If you thought no one believed in you as a writer, would you keep writing ? Some of us automatically shout, “Yes! Of course!” But would you–really?
Today, an editor showed me that no matter whether I can sell another novel, she believes in me as a writer. It felt heavenly good. If I thought nobody cared about me as a writer or thought I had something valuable to say, I don’t know if I could have stuck with the writing apprenticeship, especially the hard parts. Years of rejection notices, almost-sales, and isolation can take a toll on any writer.
Writing Tip for Today:
What keeps a writer going when:

• Someone with far less skill easily grabs what we’ve worked years to attain?
• We toil in isolation for days, weeks, months, then spot our great original idea on the best seller table?
• We finally do succeed but receive no recognition?

My opinion is that every writer needs someone to believe in them. Whether it’s a “jury of twelve ideal readers,” a writing teacher, mentor or another writer, we all need encouragement from time to time. Encouragement is not the same as false praise, cheering on our every word as if we were just learning the ABCs. Nor is it a mutual admiration society. As a writer you need someone who can set you straight when your writing needs work, who challenges you to stretch your skills to new levels, who takes the position that you can do it. Above all, this encourager should be someone whose own writing or taste in writing you admire or aspire to yourself. Who in your life believes in you as a writer? Could you become the encourager for another writer? Either way, it’s heavenly good.

For those of you who can’t get enough of me, Kay Marshall Strom posted an interview on her blog, Kay’s Words at: http://www.kaystrom.wordpress.com/. Check it out!