Goal: getting a book published.
Therefore success = getting a book published.
Simple, right?
But who knew? Turns out there’s more to the equation.
When I broke down my goal even further, I looked at why I wanted to be published: to inspire or engage a reader–to make him/her feel–the way my favourite authors have inspired and engaged and made me feel. I always wanted to make an impact—even if on only one reader.
I never imagined I’d succeed (making an impact on at least one reader)–all because of an answer I wrote to one question on a book coach’s Q&A.
As you know, I’m now working with book coach Jennie Nash. She asked me to fill out a questionnaire to help her better understand me as a writer. The question about my goals got me thinking, so I added to my answer: “To model for my kids what it means to pursue a dream (hard work, frustration, failure, perseverance, etc.)”
Because, I realized, I’m going to be at this for a long time before I get that elusive publishing deal. It made me reconsider my priorities, made me recognize the value of what I do every day–the process–even if the product is but a starry glint in my eye.
I sent off my answers and in reply, Jennie gave me an thrilling response.
“LOVING THAT LAST ONE OMG. I AM ADDING THIS TO MY LIST [on her questionnaire]! AND WRITING A BLOG POST ABOUT IT!!”
She did! Inspired by my comment! Here’s the link to Jennie’s post. Check it out!
I’m not going to stop working toward getting published, but it’s heartening to know that the publishing milestone will only be building on my current success 🙂