One of the things that I've learned as a writer is that patience and determination will eventually pay off...but having solid goals, finding motivation, and making time to write will move you closer to the end result.
I allowed myself to slack a bit this year with having to weather the storm of the last three rocky ones. My writing suffered but I still managed to have small releases. I really believe my positive thinking and affirmations have helped me overcome the rollercoaster emotions. The bottom line is that: WRITING IS HARD. If you keep telling yourself you're stuck, having writer's block, or simply can't find time...you have to ask yourself "Do I really want to be a writer?"
Okay, I know we all have it tough but sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and trudge forward. Even at a snail's pace, it's progress! I've learned a long time ago that your mind is a powerful tool and if you keep your eye on the target, you can just about overcome any obstacle. Most people may not know that I'm a good example of resilience and determination. Sixteen years ago I was in a car accident that affected me severely. I had neurological complications and health related issues stemming from the impact. Doctors told me that I would most likely never be "normal" again. I was basically considered disabled. Sure, I cried a bit and felt sorry for myself but when I snapped out of the funk—you bet I searched for ways to prove to my doctors that I wasn't going to settle for being helpless. Fast forward to 2011, anyone who ever met me now would never believe that I'd battled 16 years to be the person I am now. The sacrifices I've made, the rehabilitation, treatments...everything I endured was possible because of staying positive. It's overcoming my fears that I'd never be able to be physically and mentally healthy that gave me my drive.
Although it's been a tough journey as a writer, I'm a step closer to where I want to be and I'm not going to make excuses. I'll allow myself a sabbatical here and there but writing is like breathing for me. As 2012 approaches, I know what my goals are, I'm focused about my tasks, and I'm a few baby steps away from securing the full-time career that I was born to do!
How about you?
I allowed myself to slack a bit this year with having to weather the storm of the last three rocky ones. My writing suffered but I still managed to have small releases. I really believe my positive thinking and affirmations have helped me overcome the rollercoaster emotions. The bottom line is that: WRITING IS HARD. If you keep telling yourself you're stuck, having writer's block, or simply can't find time...you have to ask yourself "Do I really want to be a writer?"
Okay, I know we all have it tough but sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and trudge forward. Even at a snail's pace, it's progress! I've learned a long time ago that your mind is a powerful tool and if you keep your eye on the target, you can just about overcome any obstacle. Most people may not know that I'm a good example of resilience and determination. Sixteen years ago I was in a car accident that affected me severely. I had neurological complications and health related issues stemming from the impact. Doctors told me that I would most likely never be "normal" again. I was basically considered disabled. Sure, I cried a bit and felt sorry for myself but when I snapped out of the funk—you bet I searched for ways to prove to my doctors that I wasn't going to settle for being helpless. Fast forward to 2011, anyone who ever met me now would never believe that I'd battled 16 years to be the person I am now. The sacrifices I've made, the rehabilitation, treatments...everything I endured was possible because of staying positive. It's overcoming my fears that I'd never be able to be physically and mentally healthy that gave me my drive.
Although it's been a tough journey as a writer, I'm a step closer to where I want to be and I'm not going to make excuses. I'll allow myself a sabbatical here and there but writing is like breathing for me. As 2012 approaches, I know what my goals are, I'm focused about my tasks, and I'm a few baby steps away from securing the full-time career that I was born to do!
How about you?
7 comments:
I totally agree - it can be really tough at times and we must allow ourselves those times when all we can do is take baby steps. They are still steps.
Agreed! Dara, you are a great example of someone who can put out 20+ books even though you've had your fill of turbulent moments. It's absolutely inspiring! :)
Writing is such a tough career choice that positive thinking is sometimes the only way to stay sane. After having a baby this year it was a big adjustment, but I was writing 3 weeks after he was born. I can't imagine not doing this job even during the tough times.
Katie, you know I admire how dedicated you are with your writing. You've made me feel guilty a time or two for not writing...but you're also great about cheering me on! LOL
Your extraordinary journey is so inspiring! Thank you for sharing. Each of us follows a different road to publication--I used to write cartoons for kids TV--now I write erotic and historical. The bottom line is that we keep writing and never give up.
You are definitely proof of that!
Jina--that is so cool that you wrote cartoons for kids TV! How awesome is that? I love it! I know I want to get back to screenwriting next year as part of my other goals. Whatever writing I do is still writing so I totally agree with you :)
I'm trudging along right with you, if that helps. And I'm glad you've got such a positive attitude about life. Baby steps are still steps!
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