:19 pm
Sheri Radovich
I love your enthusiasm but jumping outside my comfort zone is writing anything for children that will be published and liked. I wrote for fun and then I tried sending it to agents and editors. Still looking for the open door and honing that craft. Enjoy your success.
January 19, 2021 at 2:19 pm
Lori Himmel
Looking forward to reading your debut book! Congratulations! I’m pushing myself to write an MG in verse. It’s so fun! And definitely out of my comfort zone.
January 19, 2021 at 2:21 pm
Rebekah Lowell
Aaahhh that sounds like so much (scary) fun!
Thanks for the reminder to get out of our comfort zones. I very much write soft, lyrical picture books and have wanted to try being funny. Might as well try, right? Can’t hurt anything but some paper and ink. Hope the animation series works out for you!
January 19, 2021 at 3:08 pm
Katie Frawley
Yes! Go jump into humor! I love it!
January 19, 2021 at 2:23 pm
jenfierjasinski
Congratulations on seizing the opportunity and thanks for the inspiration! Looking forward to Tabitha & Fritz.
January 19, 2021 at 2:23 pm
Roberta Gibson
What an awesome opportunity. I’m part of a writing group that encourages experimentation, but nothing like animation screenplays. Wishing you the best of luck.
January 19, 2021 at 2:27 pm
Liz Rice
True – stepping out of our comfort zones leads to possibilities we never thought of. Good luck and fingers crossed about those pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 2:30 pm
authoraileenstewart
Hoping it all works out for you, Ms. Katie :0)
January 19, 2021 at 2:32 pm
Amy H
wow–what a fun journey! Good luck!
January 19, 2021 at 2:33 pm
Ann Harrell
Enjoyed this and best of luck with your new venture. Now that’s a way to get the juices flowing!
January 19, 2021 at 2:34 pm
katiefischerwrites
Hope your animation pitches go well!
January 19, 2021 at 2:37 pm
Sarah Meade
What an intriguing offer, Katie! I’m glad you said yes and hope you get amazing news about it soon. Looking forward to reading your book and already preordered it. Thanks for this inspiring post!
January 19, 2021 at 2:38 pm
mariearden
Thanks for the advice to write out of one’s comfort zone. It supports the new humorous voices popping up in my head and giving me a break from writing the serious stuff.
January 19, 2021 at 2:39 pm
Jennifer Nealy
I kinda enjoyed being out of my comfort zone.
January 19, 2021 at 2:40 pm
muskoshe
This was so good to read. During StoryStorm 2021 I have come up with some ideas that would be NF and every time I think about actually developing any of them into PB, I immediately go back to what I know. Now I see it is time for the big girl pants and step out of my comfort zone. Thanks
January 19, 2021 at 2:43 pm
Jennifer
Thank you for acknowledging the importance of comfortable pants — I feel the same way! Thanks also for the inspiration. I can’t wait to read about LairBnB — hilarious idea. 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 2:44 pm
Joanne Roberts
Sounds like fun—and work—and fun! I love your analogy about the pants…not that I EVER wear pajama pants past noon. Thanks.
January 19, 2021 at 3:07 pm
Katie Frawley
No never. I’m definitely not wearing pajama pants at this very moment. Definitely not.
January 19, 2021 at 2:45 pm
kathychalas
Today I am determined to conjure up something outside of my comfort zone. Thanks for the inspiration and encouragement!!
January 19, 2021 at 2:47 pm
rgstones
Thanks for the inspiring post. Can’t wait to read your new PB.
January 19, 2021 at 2:50 pm
kathydoherty1
Thanks, Katie! I’m right there with you in the comfy pants.
January 19, 2021 at 2:54 pm
chardixon47
Congratulations Katie! Loved this post to move on out of the comfort zone. Gonna go get those big girl panties 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 2:57 pm
kirstenbockblog
I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you. Sounds exciting!
January 19, 2021 at 2:58 pm
Catherine Brewer
Thank you Katie, I just came up with idea after reading this fun article.
January 19, 2021 at 3:06 pm
Katie Frawley
That’s wonderful! I’m so glad!
January 19, 2021 at 3:00 pm
jenlinville2021
Good luck breaking into animation! What a fun opportunity!
January 19, 2021 at 3:06 pm
Sheri Dillard
Ooh, sounds exciting! Good luck and thanks for the great post!
January 19, 2021 at 3:08 pm
Lauren Barbieri
Thank you for the post. It is so good to stretch out of that comfort zone! Looking forward to your upcoming book—congratulations!
January 19, 2021 at 3:10 pm
Eileen Mayo
What an exciting and nerve-wracking experience!! Thanks for the inspiration and for sharing your story!
January 19, 2021 at 3:11 pm
Dawn M.
Great advice!
January 19, 2021 at 3:11 pm
Kaye Wright
Yes, I need to sail out into uncharted waters. Thank you for the reminder!
January 19, 2021 at 3:15 pm
heathercmorris
Cool! Writing children’s animation screenplays?! Yes to grabbing every opportunity! Thanks for the reminder to stretch and learn.
January 19, 2021 at 3:17 pm
babybluesnowflake
That was a very useful reminder, Katie, thank you. It makes so much sense to mix things up a little to keep our brains flexed and our stories fresh.
January 19, 2021 at 3:19 pm
marty
Tabitha and Fritz Trade Places sounds hilarious! Congratulations on your picture book debut. Writing outside my comfort zone is a much needed reminder. It’s a great reminder, too, that even it doesn’t end up being acquired the writing has improved one’s craft. Thank you for sharing the dialogue between you and your friend in the movie business! What an opportunity! You had the courage to reach, in uncomfortable pants, no less.
Commendations to Tara for her efforts in bringing amazing people to Storystorm this January.
January 19, 2021 at 3:21 pm
Vera Lisa Smetzer
I love fun stories, the sillier the better! Yours looks wonderful! This Storystorm month has been all about trying on new ideas – for NF and F both. 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 3:23 pm
Lynn Alpert
I hope your journey outside your comfort zone works out!
January 19, 2021 at 3:27 pm
Cindy S
What great advice. And I appreciate the humor
January 19, 2021 at 3:30 pm
CindyC
THanks Katie. We need to be pushed out of our comfort zone…but not our yoga pants. 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 3:34 pm
JillDanaBooks
Yay Katie! So proud of you!
January 19, 2021 at 3:35 pm
Heather Stigall
Okay, Katie. Here I go…
January 19, 2021 at 3:35 pm
Robin Bailey
Thanks Katie! As I read your post I knew instantly what stretching myself would be…. non fiction. So, I’ve got some ideas already brewing that I am going to write down. Thanks for the nudge!
January 19, 2021 at 3:35 pm
Garnett Natasha
Good luck with the children’s animation pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 3:36 pm
Lisa Kingsford
Katie, your words are very encouraging. I often find myself standing at the edges of my comfort zone. I hope we cross paths somewhere out there in our ‘discomfort’ zones! Congratulations on your debut picture book!
January 19, 2021 at 3:37 pm
FrannyG
Yes, stretch myself, not my pants! Five children!! OMG
January 19, 2021 at 3:38 pm
writeknit
Getting uncomfortable while comfortable – great advice! Loved the post today, best of luck with your mind stretching new writing adventure.
January 19, 2021 at 3:43 pm
Linda Bozzo
I love that you took that challenge. On a whim, a children’s writer friend and I signed up for a writing for television class in NYC and talk about stepping out of our comfort zones! But we had so much fun and learned so much. I’ll never forget that experience.
January 19, 2021 at 3:44 pm
kathalsey
Good luck, Katie! I know how you feel with this: “It wasn’t easy. Most of it wasn’t fun. But I cranked it out. I flexed different parts of my brain… I almost cried a few times! ”
I’m feeling those feels with a new job in the writing biz, but it’s the tech that’s stretching me. Go get ’em!
January 19, 2021 at 3:44 pm
Penelope McNally
Getting out of our comfort zones is always good advice! That’s how we grow. I’m trying out some new genres myself; not so comfy yet, but definitely sparking creativity. Best of luck with your screenplays!
