Start On The Next One
I’ve been writing for years. I’ve had much devotional material printed, children’s stories, even non-fiction in Ranger Rick, and church curriculum for children and even books. I love the process and found payment was a bonus!
When I finally had my first book published in 2010 (those before were puzzle books) I was elated. I had worked for years on the project and was pleased and relieved the project was finished. I used social networks, had a countdown on face book, sent out little cards and planned book signings. Then there was the release date. I watched online, as the sites that carried the book, posted availability and was delighted it was doing well.
I had one friend however, who kept asking a question I couldn’t answer and wasn’t sure I wanted to! “How’s it doing?” he would ask. “How many have you sold? What are your royalties?” And many other questions along the same vein. I was absolutely interested, don’t misunderstand, but that isn’t why I wrote the book!
Another author shares his story about his efforts of writing a book over a year period, had it published and then nothing happened. His mentor didn’t even seem particularly excited. In fact, his reaction was simply, “Get started on your next one, tomorrow!”
I like his perspective. Sometimes we focus on the revenue, fame, and great reviews, and lose sight of what is important! Every project on which we work must have value, but it’s the next one that drives us on. This isn’t just true for writers; it’s true for any kind of work. It doesn’t matter if you are a bricklayer, Minister or Congressman, or anything in between. The drive to accomplish something positive is the fundamental motivation to keep us to the task.
When we lose the interest or passion for what we are doing, we lose productivity. It takes this ultimate mindset to move forward. Sometimes we lose sight of our goals; life events changing over which we have no control; being asked to compromise our ethics; growing older and retirement or any variety of circumstances that drag us away from what we once thought important.
As our lives change, sometimes our perspective must also change. We have to remember the reason we took the path we chose and then decide if it’s still the right path. If it isn’t and we find ourselves dreading the challenge of the day before us as a chore, then maybe it’s time to take stock. Maybe it’s time to “get started on the next one!”
Nothing stays the same in our world; and today’s world seems even more formidable given the COVID issues, the upcoming election and political arena, climate changes, financial woes and more! Changes occur in our lives sometimes so fast we miss them. I suggest taking a breath and asking yourself some very serious questions. Are you where you want to be? Are your goals still attainable, have you reached them and need to make new ones, or are you needing something completely different?
Once you decide where you want to be, whether it is right where you are or with something new, approach it with excitement, with interest and a passion which fulfills your day. This attitude will aid in making the work you do worthwhile and gives you a reason to continue being productive. Go ahead! Get started on the next one, whether it’s another manuscript, another day at the office, applying mortar to a brick or anything in between!