Hello Sallyj

Nice to know I'm not alone. At the moment I can't use the work/family excuse but still struggle to find the time and I think you've hit the nail on the head: it's just fear of failing. In my imagination everything I write is a success and why risk shattering that illusion?

If anyone has an iPod and can download podcasts through iTunes, look for The Secrets podcast by Michael A Stackpole. He's a sci-fi/fantasy writer but he's posted a whole series of 15 minute workshops on various aspects and the few I've heard have been really motivating...