January 19, 2021 at 3:48 pm
Mary Ann Blair
Sounds like a fascinating experience!!
January 19, 2021 at 3:53 pm
Abby Wooldridge
What a cool story, Katie! Thanks for sharing. And congratulations on your debut–it sounds amazing! 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 3:58 pm
Susan Uhlig Ford
Yes!
January 19, 2021 at 4:01 pm
kiralee strong
Great advice ❤️ And what a wonder Opportunity. I hope the pants fit 😊
January 19, 2021 at 4:05 pm
Pamela Haskin
Thanks for the encouragement to get out of our comfort zones. A very cool story you have with the screen writing. Yay for you for saying yes to the challenge. Thanks for sharing with us today.
January 19, 2021 at 4:07 pm
paulaobering
Awesome story! Love how unexpected opportunities can stretch our creativity!
January 19, 2021 at 4:08 pm
Laurie Bouck
Wow, that must have been so exciting but scary at the same time! Definitely out of the comfort zone! Thanks for your great post and inspiring words.
January 19, 2021 at 4:09 pm
Hélène Sabourin
I totally agree. I think it would be worth the effort
January 19, 2021 at 4:10 pm
romontanaro
Thank you for this interview Tara. Very inspiring and appreciate the advice. I contacted Katie a year ago for a critique and that was completely out of my comfort zone. It was so rewarding and I’ll never forget her guidance. I’ve been learning so much since then and will keep trying the comfort zone thing — and the comfortable pants thing. Totally. I look forward to reading your book Katie. All the best!
January 19, 2021 at 4:11 pm
Shannon Fossett
Thank you for sharing! It’s a great reminder that stepping outside our comfort zone can be difficult but it can lead to great things!
January 19, 2021 at 4:11 pm
Jayne Wilson
Oh! Thank you ever so much for that! I’m a rhyme & today I wrote my first story. I would never have done that without your encouragement! I needed that! Medicine for my soul! Thank you so much for encouraging me to get into my courageous zone. Good luck with your screenplay! ❤️
January 19, 2021 at 4:14 pm
Tara Girvan
Wow! I love this. Great advice. It’s always good to get out of your comfort zone! Good luck with your animation pitches.
January 19, 2021 at 4:16 pm
Tonnye Fletcher
Yes to ALL the comfy pants references — my faves! I consider it a GREAT day when I can stay in my pajama pants all day! What an adventure you’ve had! It sounds stressful — and fun — and stressful . . . but you are right, those are the places we grow the most! Congrats on Tabitha and Fritz and on this new opportunity! My fingers are crossed for you, too! Good for you for going for it!
January 19, 2021 at 4:21 pm
Peggy Dobbs
It’s so easy to remain in our comfort zone. Thanks for the inspiration to step outside of it and challenge ourselves. Your book looks adorable! Congratulations!
January 19, 2021 at 4:24 pm
Carrie Tillotson
Thanks for the encouragement to get out of the comfort zone. Maybe I will try writing in a new place today and see what ideas spark. Good luck with your pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 4:25 pm
Dawn Young
💛I’d say you put on your big girl pants! LOL Thanks for sharing.💛
January 19, 2021 at 4:28 pm
streetlynn
Sounds like a great experience and good advice to stretch our writing muscles! Lynn Street
January 19, 2021 at 4:40 pm
Lisa Billa
Wow! Congrats on your debut and good luck with the leap into animation screenplays! My PB ideas are already all over the map, but I’m reaching out of my comfort zone to try some writing for older kids.
January 19, 2021 at 5:49 pm
Katie Frawley
Bravo, Lisa! Best of luck!
January 19, 2021 at 4:46 pm
lisakhan9
Great post Katie! So true to get out of your comfort zone. Very best wishes, can’t wait to hear more from you 👏
January 19, 2021 at 4:46 pm
Thelia Hutchinson
I am always way too comfortable. I need run out of my comfort. I have ideas, but scared. Need to refocus and imagine what good things come from being too comfortable.
January 19, 2021 at 4:48 pm
jilltatara
Now I want to write a picture book about pants. Thank you for this great post, Katie! Here’s to venturing outside the comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 4:49 pm
Amy Grover
Thank you! Your trading places picture book sounds really fun! LairBnB, haha!
January 19, 2021 at 4:49 pm
Lauren Hidalgo
What were the key differences in writing for movies or shows vs picture books?
January 19, 2021 at 4:52 pm
stacey miller
Thank you for this brilliant post. I definitely need to start writing out of my comfort zone. I hope I’m brave enough, wish me luck!!!
January 19, 2021 at 4:53 pm
Angela Ferraiola Calabrese
I bet those rowdy teenage students of yours got a kick out of you. You are a riot! Good luck with your debut book. I’ll be reading it in my most comfy sweatpants in your honor.
January 19, 2021 at 4:54 pm
Virginia Neil
Ahhh, Katie, now I know why biography ideas keep throwing themselves at me. I’m like Moses in the desert…pick someone else to do this hard thing my brain shouts. Perhaps you’ve persuaded it to consider otherwise. Thanks my friend. BTW…My copy of your Pb debut won’t come until May..I am assuming that means preorders were out the roof. Yay!
January 19, 2021 at 5:48 pm
Katie Frawley
Yes! Listen to your brain and write a bio! My pub date was pushed to June, but I’m glad you’ll be getting a copy in May. Today was actually supposed to be my book birthday!
January 19, 2021 at 5:03 pm
Gigi
Trying to get out of my comfort zone…there are so many awesome ideas out there already, it’s a bit scary.
January 19, 2021 at 5:16 pm
Mel H.
Storystorm in and of itself is me following your advice before I even read this post. However, I have mostly wearing comfy pants while so far, so I am going I am going to go squeeze into a more uncomfortable pair and see if I can stretch them out a bit. Thank you for the advice!
January 19, 2021 at 5:25 pm
Tara Cerven
Thank you for the motivation to step outside the comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 5:32 pm
Jill Lambert (@LJillLambert)
Thank you for the push to put on my big girl pants and try something new, Katie! Terrific post!
January 19, 2021 at 5:32 pm
DaNeil Olson
Exactly the message I needed today – thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 5:36 pm
Laura Clement
Comfortable pants for the win!
January 19, 2021 at 5:41 pm
Alice Fulgione
Thanks for your very fun post! Writing outside my comfort zone does sound a bit scary but I’ll certainly give it a shot.
January 19, 2021 at 5:45 pm
Katie Frawley
Good luck, Alice! I promise, it will be worth it!
January 19, 2021 at 5:44 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
Wowser! That’s a great opportunity! Good luck! And I hope you’ve changed back into those comfy pants—at least while you’re waiting to hear back….
January 19, 2021 at 5:44 pm
Dannielle Viera
Thanks for the advice, Katey!
January 19, 2021 at 5:47 pm
Marilyn Wolpin
So psyched that you started down this path in 2016 and are already published. Gives me hope. Also liked your Nolan Ryan allusion. Looking forward to reading your book. Thanks for the inspiration.
January 19, 2021 at 5:50 pm
Emily Chibwana
I LIVE in my comfy pants (or no pants, depending on the weather) and luckily I’m still new enough at writing that nothing is truly comfortable yet. I’m still in the “try everything on to see what feels right” stage, and I love it. ❤️
January 19, 2021 at 5:52 pm
Sara Weingartner (@SJWeingartner)
Good luck with the TV/movie pitches!! And thanks for the nudge.
January 19, 2021 at 5:58 pm
Alicia Z. Klepeis
Loved this post about getting out of your comfort zone. As a mainly nonfiction writer, I have been wanting to also do more fiction.
LairBnB — Brilliant!
January 19, 2021 at 5:59 pm
Tonya Grant
Love your advice! Thanks for the nudge to get out of my comfort zone. Good luck with your pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 6:03 pm
Janet Sheets
One of the questions this sparks for me is: How “easy” should writing be? Some PB writers say their best stories are the ones that practically write themselves. (I’ve never experienced that!) If we asked PB creators to identify their “best” work, would they choose something they really struggled over, or something where the process felt very natural? I’d love to know.
