Nov 2, 2011

Some Folks Will Love What You Do

I'm going to keep this short. Here's one simple truth I've learned since beginning my publishing journey:

Some people will love what you do

And if you care to pay attention, their enthusiasm will see you through everything else and give your confidence a nice jolt in the arm. When we're starting out, we really need that.

Thanks to all of you who have given me a nice jolt in the arm. It keeps me going. I do my best to return the favor. Not only are you fabulous people, there's a lot of amazing talent out there. I've read so many great books and stories recently, all by folks I know out there in bloggyland. Very well done, you guys. Bravo!

IWSG is the brainchild of Alex J. Cavanaugh. Thank you, Alex. 

33 comments:

Miranda Hardy said...

I love how you focus on the positive. There will be some people who like your stories and that makes it all worth while.

Melissa Bradley said...

Too true. This something I needed to be reminded of as I too often let haters and other negative people take up residence in my head space. Thank you!

Liza said...

What a lovely, positive post!

Misha said...

So far, the only serious amount of writing that's in public is my Rule of Three blogfest entry, but I get a serious jolt in my arm every time my awesome crits get and enjoy what I've written. ;-)

Rusty Webb said...

That is great advice, something I'll hold dearly.

AmieSalmon said...

Brill advice, stay positive. I feel that even if one person likes what I write, then it's been worthwhile!

Jonathan D Allen said...

Very timely, Mary. Just what I needed to hear. Thanks :)

Lisa Vaughn said...

Exactly! Funny how you can be doubting yourself one minute, then read a good review of your work and suddenly you are gung-ho again! I LOVE when that happens! Sometimes it just takes a few kind words to spark the fire again!

Lisa L. Regan said...

So true! Great post. Simple but powerful.

julie fedderson said...

You have to appreciate your cheerleaders. They make the dark days brighter.

Suze said...

Thank you, Alex, and thank you, M Pax!

Empty Nest Insider said...

Thanks for the great words of encouragement Mary! It is always a wonderful boost when you know others are rooting for you! Julie

Tara Tyler said...

thank you too, mary!
we all need that boost =)

L.G.Smith said...

Often we give too much credit to those who don't like what we've written (maybe out of some desperate need to please). But you're right, some people DO like what we've written, and that is the best feeling ever. Focus on that. :)

Nicki Elson said...

Yup, those shots in the arm are essential.

Christine Rains said...

Everyone needs good shot in the arm sometimes! I love what you write and I will continue to cheer you on. :)

Laila Knight said...

You make the world a better place with your awesome attitude, Mary. Brainchild...I always loved that word. Having someone love our work really goes a long way with our writer's self esteem. Take care. :)

Lynda R Young said...

Yes! Wonderful post! it's good to focus on those positives.

Nancy Thompson said...

Ah, you are so right. Just as there will always be people who DON'T like what you do. But you can't be everything to everybody. Like you, my fellow bloggers have helped keep my head above rising waters. Without folks who understand exactly what it is I do and why, I would be lost.

Isis Rushdan said...

Staying focused on the positive helps me as well. Great attitude and spirit :).

Stephen Tremp said...

Very true. Even when thinks look dark and gloomy there is always an audience who will find what you write interesting. Fascinating. ANd thanks for your offer to host me. I'll let you know soon a few ideas I have!

Lindsay said...

That's why it's so good to get your stuff out there, so you can find those people. Until then, all you have are crit buddies and editors, and they're trained to find fault! ;) You might just have an audience waiting who will enjoy your efforts (even if there are faults).

Ella said...

Mary, you are a sweetie! I love your uplifting post~ A space gal like yourself would know how to launch an ego! ;D

Tonja said...

Very true. I love your positive spin on things. Very encouraging.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Yes! And those people rock our world and keep us going. And I'm talking about people like YOU.

Andrea Franco-Cook said...

Great attitude. Better to look at the positive and disregard the negative.

Donna Hole said...

Thanks for being so upbeat. I need this reminder sometimes :)

.......dhole

Allan Douglas said...

Good advice, Mary. I'm glad you're getting a lot of encouragement - you've earned it.

Julie said...

This is great advice, and something I need to remember as I am usually guilty of focusing on the negative. If 10 people told me they liked something I wrote, and 1 person said they didn't, I would stew about that 1 person forever. I know I need to develop thicker skin!

Thanks for sharing your advice, and I'm glad you've been getting those shots in the arm, they are definitely deserved. :)

Jay Noel said...

I'm a perfectionist, and it seems I'm never 100% happy.

I'll keep your words of wisdom as I continue on my journey as an insecure writer.

LTM said...

You are so so right. And in this field, we have to keep that in mind. All the time. Yay for blogger love. We've got a terrific group here! :o)

sweepyjean said...

I also take heart in each bit of encouragement I receive, large or small. But thank goodness for the big love! Write on!

Pat Tillett said...

That is so true, in writing and with most other things in life.