About this post: https://x.com/nicomikha/status/2034336122948517934?s=20

I thought I could complete it on time, just like other projects, like the Echotale AU manga, where I illustrated 80 pages a month, while doing voice acting (as Chara), video editing, some character designs, editing as the script proofreader, and doing the editorial design.

But the harsh truth is: This time, I failed to finish it on time.

— But… but! You don’t have to show off your failures!
— Calm down, myself, but I need to. So people don’t have to do the same I did in the past. Here’s what I did wrong and what I can do instead:

1. Not being up to date on contests

I decided to use RSS news to my advantage. Because searching on social media and changing tabs actively, when I can have it in my browser with just a click, feels like I’m losing time.

So currently, I’m using Feeder because of the extension that shows the number of unread posts, and it is visually convenient. Certainly, this will save me time and sanity.

2. Not planning early/overworking

I got sick mid-process (again…), so since it happened twice, I can’t count on my health to maintain consistency on a high workload a third time. I never thought aging would lead me to seek healthier options. (Suddenly, mid-life crisis, even though I’m young).

The frustration of not keeping at the usual pace is real, and that means I need to find other solutions. Call it inconsistency, ADHD, autism, or whatever, I’m on the discovery path and trying to find a routine by filling up around 70% of my calendar with SMART goals tasks instead of relying on the “just do as much as your body and mind can produce because you’re capable” belief. That led me to burnout easily.

3. Perfectionism and thinking people won’t like the manga at all

Loser mindset.

Still working on it. If people want to read it, they will.

That’s only a projection of myself over other people, because the more I study art, essays, and script structures, the more I feel I know nothing, and consequently, think my work is trash. But in reality is not. That’s a big step towards improvement.

People fail. And will continue failing until Spantom says: “It’s your time to be a BIG SHOT!!!” and promotes you all over the world.

Yay. Congratulations.

Until then, it’s about keeping fighting for it together. Nobody is alone on this.

4. Juggling work time with my cat

Unfortunately, I’ll need to deprive myself of overhugging and petting her. This is dumb, I know, but I lost time nevertheless.

Setting 2 minutes to pet after a task, like a reward.