From time to time, we all need encouragement and recognition of our accomplishments. It gives us that extra boost to believe we are good writers and we have something to offer.
But, not all writers necessarily have that kind of support. We want people to be happy for us; our family or friends. You might not get the reactions you were hoping for.
Christina Katz, author of the best seller Writer Mama, says in her recently published e-book, Write For Regional Parenting Publications:
"There is really one key person who should be happy about your writing career success and that person is you.”
There comes a time in your writing career when you have to come to terms with this truth so you don't slow down or give up. Decide to be happy with your successes even if no one else is.
Over the years, I have found times when I had to set a stake in the ground of something I knew to be true - never to waver again. And being personally happy about my success has been one of those stakes.
This is going to look differently for each of us. But the one place where we all start, is believing you have something to offer. It means your passion should not be tampered with. Tweaked, yes. But if we find that fire being quenched because no one seems to encourage you or appreciate your successes, you will become discouraged and perhaps give up.
It took me awhile to grasp believing in myself. It seemed like arrogance, but it's not. It's simply knowing what you can do well and doing it. Once that is established, you are tied to this truth and will be firmly established.
Stake your claim to you. There are no disqualifications! If you are writing, it's because you love to write. Inside of you there is something people want to read.
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Kathy is a K - 12 substitute teacher and enjoys writing for magazines. Recently, her story, "One of a Kind", was published in The Kids' Ark. You can find her passion to bring encouragement and hope to people of all ages at When It Hurts - http://kathleenmoulton.com
