Does this sound familiar?
You're about to go to bed, but you decide to check your email one more time to see if the agent you queried has responded.
Nope.
It's okay, you rally your sprits, there's still hope. Just for kicks, you check out Twitter...and there it is.
Someone has just signed a three book deal *gasp* at auction.
Someone who isn't you.
You scroll down your Twitter feed a bit more, and wowzers, someone has been nominated for a book award in your genre.
Someone who isn't you.
And then—and this is the killer—someone announces a movie deal.
Someone who isn't...okay, I think you know where I'm going with this. You lean back from the computer and swallow your tears whispering, "Why not me?"
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But that's okay. Jealousy is normal. It means you're still hungry for your dream, and that you're willing to keep working at it because you think about it every day. Still, you don't want to crumble every time you read your Twitter feed, so...
How can you deal with jealousy?
First: Forgive yourself for wishing it was you making that announcement. Wishing is awesome! You're hopeful! You still have that burning desire...keep that shit lit, man.
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Second: Take a break from social media to concentrate on other awesome aspects of your world; like dancing in the kitchen, eating Lucky Charms for supper, and how your friends will always have your back and bring you chicken soup when you're sick.
Writing is part of your life, but it shouldn't be your ENTIRE life.
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Third: Now that you've connected with the other things in your daily life that bring you happiness think about the news on Twitter that made you feel jealous; a major book deal, an award nomination, a movie adaptation.
These announcements should always be celebrated because the writer has probably worked their fingertips to the bone for years and had their heart broken a thousand times to make this happen. Plus, all of these accomplishments benefit the publishing industry.
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Fourth: After you've counted your blessings and realized that good news for one author is good news for ALL writers, get back on social media. Send a big congratulations to the people who are basking in their happy news. Everyone loves a big party and the writing community is outstanding at supporting one another. So remember...
Success by others in this industry doesn't diminish your chances, it increases them.
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I hope this helps you on your own writing journey. Positive thoughts and high word counts, my friends.
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1 comment:
Oh I struggle with this every day. I love your perspective. Thank you for sharing. N
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