In my humble opinion—never!
My writing buddy, Vonda Skelton, is fond of reminding me it only took me 13 years to become an overnight success.
Now I use the word success as a term of comparison, not ultimate destination. But yesterday was a major milestone for me, it was the day my first print book hit the shelves.
This book is the book of my heart—and one I never dreamed I’d write.
When I began my writing career, my youngest son was three and my oldest still in grade school. As a responsible parent, I had their future at least partially planned.
They’d all excel in school. Then they’d choose a major and spend four years in college, where they’d each meet the girl of their dreams, get married and start a family.
God had another path…
Our oldest son chose the Marine Corps instead of college and the journey began.
The writing years between grade school and today held plenty of ups and down (Vonda, quit laughing, sometimes understatement is appropriate). And many times I was close to throwing in the towel. So why didn’t I? I have to admit, a lot of it had to do with just plain ole hard headedness. But it was also made up of other things. Here are just a few that kept me going.
- When I got discouraged, I always returned to the last thing I felt like God had told me. I camped out there until I had clear direction.
- I stayed active in the industry. By staying visible, I inadvertently created a situation of accountability. I really didn’t want to face telling all those people I was quitting.
- I developed a small group of friends who wanted to become full-time writers as much as I did. Our group provided each other the support and commiseration successful writers so desperately need.
Today, with the perspective of time and distance, I can state unequivocally that sticking with it was well worth the effort. I challenge you to stay the course, find a band of fellow travelers and get ready for the ride of your life!
So what’s your story? How do you keep going when quitting seems like an option?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie
