by Elizabeth S. Craig, @elizabethscraig
The subject of success . . . mostly how to get it . . . is a popular one for writers. When I pulled the word up in the WKB, it had close to 24,000 entries. I remember there was a book that came out a few years ago that delved into the idea that there were similarities, or coding, that distinguished bestselling books.
Having a bestseller is definitely one marker of success. Making a living off of writing is another.
But there are many other markers of success.
Yours may not include publication at all. It might be to start or maintain a writing habit.
It might be to finish a book you started years ago.
It might be to have something to share with family and close friends.
It might be a writing project you keep to yourself, something that is meaningful for your eyes only.
It might be just to experiment and see what it’s possible for you to create.
It might be to heal from a painful time in your life.
The goals for writing are different for every person. And, no matter what your goal is, if you meet it, you’re a success.
How do you view success as a writer?
What Constitutes Success for a Writer? Share on XImage by Daniel Reche from Pixabay
Success for me was just getting one book published. That it did well and I ended up with four more books was a bonus.
That’s a great bonus!
You're so right, Elizabeth! Success looks very different to all of us. I think that's why it's so important not to compare ourselves to one another. It's far better to figure out what our goals are and plan to reach them. Whatever those goals are.
Comparison is a real trap, isn’t it? Excellent point.
For me, successes, reaching, and touching more readers with every book. Luckily, I don’t have to try and do this for money.
The connection with readers is such a gift!
Big sales would be nice, but sometimes it's just getting that book out there into the world and finding readers who love it.
Connecting with readers through our writing is the best!
Having readers ask when your next book is coming out would mean success. Making money is a bonus. ;)
That’s a great indicator of success!
Love this question!
Success has been a moving target for me. At first it was to be brave enough to carve out time and actually put words on screen. Then it was to learn how to revise and edit. Than to be brave enough to actually publish…
For me, writing is a success if I'm having fun and doing the next thing
I like that your definition of success has changed through the years! Having fun is so important.
Thank you for covering this. I do feel like a dud. Having children's stories published in a magazine in the 80's doesn't make me feel accomplished for sure. But I am successful in that I established a daily writing habit years ago. I have hundreds of thousands of words written into stories and first drafts of a few books. I recently finished a Christmas short story because I want my mom to read it while she is still here. I need to self publish it.
You are an awesome cheerleader for writers. Always remember that encouragement is one of your spiritual gifts and so needed.
You’re an anti-dud! You’ve developed an amazing habit and work hard on your writing. Congratulations on the short story–I know your mom will love it!
And thanks so much for the kind words. They are appreciated!
Hi Elizabeth – as far as I'm concerned … when I get appreciative comments. If I was an author I'm sure I'd say if I had readers and they engaged – cheers Hilary
Those are the best!
For me, there are all levels of success. The little daily ones of completing a chapter and the big ones, like making a bestseller list. Some I've made, somoe not. But Ialways have goals.
Celebrating daily successes is a great way to stay motivated!
Great post — and something I needed to read. I’ve been a little down about being “successful” as a writer and wondering if I should keep at it. Glad I stopped by!
I’m glad you stopped by, too! Keep writing!
This was the post I needed to read today! Nice reminder that there are many ways to be successful as an author/
There really are! Thanks for dropping by, Ellen!