The Ups and Downs of the Writing Life: A Reflection

It's not as easy as it seems. . .

​People think an author sits and drinks lattes as words stream from her pen. Then off to submit to agents and editors. In a few weeks, voilá - a contract. Soon, royalties come streaming in, and the celebrated author is on the way to her villa in Santorini. Or maybe Tuscany.

​NOT.
SO not the way it is!
That story above? Well, it's a fairy tale. Don't be fooled.

Being an author is more like putting your bottom in a chair and writing, posting, submitting, revising, emailing, networking, learning. . . all in a day's work. And most of the time, with no sign of success.

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It's easy to get discouraged when:

• your royalties are so small (even though you are happy with the number of books sold in a two month period), they are added to next year's total.
• You've submitted over 20 times this year, and no one is biting.
• Libraries are not doing author talks due to low attendance.
• etc.

Welcome to the realities of an author.
But before you feel sorry for me, remember this:

I LOVE MY WRITING LIFE!

So, along the way, I need to take the time to reflect and be grateful. When I do, I realize there are bright spots. . .

• A teacher calls and confirms she'd love to have you come to speak with her class.
• Readers tell you they couldn't put the book down, and read it in one sitting (not too difficult when it's around 100 pages, medium font).
• You are asked to blog for a writer's conference website.
• A student reads your book before your school visit and comes with a list of well-thought-out questions. And uncovers a secret - you've always wanted a baby brother!
• While the snow is gently falling outside your window, you can sit cozily in your chair and read.
• You are invited to be a part of not one, but three book launch teams (many of them have online questionnaires you need to fill out and submit for review before they make the decision).
• You have the privilege of giving away your book to less fortunate children and organizations.
• You know your book offers hope to all who read. In an uncertain world, that is a blessing.

I'm learning to be thankful for what comes my way, and to be content with were I am in my author's journey. This quote reminded me once again of the dangers of comparison:

"Comparison is the enemy of contentment. It doesn't matter whether we compare our life circumstances to other people or to a master plan we've created for ourselves, the results are the same. We miss the excitement of what God is doing in our lives because we are upset over what He isn't doing. We critique His plan for our lives against the one we've drafted. When circumstances fall short we assume He is missing the mark, scarcely considering the possibility that we could be missing it instead." - Kurt D. Bruner in "Traveling Light"

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What things drain your contentment and leave you dry? To what or who do you compare yourself? Let me know in the comments below. . .

This world is a confusing place isnt it? Especially to young people. Do you or a young reader need a dose of hope? I'd be honored if you blessed someone this Thanksgiving with The Heart Changer. You'll be glad you did!

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Looking for a great writer’s conference to inspire and inform you? How about one in a beautiful locale? Do you long to make connections with agents and editors, as well as other writers and authors? Check out the SoCal Christian Writer’s Conference. The early bird price is disappearing soon!