Today is Halloween. You already know that. These days, fewer people are afraid of supernatural beings. But we writers still have fears–the oft-acknowledged rejection, exposure, failure. We already know we have to act in spite of those fears in order to have any achievement at all. This mug reminds me that, while it may be uncomfortable, it’s necessary.

But my comfort zone isn’t always about fear. It’s just as often about facing hard work. Even tedious work. It’s about giving up some pleasures, e.g. reading, watching TV, time with friends, in order to give the necessary time to my chosen art. It’s about exercising self-discipline. It’s not always comfortable. I remind myself to accept that. And then get started.