I’m swamped under with work right now, but I’ve let this blog sit idle for too long…so I’m going to do a quick post on something that, sadly, I encounter often…the lack of humility.
I’m a big believer in being confident about what you believe in, what you do, and yourself in general. That being said, in any artistic industry there are those that understand the difference between confidence and pomposity, and those who don’t.
You know who I’m talking about..
The writers (published or not) that bash other writers, agents, publishers, whomever…in blogs and public forums, on social media and on websites. Authors that purvey a sense of superiority and entitlement.
The ones that make you cringe with their self importance.
Let me be abundantly clear, being a writer is a wonderful occupation. I have the utmost respect for writers.
Writing as a career is a culmination of hard work, dedication, and dreams.
It’s not easily attainable and society does hold published authors in high regard. It’s like reaching a Holy Grail of sorts, and a fantastic accomplishment…..
However….
Let’s go back to the important word in that paragraph. Occupation. Yes, it’s an occupation, a career, a way to make a living for the few that can reach that level. It’s a job. Are you reading me here?
Any career takes a certain amount of fortitude, dedication and sweat. Let’s use the medical profession as an example; any career in medicine requires additional education, lots of studying, and hard work. I have a great respect for people who work in medicine, it’s something I could never do, I’d be an emotional wreck. When I have had to see a doctor, or physical therapist, or take my daughter to a pediatrician, I want to see the best one available. I also want someone who is kind, humble, and approachable.
That is key.
If that crucial component is missing, you can bet I will never return.
Image matters, personality and goodness of heart matters.
Humility and relatability matter.
Capisce’ ?
So why should it be any different for writers? Truthfully, it’s not. If a writer is not in touch with humility, they simply won’t have continued success. In cases of unpublished writers, that are being shopped by an agent, unless they posses some modesty and redeeming qualities in their personalities, they probably won’t publish a second book.
I’ve worked with a wide range of authors.. some who have had one published novel that sold 5000 or so copies all the way up to authors that have had 8 NYTimes bestsellers.
The common denominator in success that I have observed?
They never let it go to their head.
Ever.
They never stopped being kind, relating to their fans and authors of other books or genres, they always strive for improvement, and they always, always did their absolute best to be easy to work with.
The publishing houses hold this last item in particularly high regard.
If you’re not easy to work with, or you burn bridges at the drop of a hat, or you’re convinced that you are “better” than anyone else in your chosen field, they won’t want to work with you. Period.
Your reputation and image are whatever you make them. Maybe you ARE the best at what you do, but perhaps that is a fact that should be kept inside your head. Project confidence, but remember where you started. Write from the heart, and demonstrate genius, but respect the genius in other writers around you.
It’s a simple concept, and if employed correctly, it pushes sales, future books, and all sorts of opportunities. It also keeps you grounded and happy and sought after.
That should be reason enough to be humble, yes?
A contented, giving, humble and open persona invites success. Your character is your fate.
You may be remembered for your brilliance, but strive to be loved and revered for your goodness.
