A very wise author gave me some advice last year.
"Surround yourself by what you want to become," she told me.
I wasn't really sure how I was supposed to do that. Stalk other children's writers? Randomly call them up and introduce myself?
She recommended that I join SCBWI, so I did. I also started to blog and took a writing class. I finished editing my novel, started querying and found an editor in New York who requested the full manuscript. I attended critiquenics and writer's day events. I entered a contest and won third place.
And now I realize that I've done it. I've surrounded myself by an amazing group of people I didn't know a year ago. I've met some wonderful authors, both in person and through the internet. And I've pushed myself closer to my goal, so close that I can smell the ink on the presses!
I may not have a published book yet, but I honestly believe it's only a matter of time.
Thank you, Mary. I'll keep you posted :^)
13 comments:
I do believe if you picture it, surround yourself with supporters, keep learning and enjoying your craft, YOU CAN DO IT!
I agree, Sherrie, it is so fun to be with others that enjoy (and understand) what you do.
I'm glad you joined up with SCBWI and blogland. It is wonderful to be around these people, isn't it?
*sniff* Definitely smells like printer's ink.
You go girl! that's awesome! I'd say that you're ahead of the game too. It takes a lot of people much longer than just a year to accomplish what you have. YaY!!!!! :0D
Mary's advice is good advice. When I was growing up my mother used to tell me to surround myself with smart women. "They'll keep you on your toes." That too, is good advice. ; )
And you're right. It's only a matter of time.
I've found the same thing. :)
Nice work!!! And, I have no doubt too that, yes, it is only a matter of time and you will be published!!!!
you totally will, and I couldn't agree more with the process! They say no matter what, surround yourself with the kind of people you'd like to be like!
Love this post, Sherrie. You are pursuing your dream and you will accomplish it. I KNOW you will.
Of course it's only a matter of time! I am so happy to have met you and so honored that you are reading my book. Your comments and direction are invaluable. I can't wait to read YOUR book!
Kelly - I'm picturing it!
Sarah - I'm so glad to have met you all :^)
Christy - Thanks!
Suzanne - You have a smart mother :^)
Tara - I'm glad you've had the same experience
Kelly H-Y - Thank you!
PJ - It's been so much fun getting to know everyone
Vivian - Thanks for your inspiration
Glam - The pleasure is all mine :^)
That was really great advice. And congrats to you for doing it!
That's great advice. I've learned so much from the message boards and writer's blogs. Those have introduced me to new author's books, which has increased my knowledge about writing in general. It's a great big learning circle -- :)
Good luck, Sherrie. Like everyone else said, I know you can do it!
It'll come. And it's an incredible world to be part of us, isn't it?
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