I wrote this years ago and still need to hear it. I hope it also encourages you.
When there’s enthusiasm for your book
before it meets the world,
hold it loosely.
When there’s only silence,
take the long view.
When your book gets great reviews,
hold it loosely.
When it feels like everything said is unkind,
take the long view.
When your book makes a splash,
hold it loosely,
When it’s quickly forgotten,
take the long view.
When your book makes lists or wins awards,
hold it loosely.
When your book has nothing
attached to its name,
take the long view.
When you receive praise
and are treated as someone special,
hold it loosely.
Don’t believe you’re any more important
than others doing the same hard work.
When you feel unnoticed,
take the long view.
Don’t believe you’re any less important
than others doing the same hard work.
When you joyfully lose yourself in your writing,
when a reader connects with your story,
remember: this is the gift.
* A special thank you to Melanie Crowder, who recently reminded me of the importance of the long view in the author’s life.
