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Writing Career Growth Is Always Uncomfortable

One reason writers come to me for classes and coaching is that writing career growth is inevitably uncomfortable.

We think, at the outset, that our writing career is going to make us over-the-moon happy. But this is a myth.

Those over-the-moon moments come and go. You should have some once in a while, but they are not the constant.

I think veteran writers with multiple published books under their belts probably have achieved an element of satisfaction that eludes writers on the rise.

And when I say “multiple,” I mean about ten books. I had to write three traditionally published books to get happy but one of them is about writing career satisfaction, so that’s probably how I got here a few books sooner.

So, if you are crabby or upset or anxious today, writer, then congratulations, because you are probably growing.

If you feel stumped or challenged, I think that’s great.

If you are frustrated to the point of tears or total exasperation, then wow, you must really be taking risks and stretching yourself. Good for you!

The bottom line is that growth is difficult. Be careful who you turn to at moments of complete frustration. You don’t need someone to stroke your ego or baby you. You need someone who will encourage you to face the frustration, learn what you need to learn from it, and move on to the next thing you need to do.

I am used to working with frustrated writers because frustration is the norm.

And if you’re not frustrated, then maybe you are not stretching yourself enough.

The whips start cracking around here on September 5th. I will be helping writers take their work to the next level. No egos will be stroked. No baloney will be indulged. And lots of excellent work will get accomplished. Because that’s what I’m all about.

And if this appeals to your itch to succeed, then I hope you will check out my latest book and my fall classes.

~ Photo by Candie_N

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  • Lynn August 24, 2012, 4:09 am

    Thanks for your articles- a question I had about getting stretched and frustrated: Is it okay not to answer every question of the novel if it isn’t that big of deal? One reader I have wants to know even more everytime new info comes out in the plot- Ex Visting mom’s new house with new husband (you know both their jobs) Do you really have to come out and say “They bought the house together” Isn’t ok to let the reader assume things- especially when the rest of the book is in a different country?

  • christinakatz August 24, 2012, 11:17 am

    I would say that as a novelist, your job is to support the story. So whatever is relevant to the story probably needs to be revealed if it adds meaning. If it doesn’t add anything the reader needs to know, then I think it’s okay to leave it out.