January 19, 2021 at 6:05 pm
Stephen S. Martin
My problem is the cats get into my comfort zone before me.
January 19, 2021 at 6:10 pm
mbhmaine
This really resonates with me–my blog is called “Nix the Comfort Zone!” Still, I think I’ve been slipping back in there bit by bit. No one warns you that the comfort zone has a gravitational force field! Thanks for the reminder to orbit a bit further out.
January 19, 2021 at 6:14 pm
Joyce Uglow
Changing places is a fabulous idea. I cannot wait to read this! Order placed!
January 19, 2021 at 6:15 pm
Mary Warth
Thanks Katie, for the push out of my comfort zone! Good luck!
January 19, 2021 at 6:17 pm
Sarah Hetu-Radny
Great post! Thank you! I’ll crank out something scary maybe!!!
January 19, 2021 at 6:24 pm
rindabeach
Here’s to being uncomfortable!
January 19, 2021 at 6:25 pm
Joyce
Congratulations, Katie! I hope your ideas become animations soon!
January 19, 2021 at 6:26 pm
Sherri
Picture books were outside my comfort zone initially, but today, it’s my passion. I love writing books for children.
January 19, 2021 at 6:30 pm
Pamela Brunskill
Oh, my goodness, yes! We need to get out of our comfort zones and take risks with our writing. Such great advice. Good luck on your animation pitches! Fingers crossed for you!
January 19, 2021 at 6:32 pm
Buffy Silverman
Good luck with your movie/tv pitches! And great advice to try something new.
January 19, 2021 at 6:33 pm
Stephanie Wildman
Wearing yoga pants as I write this post, but I love the advice. Congrats on your book and fingers crossed for your animation ideas. For me, writing PBs is out of my comfort zone which was in law review articles. 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 6:41 pm
writeremmcbride
Katey, your post was so helpful! I DO need to get out of my comfort zone and write the stories I want to write, the ones I am not sure I can write, and keep writing in genres that are not related (one hears mixed opinions on doing that)! Thank you for the vote of confidence, and CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU! Best of luck with your screenwriting experiences as well!
January 19, 2021 at 7:00 pm
Kimberly Hutmacher
Love the advice of pushing ourselves outside of our comfort zones. Best of luck with the writing lab opportunity!
January 19, 2021 at 7:00 pm
Cindy Boyll
Okay, I’ll put on my big girl pants in 2021. Thank you for the wise and funny words–consistently a magical combination.
January 19, 2021 at 7:02 pm
Aundra Tomlins
Opportunity is crazy like that… you always want to grab it but it can be so scary to do so. Good luck. And thanks for the reminder to push ourselves outside our comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 7:06 pm
Christine Pinto
Good idea to remind us all – get out of your comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 7:07 pm
ptnozell
What a wonderful opportunity! And what wonderful advice to think up ideas outside my comfort zone! Thanks so much, Katey!
January 19, 2021 at 7:10 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
I’m one that likes to stay in my comfort zone. So, Thanks for the inspiration to explore! Maybe if I wear my familiar,comfy pants, it’ll feel less scary.
January 19, 2021 at 7:23 pm
Michelle Kashinsky
Thanks, and agreed on those comfy pants!
January 19, 2021 at 7:27 pm
ruthwilson48
Refreshing advice! Thanks, Katie!
January 19, 2021 at 7:30 pm
andikate
Get out of your comfort zone is my mantra. Thanks for the validation!
January 19, 2021 at 7:32 pm
mona861
I need to flex all parts of my brain…thanks for reminding me!
January 19, 2021 at 7:34 pm
Elizabeth Duncan
Great advice about trying something new. Thanks.
January 19, 2021 at 7:35 pm
Marie
Wonderful advice to stretch yourself outside your comfort zone! It has been refreshing to try writing in a genre or style that I don’t normally write in.
January 19, 2021 at 7:39 pm
Jenny Boyd
What a sweet-sounding gig! Congrats on your picture-book debut, too. Such a cute idea.
January 19, 2021 at 7:39 pm
Diane O'Neill
Your books sound fantastic! Thanks for the reminder to step outside our comfort zones!
January 19, 2021 at 7:43 pm
Karin Larson
What an awesome opportunity. Congrats! I am a big fan of comfy pants! Thanks for the great post.
January 19, 2021 at 7:44 pm
58chilihed13
My favourite pants have at least eight pockets, and the stories of what has been carried in them are often a hoot! Inspired by comfort, thanks Katie!
January 19, 2021 at 7:53 pm
C.Mochowski
It’s a good reminder to go out of your comfort zone. In teaching when we push students it’s called comfort plus one. Your blog was a good gentle push.
January 19, 2021 at 7:56 pm
Rona Shirdan
Time to write outside of my comfort zone. Thanks for the ideas!
January 19, 2021 at 8:05 pm
claireflewis
Great post – I love trying out different writing styles!
January 19, 2021 at 8:07 pm
John McGranaghan
Thanks for the post, enjoyed your analogy to pants. I have been thinking about writing something out of my comfort zone so this just confirms it. Good luck with your screen play studio pitches
January 19, 2021 at 8:09 pm
Zoraida Rivera
I’ve tried fiction picture books and biographies. I’ve, also, tried middle grade novels. Now I want to try a non-fiction picture book on a science topic. Thanks for sharing.
January 19, 2021 at 8:10 pm
Diane Kress Hower
Thanks for the kick in the pants to get out of my comfort zone!
Congratulations on your new book!
January 19, 2021 at 8:25 pm
Christine M Irvin
Good advice!
January 19, 2021 at 8:31 pm
Kathy Mazurowski
Going outside my comfort zone is a challenge and I have done it, but will again!
January 19, 2021 at 8:35 pm
Deborah W. Trotter
Stepping out of one’s comfort zone in any context is tough to do, but I do understand there may be benefits! I try. 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 8:39 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Time to move beyond my comfort zone and challenge myself. Thank you, Katie.
January 19, 2021 at 8:39 pm
Manju Beth Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Hi Katie! Good luck with your 10 pitches!
January 19, 2021 at 8:45 pm
Michelle Losardo
Just this week, I wrote a MS draft in a genre I had never attempted before and was surprised at how easily it developed. There’s no harm in trying, just regret it not doing so!
Katie, thank you for the reminder to explore undiscovered treasures with a sense of adventure!
January 19, 2021 at 8:56 pm
Sharon Lillie
Great analogy, which I read while sitting in pajama pants. Ha!
January 19, 2021 at 8:56 pm
Lori Gibson
Love the idea of doing something other than what is comfortable! Thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 8:59 pm
Lori Gibson
Great idea about doing what isn’t comfortable. Thank You!
January 19, 2021 at 9:01 pm
Linda Hofke
That is so exciting, Katie. Good luck with your pitches.
TABITHA AND FRITZ TRADE PLACES sounds great. I also write mostly humor but am challenging myself to write something else this month.
Thanks for the inspiration.
January 19, 2021 at 9:06 pm
Laurel Santini
Thanks for the post!
January 19, 2021 at 9:08 pm
Tania
FABULOUS!
January 19, 2021 at 9:17 pm
roberta abussi
Thank you for this reminder…especially after this tough year. It is scary to jump into the unknown, but it is a challenge that should make us feel excited and energized at the same time!
January 19, 2021 at 9:22 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
KATIE: PHEW!!! I kept HOPING you weren’t going to say we need to change our comfort-zone pants for big-person pants! PHEW! THAT WAS A CLOSE ONE!!! It’s a GOOD thing that’s NOT a requirement for getting out of our comfort zone–EVEN IF our comfort zone IS our comfy pants!!! THANK YOU for the GREAT advice and the INSPIRATION to look outside the pants–er, box for ideas. I think we get too fixated on things we’re interested in, when there’s a WORLD OF ALL KINDS OF STORIES just waiting to be written out there! And part of the fun in writing something we don’t know much about is learning along with our readers. As we educate, we are being educated, TOO! I CAN’T WAIT to meet Tabitha and Fritz! CONGRATS! And FINGERS crossed for your animation writing, TOO!!!
