Sounds remedial, I know. But why don’t you take a moment to write down what success really is. No, seriously. I’ll wait. Not all that easy, is it? When I coach individuals, particularly women, writers and women writers, they seem to define success in others’ terms. They’re looking outward for someone else to draw the parameters that define success. Here’s how I believe a writer should define success. It’s not what you think. You are a success if… You are pursuing your dream. So you want to be a writer. Great. Are you working toward that goal? I’m not referring to the dozens of already published novels by Susie May Warren or Rachel Hauck. I’m asking if you are making strides toward your goal? If so, you’re a success. You […]
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Blast the Winter Blues, Part One: Hibernate Wisely
Most of the country is knee deep in snow and ice of the mid-winter blues. Going out is like having a root canal, a very painful experience. You’d rather pass, thank you very much. You’re hibernating. I get it. Ok, since I live in central Florida, I don’t suppose I totally get it. But, hang with me here. This is for your own good. You can only watch reruns of NCIS a billion times before your brain turns to slush and your TV explodes. So, what are you to do? Wouldn’t you just love to usher in the springtime having had a very productive hibernation? I’m sure you would. Who wouldn’t? In order to stop and smell the roses in April, you have to hibernate wisely today. Here are some […]
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Declaration of Independence Part 3: When Freedom is Threatened
During the last two weeks, you have learned a lot about your freedom to pursue your dream of being an author. I would love to be able to tell you that your newfound freedom will never be challenged. I’d be lying and you’d be unprepared. Just as our nation faces enemies who hate our freedom, you will have those who are jealous of you. When they see you moving forward, pounding the keyboard, pitching your story and landing a contract, they will target you as the recipient if their emotional bombshells. Expect it. Prepare for it. Survive it and in spite of those attacks, keep living your dream. Just as our great nation has survived—and thrived—every threat and attack against it, you have what it takes to do the same. […]
Read the RestSeven Things Every Writer Must Do, Part Six: Add Value to Others
I love to encourage others. To motivate them and help point them to success. At the end of the day, if I’ve added value to someone, I feel fulfilled. For me to see a writer who is discouraged, afraid or lacking self confidence is like saying “sick-umm” to a bull dog. I’m all over it. You might say I jump on the opportunity because God gave me the gift of encouragement. While that is true, it wouldn’t work if I didn’t believe it. But, fortunately, I do believe in the human spirit and how much it can achieve. And I truly want to see everyone live up to their potential. To live their dream. Think of children. When they are faced with an unfamiliar task, they may be timid. They […]
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