YES, THAT SUCCESS COUNTS

I often find myself arguing with students and friends who have a whole litany of reasons why their various successes “don’t count.” These folks always have a persuasive story about how they could have done better—published in a more reputable magazine or presented to a more prestigious crowd. Of course, there are always opportunities to do better. And in my experience, the most efficient way to approach those opportunities is by being grateful for what we are accomplishing right now. And understanding that we build slowly over time toward achieving our big goals with one tangible foothold at a time.

The truth is that no matter what your level of expertise and experience may be, chances are that there’s someone out there that knows more than you and someone who knows less. And no matter where your writing life takes you, this will always be true.

So why not just relax, put that notch in your belt, a clip in your scrapbook file, a link in your blog or whatever you need to do to celebrate each and every opportunity and honor that comes your way? Don’t berate the people admiring you (or berate yourself) if your current audience is not the Pulitzer Prize committee. We all have to start somewhere. I propose that you start by giving yourself permission to appreciate the success you have created, no matter how insignificant you might believe it to be. Right now. I know you can.

Transforming fear to courage: Tip #1
Transforming fear to courage: Tip #2
Transforming fear to courage: Tip #3
Transforming fear to courage: Tip #4
Transforming fear to courage: Tip #5