When Lisa Jordan got her first book contract with Love Inspired, I got to go along for the ride. We talked and emailed back and forth sharing the adventure. We were also prayer partners. One day as I put fingers to keyboard, I felt the Lord leading me to pray that she would experience all the splendor of her very first time… at publishing. I realized that, even though she may publish hundreds of novels, she would NEVER again experience her first novel contract, launch, print. I meet with people every day of my career who look back over their lives wishing they’d taken more time to enjoy the journey. They were so focused on the end result, they don’t remember their first encounters. They rushed right by them with […]
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Don’t Be Fooled, Part 2: Putting Up with Writers Pollen
Pollen. One tiny seven-letter word packs a powerful impact in our day. This year, I experienced the pollen in Central Florida in January and February. Then as I traveled, I ran into it in March in North Florida. Now, I’m up in the mountains and getting my third dusting with it. The result? Read, itchy eyes, uncontrollable sneezing and a face that feels like it will explode. I think I’ve had my fill of… POLLEN! As I sit looking out the window at my yellow dusted car, I’m reminded that’s what writers face, too. You’re on a journey. As you travel the writing road, you’ll experience changes in climate and all that brings. You may have experienced your own irritants as you entered into a new season of your writing. […]
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Spring into Success, Part 4: Keep it Up!
Hopefully, over the last three weekends you’ve gotten off to a great start. See, the secret to success as a writer is no secret at all. You have to commit, start and keep going. It’s not easy but is sure is simple. There will be times when you simply can’t write. No worries. Take care of whatever life is throwing at you. But, don’t stay on that street. Get back on course and pick up where you left off. Most novels on the bookstore shelves are there simply because their authors kept writing after others gave up. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other. Unfortunately, most writers don’t take that advice. Here are a few of the top reasons authors’ efforts get derailed: They lose heart. They […]
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Spring into Success, Part 3: Begin
Sounds remedial, I know but here’s the thing. Only fourteen percent of all those who have a dream actually start to pursue it. Most talk themselves out of it before they even line up in the starting block! I’m shocked by that but it’s true. I also have to admit I’m guilty. I’ll bet you are, too. I’m a runner. Nothing clears my head or increases my stamina like a nice, long run. I’ve run marathons (26.2 miles in one race). You’d think my most difficult time would be at the twenty-five mile mark but not so. It’s the FIRST STEP! Before I start any run, I can rapidly come up with at least a hundred reasons why I shouldn’t lace on my running shoes and head out the door. […]
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