January 19, 2021 at 9:24 pm
Alexis_Bookdragon
Great advice!
January 19, 2021 at 9:28 pm
EmmieRWerner
❤️❤️❤️
January 19, 2021 at 9:37 pm
Marci Whitehurst
Go outside the comfort zone! Yes!! Thank you, Katie! Congrats on your book & on trying something new—how exciting!
January 19, 2021 at 9:41 pm
Beth Elliott
Your personal story made the crossing the comfort zone advice resonate – good luck with the screen pitches and I look forward to your book – it sounds hilarious!
January 19, 2021 at 9:42 pm
tinefg
Wow Katie, major lesson in never saying “no”…kudos, and good luck How exciting! Thanks so much for sharing. I guess it’s time to pull up my big girl (not so comfortable) pants and take a walk outside my comfort zone… can I go without the belt to cancel out some of the discomfort?
January 19, 2021 at 9:45 pm
Jennifer Blanck
How exciting–good luck! Taking risks is important. Just the very fact of doing it has a pay-off, let alone if the outcome is successful. But I’m not giving up my comfortable pants. 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 9:48 pm
Sharon Coffey
Katie, change is difficult but I will try to come up with some non-fiction ideas, Fiction is my comfort zone. Here I go.
January 19, 2021 at 9:57 pm
Aly Kenna
Good luck with your pitches Katey and thank you for reminding us to get out of our comfort zones… and big girl pants are not supposed to be comfy 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 10:00 pm
YauMei Chiang
Thank you, Katie. Change is uncomfortable; if we survive, we will grow. Wishing you and me the best!
January 19, 2021 at 10:02 pm
paulabpuckett
Yes. Wearing comfy clothes relaxes my brain and encourages creativity. I’ll keep on doing THAT, even if I write things not are not so much in my comfort “zone.” Thanks!
January 19, 2021 at 10:08 pm
Dream Read Wonder
I’ave worked from home since 2018 and I think I’m overdoing the comfy clothes bit, but I don’t care at all.
January 19, 2021 at 10:11 pm
Jennifer Phillips
Wise words indeed. Thanks for the advice and good luck with the outcomes of the pitch lab!
January 19, 2021 at 10:21 pm
Brinton Culp
It is all about the pants. Thanks for a fun post and good luck to you!
January 19, 2021 at 10:22 pm
Sallye O'Rourke
we must push ourselves to grow! enjoyed this post.
January 19, 2021 at 10:31 pm
teacherwriteracker
That is an amazing opportunity! My idea for today is something I haven’t done before, but maybe a brief period of big girl pants can get it from idea to draft.
January 19, 2021 at 10:31 pm
Sheri Graubert
I love this! Thank you, so much, Katie! Your description of Tabitha and Fritz Trade Places made me laugh out loud. Brilliant stuff. Get outside of my comfort zone. YES!! Thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 10:37 pm
Kris H
Story storm is my visit outside my comfort zone!
January 19, 2021 at 10:40 pm
katieschon
Looks like an adorable book! Fingers crossed for your pitches…
January 19, 2021 at 10:47 pm
Melissa Warren
Good for your! It can be scary trying new things but it can be do valuable. I love your advice about writing out of your comfort zone. I think this is true to most things, trying new things, can only stretch you and help you grow.
January 19, 2021 at 10:47 pm
Marie Messinger
Thanks for the encouragement to be brave!!
January 19, 2021 at 10:55 pm
Sheila Alford
I loved hearing your story about stepping out of your comfort zone. I needed to hear it as I’m one to over analyze everything. I look forward to reading your debut.
January 19, 2021 at 11:32 pm
Maria Marshall
Great post Katie! Always say “yes” and be open for (or even go looking for) ways to stretch! I love the suggestion to stretch with the ideas. It’s “safer.” Thanks.
January 19, 2021 at 11:38 pm
Erika Suckow
Trying new ways to spark creativity lead all of us to our hobbies now! It is a great reminder that it is never to late to explore new things.
January 19, 2021 at 11:40 pm
doreenrobinson
Thanks for convincing me that I need to get out of my comfort zone. Good luck with the screen writing gig – that sounds amazing!
January 19, 2021 at 11:46 pm
Becky Ross Michael
Yes, it’s hard to get out of that comfort zone, especially these days!
January 19, 2021 at 11:50 pm
tinamcho
What a fun post! Congrats on your book. And wow, what an opportunity for screen writing!
January 19, 2021 at 11:56 pm
Kathiann Weatherbee (@WeatherbeeBooks)
Great post! Good luck with your screen pitches! Your book looks adorable!
January 20, 2021 at 12:01 am
Jose Cruz
I’ve always loved the fact that there are so many forms of creative writing. Since I began writing as a teen I could never be satisfied unless I had tried out every format. Song lyrics, stage plays, letters, essays, comic books… There was a sense of fun and discovery each time that I try to hang onto and remember as I try new things (or even retry old things) now as a jaded adult. I had the same reaction to your friend’s offer as you: “That sounds really tough! But damn what a cool challenge!” Thanks for the inspiring post.
January 20, 2021 at 12:05 am
Lisa Bratus
Thank you for the push out of the writing comfort zone! You reminded me that if it was easy everyone would do it! It inspired me to pick up the pen on a middle grade chapter book I started. I always thought I would write for the elementary level and an idea came to me and I went with it! Thank you for the push!
January 20, 2021 at 12:11 am
Mary Beth Rice
Thank you, Katie!
January 20, 2021 at 12:13 am
Megan M.
This was the EXACT thing I needed to read today! As others have said, I also needed a push.
January 20, 2021 at 12:22 am
Cathleen Collins
Love the humor in this post so I can only imagine the book is even better! Look forward to it!
January 20, 2021 at 12:22 am
Nichole Bowers
Hi Katie! Thank you for your thought provoking advice! And for backing my belief that it’s ok to wear comfortable pants while writing.
I admire your courage to step outside your comfort zone with such a can do attitude. I try to remind myself that even if I don’t succeed when stepping out of my comfort zone, I will still wake up tomorrow exactly who I am, but will have learned something critical. Your book TABITHA AND FRITZ TRADE PLACES sounds like a pleasure to write and a real pleasure to read.
Best of luck with your pitches!
January 20, 2021 at 12:31 am
Heather Rowley
Congrats and best wishes! Thanks for the great idea to get uncomfortable in writing!
January 20, 2021 at 12:48 am
Sharon E. Langley
This is the year to take chances…if it doesn’t work out, blame it on the pandemic.
January 20, 2021 at 1:05 am
Amanda
You have five kids! How do you find time to write?! (I have six and am struggling 😅) Coincidentally, one of them is named Tabitha and thinks she’s a cat, so we will definitely be checking out your new book. 😆
January 20, 2021 at 1:17 am
Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06)
I wrote a narrative nonfiction last year and a contest entry that was nothing like I’ve written. I’m hoping to get more out of my comfort zone this year. Thanks for the tips. And good luck!
January 20, 2021 at 1:21 am
rosihollinbeck
Lucky you. What a great chance for you. Yes, it’s a good idea to get out of our comfort zones. It’s hard for me, but I think it might break some new ideas loose. Thanks for the post.
January 20, 2021 at 1:24 am
SSR Bea
Getting out of my writing comfort zone is so challenging. Thanks for the inspiration.
January 20, 2021 at 1:28 am
betlw
You sure inspired me, Katie. Tomorrow I’m going to try something totally different. I don’t know what yet, but I’m going to look for it hard. I like your enthusiasm! So, how do you write with five underfoot? You must be a multitasker. Great post!
January 20, 2021 at 2:12 am
Judith Snyder
It sounds like your confidence and tenacity will see you through those uncomfortable moments. Glad you went for it!
January 20, 2021 at 2:47 am
Marzieh Abbas
Thanks Katie- I agree, I took on an opportunity to write for a magazine in 2020- I sent them one MS they liked and then they wanted me to write a column for every issue of their yet un-launched magazine. It was tough, but brainstorming those 12 ideas gave me so many more ideas! so happy for you and crossing my fingers you have good news too!
January 20, 2021 at 3:15 am
brittanypomales
Amazing post, Katie. Loved hearing about how the writing lab pushed you!
January 20, 2021 at 3:48 am
Rachel S. Hobbs Gunn
Thank you!
January 20, 2021 at 4:15 am
Jamie Donahoe
Just the advice I needed today as I sit down for a Zoom work session!!
January 20, 2021 at 5:10 am
Cindy Jeklin
Very funny post! Thank you. Best of luck with your screen writing opportunity!
January 20, 2021 at 6:48 am
susanfilkins
I like stretching and getting out of my comfort zone. Always a bit scary but good in the end! Thank you!
January 20, 2021 at 8:48 am
HelenAddyman
LairBnB – love it! 2020 wasn’t a creative year for me, but stepping outside my comfort zone this year sounds exciting, rather than daunting, so I’m going to give it a try!
January 20, 2021 at 8:50 am
Jo Jo Harder
Great advice! Always a good idea to expand our horizons! Keeping my fingers crossed for you!
January 20, 2021 at 9:02 am
Beth Charles
Oh my gosh, you are soooo brave! Good luck with your pitches. This sure is a time for writing bravery. Thanks for the reminder!
January 20, 2021 at 9:03 am
Jennifer Weisse
Wow, great advice. I have trouble coming out of my comfort zone, so I will push myself to try! A great example of running with an opportunity! Best wishes for your picture book….looks adorable!
January 20, 2021 at 9:24 am
Debi Boccanfuso
good luck to you! I feel like the comfort zone is so safe…I feel like an imposter when I go out of it…but I have to push myself! THANK YOU.
January 20, 2021 at 9:30 am
ssspice
What an opportunity. Sounds fun!
January 20, 2021 at 10:22 am
Kelly Vavala
It is challenging to go out of your comfort zone! Every once in awhile I try something different and write in that mood. What an excellent opportunity you had! Thank you for sharing your journey! Wish you much success!
January 20, 2021 at 10:45 am
pbbeckyk
Wow! Wishing you all the luck! Having the courage to step out of our comfort zones is half the battle and you’ve done it. It will be so fun to see all of your wonderful results, including your upcoming PB. Hooray for Tabitha and Fritz!
January 20, 2021 at 11:04 am
Alicia Meyers
Good luck!!! How exciting!!
January 20, 2021 at 11:05 am
Susan Cabael
I think writing in different styles, tones, and topics is one of the best ways to grow as a writer.
January 20, 2021 at 12:09 pm
Naana Amissah
What an exciting opportunity, Kate! Have fun! Thanks for the encouragement to try writing something unfamiliar.
January 20, 2021 at 12:37 pm
8catpaws
Say YES to a new genre
Say YES TO non-fiction or rhyme
Say YES to a wordless story
Say YES to a challenge
Say YES–it’s time!
January 20, 2021 at 12:40 pm
melissamiles1
I love this! I kind of write everything all ready as far as age levels, but I’ve never attempted Sci-Fi or Fantasy. Maybe I’ll jot down some ideas for those!
January 20, 2021 at 1:29 pm
Renner Writes (@barbararenner)
I would love to read your new book. It sounds like so much fun – and what a unique and funny idea about having an elephant and cat do a vacation swap. I’ve tried writing out of my comfort zone – no more rhyming for me. Thank you for the encouraging post.
January 20, 2021 at 1:31 pm
gattodesign
Well done and well said. Good luck to you. So many thoughts came our of this blog. Thank you.
January 20, 2021 at 1:33 pm
theresacocci
Thank you Katie, for your encouraging words. Stepping out of my comfort zone is such a helpful but scary idea. This will help me to think about my years as a teacher and possibly write about the times I had to do this with my kiddos and what could inspire me to write about that.
January 20, 2021 at 1:48 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Thanks for reminding us to step out of our comfort zones! It’s not easy, but it is necessary. Your example encourages people like me to take the leap.
January 20, 2021 at 1:54 pm
Marcie Mahuta
Thank you for sharing your inspirational story & good advice!
January 20, 2021 at 2:15 pm
Freda Lewkowicz
Thank you!
January 20, 2021 at 2:54 pm
donnacangelosi
Such fun reading what your brain said vs. how you responded to your friend. What an accurate, relatable depiction! Thanks for the reminder to step outside of our comfort zones!
January 20, 2021 at 3:00 pm
Joy Wieder
Putting in my big girl pants today!
January 20, 2021 at 3:06 pm
Julia A Mills
Comfy pants and coffee…ready to write!
January 20, 2021 at 3:08 pm
Shaunda Wenger
Thanks for the “push,” Katey! And congratulations on your book! It sounds fun!
January 20, 2021 at 3:15 pm
Laurel Goodluck
Yes, time to test comfort zone boundaries. Thank you!
January 20, 2021 at 3:26 pm
Poupette
What a fun opportunity! Are you reading lots of animation scripts and saving them as templates? When opportunity once struck, reading food and travel columns helped me transition from freelance writing about boats to regular submission about other. Hope to bump into you in Ft. La-di-dah!
January 20, 2021 at 3:57 pm
Cassie Bentley
I needed that. Getting out of my comfort zone is soooo scaaarrrrryyyy for me. You gave me an idea for a book though, not in my comfort zone. Crossing my fingers and jumping into my big girl pants.
January 20, 2021 at 4:03 pm
Micki Ginsberg
I wish you luck, Katie! And you’re so right—we need to move out of our comfort zones.
January 20, 2021 at 4:08 pm
angie9091
What an amazing opportunity!
January 20, 2021 at 4:12 pm
Katie Williams
So brave to step outside your comfort zone and reach for the stars! Best of luck and thanks for sharing your insight : )
January 20, 2021 at 4:18 pm
Sandy Perlic
When we move out of our comfort zones is when real growth occurs–I knew that, but am grateful for the reminder because I haven’t done enough of it lately. Thank you, Katie!
January 20, 2021 at 4:28 pm
savannahpalma
Thank you for sharing.
January 20, 2021 at 5:00 pm
Janie Reinart
Katie,
Good luck with the screen writing! You go girl!
Looking forward to reading your new book.
January 20, 2021 at 6:30 pm
storiesbythesea
Jumping into writing picture books is that jump for me at the moment! I look forward to feeling comfortable someday soon! 🙂
January 20, 2021 at 6:46 pm
Mary Zychowicz
Good for you for pushing out of your comfort zone. That is so tough but so good for creators! Good luck with that endeavor. As for LairBnB!! Oh my goodness! So clever. I cannot wait to read this book! No doubt, kids will love the humor! Thank you for your inspiration.
January 20, 2021 at 7:03 pm
sharon lane holm
You know what they say about big girl…pant-ies. I’m ready to try a non fiction story, I’ve only written humorous fiction (or is it really fiction). Recently relocated back home to Florida after 35 years in CT. I used to live in Ft. Lauderdale, oh those were the crazy days. But then again, you are much younger than I. thank you, time to try a different dirction
January 20, 2021 at 7:12 pm
Naomi Gruer
It’s wonderful when someone believes you can do the thing you’re not sure you can do–and then you do it!
January 20, 2021 at 7:17 pm
LaurenKerstein
I’m in my comfy pants and pushing myself outside of my comfort zone (with you beside me, my dear friend and CP)! What a fabulous post! My fingers are crossed for you. OH! And I LOVE Tabitha and Fritz so much!
January 20, 2021 at 8:31 pm
Trine Grillo
I’ve recently dabbled a bit in writing more humor.
January 20, 2021 at 8:48 pm
Sarah Kilfoil
This is gear advice. I definitely think I get stuck in writing ruts. This may help shake some ideas loose!
January 20, 2021 at 8:55 pm
Masha Sapron
Excited for you book to come out!
