The custom framing was worth the price to remind me I need to continue this writing journey.
The writer’s life is a rollercoaster of emotions. We are on a high when our book gets published. A low when our sales are down, or we get a one-star review. We worry our next book won’t be as good as our last. We fear rejects and being a one hit wonder. Anxiety overwhelms us with marketing and putting ourselves out there.
Reminders
We all need to wrap ourselves in positive reminders. For me, it was custom framing my Serious Writer 1st place for Fiction Award. It’s not the Selah, Carol or Christy but I’m still pleased with it and it’s reminder, I am a writer. I’ll look at it and be encouraged. I’ve framed other award certificates as reminders. But I need to hang them on the wall. Yes, I’ll admit it, they aren’t hanging in my office. (Sliding them in a drawer or a folder because they aren’t 1st place or have no trophy or medal connect with them is pointless.) All of these awards need a place of visual prominence. As a group they’ll inspire me to go for the gold in the future.
Atta girls
I love seeing 5-star reviews. I don’t read the 1-star reviews because they only instill doubt. Atta girls and compliments on my social media from fans and fellow-writers are so appreciated. Often I see them when my heart is in a dark place and words aren’t coming.
When people respond in the comment section on my blog, it’s encouraging. I need to know the time it takes to write these posts has value to my readers.
It’s human nature
I believe most writers feel the same. If they say they don’t need accolades and don’t care what other think about their writing then they must do it for a hobby or they are lying. It’s human nature to want praise.
Praise is not a daily thing. Neither are 5-star reviews or awards. But having proof of my accomplishments in a place to view when my heart feels heavy over some aspect of my writing career helps. I’m reminded I can do this.
I lift my heart
For me the reminder causes me to take another step to bring me out of a negative place. I thank God for the gift of words he’s given me. I pray for his peace and confidence and seek his direction for my next project. And I thank him for the lovely encouragement he bestowed on me through these awards.
What visual aid keeps you focused on your goal to complete your next writing project?
Up to now, my visual aids have been quotations taped to my PC monitor. However, now that my first book is reality, just looking at its cover inspires me to press in and write more to glorify God. Congrats on your first place award, Cindy. That truly is golden (pun intended)!
Quotes and inspiring photos are wonderful visuals. Book covers are great reminders. Every time I look at mine I’m still a bit awed.
Agreed we all need encouragement.
At this stage in my writing, I use vision boards. And my rolltop desk.