Two weeks ago, we started discussing the writer's journey. I likened it to climbing up the side of a Colorado mountain. In my case, I had started on a path that began easily then got more difficult the longer I climbed.
I believe that the uphill climb is similar to writing.
I have a theory when it comes to pursuing publication: I believe that every writer can have a satisfying writing journey by following five guideposts along their way.
The first guidepost we discussed was the STOP sign and the significance of why you needed to stop before you began. Read that post here.
The second guidepost was the ONE WAY sign, which discussed the importance of commitment. Read that post here.
This week's guidepost is the WINDING ROAD sign.
Prepare yourself, it won’t be a simple path. There are twists and turns that will take your breath away. But, you will survive!
Tricia Goyer, a multi-published author of fiction and non-fiction, responded on the ACFW loop to a writer who expressed discouragement.
Here’s part of what she said, “I've been where you've been, friend. Publishing can be so hard at times. I remember YEARS of coming "this close" to having a book published. I had projects go to committee but not get picked up. Once I had an offer for a multiple book contract ... and then the publisher changed direction and the offer was retracted a few weeks later. More than once I felt ready to give up.”
Years ago, I came to a point when I had gone to my share of conferences. I had learned my craft, I believed I was ready for publication. I met with agents and editors, and they expressed enthusiasm for my story. I couldn’t wait to go home send out my requested proposals. Then came the waiting. And bit by bit, I received encouraging rejection letters.
Yes, they were rejection letters, but they were encouraging nonetheless. They helped me to stay focused, continue to work toward publication, and continue to work to improve my writing. In time I had my first publishing contract and was working with an agent.
The winding road is part of the journey. Sure, we all dream of being an overnight success, but that's not the way things turn out for 99% of us. So, prepare yourself for the winding road. The good news is that if you persist, keep learning, and keep writing, you'll eventually get to where you want to be.
Remember: The secret of becoming a writer is to write, write and keep on writing. ~Ken MacLeod
Don't discount God from your situation. If you've sought His will and have discerned that He wants you to continue on this journey, then keep moving forward—despite the (long and) winding road. Keep tuned into His voice, seek His guidance.
Next week, the guidepost we'll discuss is SPEED BUMP AHEAD. Yeah, good times.