January 20, 2021 at 9:46 pm
marianariosr
Thanks for encouraging us to get out of our comfort zone. After taking a look at my stories I can tell I write more or less the same type of themes and always heartfelt ones. I will try to write something different and see how that goes. Maybe I’ll be amazed. Thanks!
January 20, 2021 at 9:51 pm
jimchaize1
Lots of good advice here. Thanks, Katie, and best wishes with your screenwriting adventure.
January 20, 2021 at 9:57 pm
ingridboydston
This is a timely post for me. As a writer of wacky, zany, madcap rhyming fiction, I revised a wacky, zany, only partly in rhymes non-fiction story! Baby steps in my big girl pants… 😂 Thanks for the encouragement!
January 20, 2021 at 11:46 pm
Patricia Tiffany Morris
thanks! exciting to learn what comes next!
January 21, 2021 at 12:36 am
Renata Wurster
This is such great advice! In so many areas of life!
January 21, 2021 at 12:45 am
Lyn Miller-Lachmann
LairBnB–love it! And good luck with your screenwriting proposal!
January 21, 2021 at 1:01 am
Kaye Baillie
Trying a new style is a great idea. thanks, katie.
January 21, 2021 at 1:20 am
claireannette1
I’m ready to try something new. Thanks for the encouragement and good luck with your pitches.
January 21, 2021 at 1:32 am
AlisonMarcotte
I can’t wait to read your debut picture book! Sounds hilarious. Thank for the inspiration — I need to get out of my comfort zone and write stories in different genres/tone/formats/etc.!
January 21, 2021 at 3:13 am
Jeannette Suhr
I hope all goes well for your with your participating in a writer’s lab. How exciting to contribute to writing children’s animation! Thank you for the reminder to step outside my comfort zone. I am excited about the ideas that that will generate.
January 21, 2021 at 3:26 am
marnijlo
Great advice and encouragement to stretch ourselves and sometimes get out of our stretchy pants. Thank you for sharing!
January 21, 2021 at 7:03 am
Beverly K. Taylor
Thanks for sharing all your great advice about getting out of our comfort zone. I’d be up for trying animation soon. Write on!
January 21, 2021 at 8:32 am
Jane Heitman Healy
Katie, it is said that doing something completely new forges new pathways in the brain. If so, you are firing on all synapses! Good for you for trying this new thing–and for telling us about it. Much success to you!
January 21, 2021 at 8:47 am
Michele Helsel
Wow, great advice! And what a great opportunity for you! I’m so glad you said yes and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!
January 21, 2021 at 9:14 am
Patricia Alcaro
Thank you, Katie, for affirming that getting out of my comfort zone is the way to go…
January 21, 2021 at 9:38 am
Elizabeth Metz
Oh wow, what a cool opportunity, Katie! Excited to see what becomes of it.
As someone who ALWAYS needs a reminder to get out of her comfort zone (in creative life and beyond)… thank you for this reminder.
January 21, 2021 at 10:03 am
clairebobrow
Excellent advice, Katie! I guess it’s time to bust out of my comfortable pants and embrace more things that are new and challenging. Congrats on your book, good luck with your movie lab adventure, and thank you!
January 21, 2021 at 10:55 am
Kate Carroll
My big girl pants are making their debut for the first time in months, and they are shouting uncomfortable! But I am eating the “food” you left here for the journey and feel confident that the more I partake, the more comfy my pants will become! Awesome post! Thanks, congrats and fingers crossed for you!
January 21, 2021 at 10:56 am
Sara Matson
Thanks for the reminder!
January 21, 2021 at 11:13 am
allyenz
I love how you shared your internal dialogue (My brain vs. Me)–that alone is igniting some ideas in my head! I can’t wait to check out your Tabitha & Fritz Trade Places (Lair BnB–HA!). Kooky characters are also my jam! 🙂 I hope we will get to hear more about your animation pitches–I’m curious whether writing those has changed your storybook writing in any surprising ways? Thanks so much for this fun post. 🙂
January 21, 2021 at 11:22 am
Helen Lysicatos
Great advice! It is easy to get stuck in one lane, thank you for the push!
January 21, 2021 at 11:36 am
nicolesalterbraun
I tend to write humorous PB’s but really want to write one w/ heart. Something like Ida Always, which always gives me the feels. You have pushed me out of my comfort zone
January 21, 2021 at 11:49 am
Susan Schade
Great advice- in writing and in life! I can’t wait to read your book! It looks hilarious!
January 21, 2021 at 12:17 pm
Angela De Groot
Awesome pep talk, Katie. Thank you for pushing me out of my comfort zone, urging me to work on a project that’s outside my wheelhouse. Best of luck with your debut. Can’t wait to read it.
January 21, 2021 at 1:05 pm
Annie Lynn, AnnieBirdd Music, LLC
Katie, thanks for sharing your courage. I bet you will become a screenwriter for animation, and look back on this realizing the Universe directed you to where you might additionally shine. As the Universe tends to do. I hope you will do a follow up letting us know how it turned out. Best wishes. Stay well all.
January 21, 2021 at 2:23 pm
Janet Johnson
Wow! What a great opportunity. Crossing fingers for you, too!
January 21, 2021 at 3:00 pm
libbydemmon
The pants that were comfortable at the beginning of 2020 are no longer. Alas. (Great tips!)
January 21, 2021 at 3:40 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Wonderful opportunity!! Good luck and keep us posted!
January 21, 2021 at 4:49 pm
karynellis
I’m a singer/songwriter by trade, so this realm of children’s books is already waaaay outside my comfort zone! hahaha 😀 Loved your post. Love the big girl pants!
January 21, 2021 at 4:50 pm
Joannie Duris
Fingers crossed on your animation proposals, Katie! We never know where the power of “Yes!” will take us. Stepping outside our comfort zones just might take us on amazing (sometimes scary) adventures.
January 21, 2021 at 5:40 pm
brontebrown2
Step out of my comfort zone…symbolism and humor come to mind…not sure how but out of my comfort zone.
January 21, 2021 at 5:52 pm
LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora)
Great advice, Katie. Thank you and keep us posted on your animation opportunity!
January 21, 2021 at 6:00 pm
goodreadswithronna
How exciting, Katie! Not everyone would have said yes to the opportunity out of fear, but the fact that you didn’t back off is a great motivator for all of us who second guess ourselves. Best of luck!
January 21, 2021 at 6:48 pm
Michele Rietz
Thanks Katie! I love yoga pants and I love the premise of your book! Congrats and thanks for setting a good example of getting out of your comfort zone! (Scary, for sure, but I love it!) I hope you have great success with your 10 screenplay ideas.
January 21, 2021 at 7:17 pm
Janet Halfmann
Can’t wait to read your book, and definitely going to try some humorous picture books!
January 21, 2021 at 7:19 pm
Nicole Loos Miller
This encourages me to pick up a non-fiction story that I gave up on! Thank you, Katie!
January 21, 2021 at 8:02 pm
Stephanie Jones
Try new things. Of course. Yikes! Thanks for the heads encouragement, though. 🙂
January 21, 2021 at 10:07 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Thanks for your post!
January 22, 2021 at 12:23 am
Virginia Rinkel
I’ve given up on more than a couple stories, and this encourages me to go take another look, from a different angle. Thank you, Katie.
January 22, 2021 at 12:53 am
Toni Weeks
I loved this post so much! Taking risks in life–or in writing–only sometimes uncovers gems, but it always leads to growth. Thanks for the push!
January 22, 2021 at 4:09 am
Terri Sabol
What an exciting opportunity for you! Thanks for sharing, Katie!
January 22, 2021 at 8:36 am
Joy Pitcairn
Your debut looks delightful! Looking forward to reading it.
Also cheers for Fort Lauderdale and chasing those iguanas away. I was born and raised there, but live in a place with much colder winters for now!
January 22, 2021 at 10:55 am
daniellesharkan
Great idea!
January 22, 2021 at 11:06 am
authorlaurablog
Great post, Katie! I have been stretching my writing in new directions and it’s both satisfying and terrifying.
January 22, 2021 at 11:09 am
Kristin Sawyer
I wanna try a LairBNB! 🙂
In this Storystorm month, my first, I’ve been letting all the ideas just fly, doesn’t matter the topic or genre. Thank you for cheering us on to step out of our comfort zones.
January 22, 2021 at 2:26 pm
JoLynne Ricker Whalen
Thanks Katie for encouraging writers to get out of the comfort zone. Tabitha and Fritz looks hilarious!
January 22, 2021 at 3:09 pm
kaitlinsikeswrites
I loved reading this, it’s exactly what I’ve been doing, pushing myself to learn new things and it has made my writing better. Go Gators! (Go write the next great american novel!) haha. (Signed, a fellow gator)
January 22, 2021 at 3:55 pm
Phaea Crede - Jet the Cat (Is Not a Cat) author (@PhaeaCrede)
Love that flexin’! And LairBNB is brilliant.
January 22, 2021 at 4:23 pm
syorkeviney
I love that you shared your giant leap from your comfort zone! Your words are inspiring! Thank you!
January 22, 2021 at 4:27 pm
writeknit
Being comfortable with the umcomfortable! Thanks for the great post.
January 22, 2021 at 4:55 pm
Patti Ranson
It has been easy to stay in my little comfort zone during this pandemic. I’ve stepped outside of this zone with a new pair of pants just his week – thank you for all your encouragement:) Congrats on stepping out and strutting in your new zone!
January 22, 2021 at 6:31 pm
janetfrencksheets
This makes me wonder: How easy should writing be? Some PB writers say their best stories practically write themselves. (I’ve never had that experience.) I’d love to know whether a lot of PB writers feel their best work is one they really struggled over.
January 22, 2021 at 6:50 pm
Karen Pickrell
Thank you for inspiring me to get out of my comfort zone as a writer. Congratulations on your upcoming book!
January 23, 2021 at 1:40 am
Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez
Thank you so much for the reminder to step out of our comfort zones and see where it takes us, Katie! Congratulations!!
January 23, 2021 at 11:18 am
yangmommy
Not only do I love the character names here, but “LairBnB”?!? Hilarious! And yes, trying something different is so good for us, whether it’s a new style of writing, genre, or medium. Best in the animation world (my dream job was to write for My Little Pony!) 🙂
January 23, 2021 at 12:33 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
What an amazing opportunity and challenge! Best wishes on that and your upcoming book. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 23, 2021 at 12:36 pm
muskoshe
Now it is time to get out of my comfort zone. I need to change from sleep pants and try on another pant to bring out a new inspiration.
January 23, 2021 at 12:53 pm
topangamaria
Thanks for the push.
January 23, 2021 at 1:07 pm
Ellen Leventhal
Can I still do it in leggings and a sweat shirt? Lol. Seriously, I have been trying to write outside my comfort zone, and your post is the push I needed. Thanks! Congrats and good luck in animation! Excited for you!
January 23, 2021 at 1:14 pm
heatherbell37
Thanks for the encouragement to go outside my comfort zone 🙂
January 23, 2021 at 1:26 pm
Susie Sawyer
I love my comfy pants! And I promise to step outside my comfy zone – wearing them. Thank you, Katie!
January 23, 2021 at 1:32 pm
Shirley Ng-Benitez
Congratulations! All good luck to you on those pitches!
January 23, 2021 at 1:57 pm
cravevsworld
Very interesting to hear about the writer’s lab. Looking forward to your debut PB. Thanks for sharing!
January 23, 2021 at 2:57 pm
Val McC
How true about comfort zones — thanks for the challenge to throw off my comfies and stretch the writing ideas, Katie!
January 23, 2021 at 3:33 pm
Sarah Lynne John
Great tips, and I love that you took on such an exciting challenge!
January 23, 2021 at 3:56 pm
Amanda Malek-Ahmadi
Tabitha and Fritz sound like great characters. Thanks for talking about enjoying the journey and wandering out of one’s comfort zone. Thanks to my CG group this past week I took a concept futher than I would have if it hadn’t been for them pusihing me out of my comfort zone.
January 23, 2021 at 4:16 pm
Mark Ceilley
I like the idea of stepping out of my comfort zone. Thank you for challenging me. Congratulations on your new book!
January 23, 2021 at 4:47 pm
jennyb_writes
First of all, congrats on your new opportunity! Thank you for your post. Your article not only led me to a great idea, it’s also an idea that requires me to step WAY out of my comfort zone and into the world of non-fiction. Eeek! Here we go!
January 23, 2021 at 7:06 pm
TL Fales
I love the idea of Lair BnB. Can’t wait to read the book.
January 23, 2021 at 7:19 pm
Kellie
Sound advice Katie – if nothing else, getting out of our comfort zones gives us renewed energy and focus once we step back in.
January 23, 2021 at 7:32 pm
Ellen Crosby
I agree with this! Every time I have stepped out of my comfort, it has been beneficial to growing the person who is me! Looking forward to reading your book!
January 23, 2021 at 7:49 pm
Brenda Whitehead (@BrendaW_Prof)
Love this, Katie…but I so love my comfy pants…! 😉
January 23, 2021 at 8:26 pm
Elise Katz
would love to receive this book. Congratulations on your book!
January 24, 2021 at 7:55 am
Blair Ortman
This is an inspiring story! Thank you!
January 24, 2021 at 12:22 pm
Julie Augensen-Rand
Great advise. Thanks,
January 24, 2021 at 2:44 pm
mandyyokim
How exciting, Katie! Thanks for the reminder to stretch outside of our comfort zone – and you are so right about the comfy pants!
January 24, 2021 at 3:21 pm
claudine108
This is great advice, Katie! I am a new writer and it is a good reminder to try different things!
January 24, 2021 at 3:24 pm
iefaber
Whoa! Congratulations! I hope something comes out of all your work and tears.
January 24, 2021 at 4:13 pm
Wendy
I’ve been wearing blue jeans all year and seriously feel like I’m missing out. Ready to shed!
January 24, 2021 at 4:13 pm
Heather Kelso
Congratulations on our book and I hope you much success with your pitches, good luck!
January 24, 2021 at 6:12 pm
Dina Ticas
Thank you for the encouragement to reach outside of what I’m inclined to write.
January 24, 2021 at 6:22 pm
Debbie Meyer
Oh yes, comfortable pants are where it’s at. 😉 Congratulations on your book!!
January 24, 2021 at 6:57 pm
Kathy Berman
Good for you! Congrats on your new book and for jumping into something entirely new. Change is good.
January 24, 2021 at 9:08 pm
Lauri Meyers
good luck!
January 24, 2021 at 11:00 pm
Gretchen McLellan
My fingers are crossed for you! I’m so glad you had fun with that challenge–isn’t that the key. Joy!
Thanks for the advice of trying new forms, genre, and kinds of pants and keeping it fun.
Best of luck!
January 24, 2021 at 11:33 pm
Artelle Lenthall
Thank you for sharing Late and good luck 🤞
January 24, 2021 at 11:35 pm
Artelle Lenthall
Honestly, autocorrect🙄Thanks for sharing Katie!
January 25, 2021 at 1:29 am
Karen Greenwald
Cool, Katie! So basically, it was a firebutt writing lab?! Can’t wait to hear what happens next!
January 25, 2021 at 5:03 am
sylviaichen
That is such a crazy-cool opportunity, good luck!!!
January 25, 2021 at 7:01 am
Stacey Corrigan
Very exciting Katie!
January 25, 2021 at 8:41 am
Jen Lynn Bailey
life is great in yoga pants. But yes, I agree that our stories can’t get too comfortable!
January 25, 2021 at 11:31 am
Kelly Conroy
What an amazing opportunity! Good luck! And ok – I promise to try something new this year too! Thanks for the nudge!
January 25, 2021 at 11:42 am
Matt Forrest Esenwine
Great advice! I remember Kwame Alexander saying that whenever he was asked to do something he hadn’t done before, he always said “Yes!” It’s the best way to grow.
January 25, 2021 at 11:51 am
ejessmurray
Thanks, Katie! Good luck, great post.
