Almost There or Just Beginning?

Sometimes I think I'm almost there. So close.

And sometimes I think I'm only just beginning.

Three years ago, when I completed my first novel, I thought I was almost there. Then I learned about query letters. Six months later when I got my first partial manuscript request, I thought I was almost there. Then I learned about rejection. One year later when I had my first full manuscript request, I thought I was almost there. Then I learned about requested rewrites.

Every time I come to a new corner, I think publication is right around the bend. Then when I find it isn't, I feel lost in the maze. Will I ever get out?

So I'm through thinking that I'm close. I won't tell myself that anymore. I'm going to tell myself that I'm only just beginning.

There's so much to learn. All I want to do is write the very best books that I can. Yes, I care passionately about becoming a published author, but what I care most about is creating the kind of reading experience I love. That isn't measured by publishing contracts.

And when I do hold my first published book in my hands, I will tell myself that I am only

just

beginning.