Hey Friends,
It’s me, Onicia — writer, comedian, cultural influencer. Apparently, it’s been 10 years since IGNITE Caribbean launched it’s 30 Under 30 awards. As part of the 10-year anniversary, they want past honorees to reflect on our journey since being recognized.
My knee-jerk reaction: OMG, I haven’t done anything. I’ve sat with the questions a few days now and I don’t know how I feel. On one hand, I feel very content with what I’ve accomplished. But then I got that e-mail and I realized that I’ve barely made progress toward my big goal. Or rather, it feels like I’m in the same spot.
What am I doing wrong? What did I do that was right? What do I do next?!
BREATHE
Speaking for forward momentum.
Earlier this year, Women of Color United —a film industry networking group— paired me with a mentor who challenged me to query literary agents. My e-mail archive revealed that it had been 5 (FIVE) years since I first attempted to find representation. Time flies when you’re forging a path as an independent artist.
After a few drafts and some researching, I was able to query a handful of literary agents and managers. So far, I received some script read quests. I’ll have to wait a few weeks to know whether they’re interested in meeting with me. Fingers crossed.
How to keep my sanity during this period of waiting? Jump into another writing project.
This week, I finally started gathering my notes for my next feature film tentatively titled, Hey Ms. Trudy. I dont’ say anything else on this project because it’s in the very early stages. That said, I am open to typing the first draft live on YouTube like I did with RIPDD.
Other things?
Three of four of my plants survived the winter. Yay! More importantly, I was on top of them gnats and they didn’t bug us too much.
Pro tip: mix white vinegar, sugar, and a LITTLE BIT of dish liquid in a wide / shallow dish. This will catch the gnats and keep them from multiplying.
Finally, thanks to all my friends who remembered my birthday. I felt the love.