January 25, 2021 at 2:47 pm
jessica shaw
Thanks for the inspiration, Katie! When I first started writing, I stayed stuck in rhyme mode for far too long. Now I love toggling back and forth between rhyme and prose. I do have a hard time stepping away from humor though! Can’t wait for Tabitha and Fritz! Congrats and fingers crossed on your pitches! (Comfy pants for the win!)
January 25, 2021 at 3:53 pm
suzannepoulterharris
Wow, what an opportunity for you! I love the idea of stretching ourselves beyond our comfort zone.
January 25, 2021 at 4:03 pm
Marilyn R Garcia
Holy cow – 10 movie or series pitches in two weeks! I’d definitely do some crying, not almost crying, but honest to God “what am I doing with my life” crying. You are very brave. And your post gave me the idea for a punny story about iguanas – go figure.
January 25, 2021 at 4:59 pm
Keren Dibbens-Wyatt
Hope it works out! Great advice, thank you.
January 25, 2021 at 5:15 pm
Karen Conley Chun
This is such good advice to think outside the comfort zone. I just recently entered a contest for adult writers (short piece). I hope I get some feedback!
January 25, 2021 at 7:17 pm
erintsiska
Hi Katie! I can relate to your iguana issues because I’m in Plantation, Florida. Thank you for the inspiration. I can’t wait to check out Tabitha and Fritz! Hope it all works out in the animation lab – fingers and toes crossed for you!
January 25, 2021 at 9:09 pm
Stephanie Lau
Ooh! Hope something fun comes out of that writer’s lab!
January 25, 2021 at 11:01 pm
Sensitive and Extraordinary Kids
I loved this and I couldn’t agree more! It’s only when we step out of our comfort zones that we really begin to grow. I have a list of new things I want to try this year and I’m scared/excited!
January 26, 2021 at 2:30 am
Gaby
Katie, I love the illustration of your book “TABITHA AND FRITZ TRADE PLACES”, looking at the elephant and the cat make me to smile, and travel to my childhood. Writing outside of our comfort zone, could be challenge, but give us the opportunities to dig into our memories.
January 26, 2021 at 10:43 am
Christine @ Goodjelly
Thanks, Katie. Love this directive. ❤
January 26, 2021 at 4:15 pm
Julie Reich
Congrats on your upcoming release, and thanks for the advice!
January 27, 2021 at 12:21 am
Shannon McPherson
I love my comfy pants! Here in Ontario, Canada, we are still in lockdown. I am teaching kindergarten from my kitchen table…while wearing comfy pants! Thank you for the reminder to move out of our comfort zone. Things we know we should do, but sometimes need that push!
January 27, 2021 at 3:58 pm
jeanjames926
This was an exciting post to read. Congratulations on your upcoming book, it looks like a lot of fun, as well as your new opportunity – good luck!
January 27, 2021 at 7:50 pm
Bill Canterbury
Helpful advice here!
January 28, 2021 at 6:42 am
srkckass
Thank you for your advice. Writing outside your comfort zone is sort of like exercise – I’m sure it’s got to be healthy for you!
January 28, 2021 at 8:53 am
Betsy Devany
Thank you for the reminder to write outside of your comfort zone.
January 28, 2021 at 10:51 am
Babs Ostapina
Thanks for the “uncomfortable” reminder to stretch, Katie!
January 28, 2021 at 1:18 pm
Judy Palermo
Great reminder, Katie — and good luck to you!!!
January 28, 2021 at 1:23 pm
Brenda Grant Lower
I love trying different genres, different formats! What a great opportunity for you! Good luck!
January 28, 2021 at 6:05 pm
Judy Bryan
Thank you for the push to step out of my comfort zone. Good luck on your pitches! I’ll be following you on twitter to see what happens. 🙂
January 28, 2021 at 9:52 pm
Debbi G
Thanks for your advice to go out of your comfort zone. I needed that push.
January 28, 2021 at 10:55 pm
Karen L Ledbetter
I like the pushes
January 29, 2021 at 4:48 pm
Kimberly Wilson
Great advice! And good luck on your pitches!
January 29, 2021 at 7:37 pm
Amelia Shearer
A great reminder and push out of our comfort zones! Thank you!
January 30, 2021 at 12:10 am
thedandelionzoo
Thanks!
January 30, 2021 at 3:36 am
rjtraxel
That’s awesome. Good for you.
January 30, 2021 at 1:05 pm
Anna Brooks
Thank you for the great advice! I’ve actually had a kids’ TV show script produced, but have not published a picture book. Reverse order! Good luck with your pitches!!
January 30, 2021 at 4:42 pm
dlapmandi
A great lesson for all of us. Write what you don’t know!! Thanks for the post.
January 30, 2021 at 5:24 pm
Susan Niemann
Can’t wait to read your book!
January 30, 2021 at 5:35 pm
colleenrkosinski
The animation gig sounds exciting!
January 30, 2021 at 6:58 pm
Aimee R Larke
That is so awesome for you! Congratulations and thanks for sharing.
January 30, 2021 at 8:58 pm
Laura Renauld
Your new book looks like a hoot! Can’t wait to read it.
January 30, 2021 at 10:22 pm
Amy Bradshaw
Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I can’t wait to read your new book – your description reminds me of The Holiday, one of my favorites.
January 31, 2021 at 3:36 pm
Amy M. Miller
Love your sense of humor, Katie (Lair B&B — so funny!). Can’t wait to read it when it comes out. Thanks for the great advice.
January 31, 2021 at 4:05 pm
Melissa McDaniel
Your book looks adorable, Katie!!! Thanks for your suggestions!
January 31, 2021 at 5:29 pm
Mary Worley
Very inspiring post. Hope you get good news on the animation ideas. Your books looks delightful!
January 31, 2021 at 5:50 pm
Judith Wright Aplin
What an absolutely fun idea for a story! I anticipate a great, fun read and a book to share with the children in my life….
January 31, 2021 at 7:52 pm
Bettie Boswell
Love your conversation with your brain.
January 31, 2021 at 8:15 pm
Jen Walsh Hawks
Can’t wait to read your book! Love the dialogue in your post!
February 1, 2021 at 12:10 am
Amy Newbold
Thanks for the encouragement to step out of the comfort zone!
February 1, 2021 at 12:50 am
Jennifer Broedel (@JBroedelAuthor)
Katie, you KNOW I think you’re amazing, but it was so fun to learn about your new venture! We’ve talked before about how liberating it can be to try new things, and I loved reading your encouraging account of your own experience. You’re a rock star!
February 1, 2021 at 2:03 pm
Jen (aka RandomlyGenerated)
A ship is safe in harbour, but that’s not what ships are for!
February 1, 2021 at 2:28 pm
Audrey
Couldn’t agree more, Katie! And I can’t wait for my pre-order of Tabitha and Fritz to arrive!
February 1, 2021 at 2:40 pm
Sarah Noble
So exciting! Love your post. It’s so important to push yourself to try new things.
February 1, 2021 at 10:51 pm
kmshelley
Great idea for stretching. Thanks!
February 2, 2021 at 8:13 am
Lisa L Furness
TABITHA AND FRITZ TRADE PLACES sounds fun! I will put on my big girl pants and try writing out of my comfort zone. But I may have to go buy some first. Thanks, Katie!
February 2, 2021 at 1:45 pm
Lynne Marie
So happy to be a part of your journey (and Tabitha and Fritz’s). Thanks for the inspiration!
February 5, 2021 at 11:00 am
Dea Brayden
Lairbnb- cracked me up. Congrats! Off to try new things!
February 5, 2021 at 9:38 pm
KASteed
I will try writing out of my comfort zone. Thanks!
February 6, 2021 at 12:49 am
Lindsay Brayden Ellis
Good advice. Haven’t even seen my uncomfortable pants since Mar of 2020…
February 17, 2021 at 9:14 pm
lorisherritt
I challenge myself to NOT write in rhyme and to try a middle grade novel that has been percolating for years….thanks for the encouragement