I've been in sales and marketing in some form or another most of my adult life. I've learned a lot from motivational speakers on selling but I've discovered that a lot of what I've been taught can also apply to writing which I would like to pass along now.
1. You Can't Please Everyone - No matter how good a salesperson you are or a writer, not everyone will like your work. Expect rejections they are a part of work. What is important is to do your best. Don't compromise your ethics. Only listen to objective criticism that builds you up and doesn't tear you down.
2. Get Rid of "Stinking Thinking" - Not everyone can be #1 but it doesn't mean that you still can't thrive & survive in writing. Remember, your beliefs create your reality. If you think you can't be successful, you won't be. But remember, it does take work. No one becomes a success by just dreaming about it. You need to act on it and be persistent.
4. Stop Criticizing Yourself - When you beat yourself up, you will lower your self-esteem and feel empty. Think to the future and not your past failures. Remember what Scarlet O'Hara said, "After all tomorrow is another day." A new day is always a fresh start to begin again.
5. You are Unique and Something to Celebrate - Take time to stop and appreciate all the good and positive things you do both in and out of work. Get out of your inner shell and be of service to others. This will spark your energy level and open up your creativity.
6. Change the Channel - When those rejections come, don't wallow in them. Find something that will bring back your positive spirit - whether it's listening to some inspirational music, reading a devotional, or going for a walk or run.
Lastly, here's the lyrics by Johnny Diaz about being you as a positive thought...
There could never be a more beautiful you
Don't buy the lies disguises and hoops they make you jump through
You were made to fill a purpose that only you could do
So there could never be a more beautiful you
There could never be, a more beautiful you.
If you are not familiar with the song and would like to see the video click here
Great post and tips, Chris. I struggle with #4 more than any of the others on your list. People don't realize the power of their words - parents who constantly discourage a child's dreams or criticize a child's choices have a strong negative influence on that child's sense of self. Although the intentions may be to protect and direct, more often the results are damaging. Because of things I internalized in my youth, I still fight to believe in my value as a person and a writer. If it weren't for the encouragement of brothers and sisters in ink like you, I probably never would have published Chantal's Call.
ReplyDeleteExcellent song quote at the end - I love that lyric. The only hoops I ever want to jump through are my hula hoops. ;)
May you keep on jumping through those hoops!
DeleteThis is a great beginning for October's CWBC Discovery theme. Your words are a good reminder to me as I often struggle with self-doubt. Thank you, Chris.
ReplyDeleteWho alive doesn't struggle from self-doubt? We just have to keep our focus on what is true.
DeleteI agree with the others and I loved the re-definition of success. It really is about doing what God has called us to do, regardless of whether it's impressive or moneymaking or award-worthy or if anyone else in the world knows what we're doing. That and the fact that you can't please everyone---great lessons, especially for writers who by their very nature must become vulnerable in order to share their work.
ReplyDeleteBut at times it's hard to become vulnerable in the face of rejection, isn't it?
DeleteReally great advice, Chris. I'm at a point where I'm rethinking success. It's hard to give up part of a dream but sometimes the dream is too far from reality. I appreciated your post very much!
ReplyDeleteThanks Chris - excellent post and advice to start the month.
ReplyDeleteExcellent thoughts on 'discovering' yourself as a writer. I especially like the first one because this is so true about any aspect of life. You will not be able to please everyone, so you might as well just settle that right now and move on, keeping your eyes focused on what matters.
ReplyDeleteExcellent advice Chris. Writing is a road to discovery of who we are and if we are willing to step beyond perceived boundaries. I think it is important to set goals and review them often. My definition of success is "Trust God - Go Forward" That's the pep talk I use on myself, when I lose focus. Peace and Blessings
ReplyDeleteGreat post, Chris! And the lyrics of that song really spoke to my heart. Thanks so much for sharing this.
ReplyDelete