Over the last week, there has been a lot of discussion on the excellent Self-Publishing forum about self-publishers who, after laboring in the publishing vineyards for a couple of years, have yet to produce a vat of profitable literary wine. They’re discouraged and now wonder how they can get the necessary motivation to continue.
I have three observations about this dilemma:
©1995 Walter P Shiel. All Right Reserved.
FIRST…
If you are the type who is not self-motivated and really needs external motivation, you’re probably in the wrong business. In fact, you’re probably not cut out for writing or publishing or, for that matter, most any other small business or entrepreneurship.
SECOND…
We all run up against the proverbial brick wall now and again. We all get discouraged from time to time. The difference between those who fail and those who succeed is perseverance and a willingness to take stock (briefly, don’t dwell on it to the point of paralysis) and change course as needed. All the talent in the world is useless if you can’t find the internal motivation to persevere against the odds that sometimes seem insurmountable. Don’t agonize. Just get on with it.
THIRD…
By all means, ask for advice and lessons-learned from your peers in the business. But don’t expect them to conjure up the magic elixir that will fuel your own motivation or wave the magic wand to create success for you. Remember, for 99% of us, writing and self-publishing success is at the end of a long and sometimes grueling marathon, not the victory lap at the end of a sprint. You might want to read my blog post Flash in the Pan or Endurance.
BOTTOM LINE…
If you’re not self-motivated, do something about it. Just don’t expect somebody else to do it for you. Even hiring an expensive marketing or promotion outfit won’t solve your own internal motivation problems.
Miracles happen. Just don’t bank on them…or, at least, not on their timing.
When I worked at Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, we used to (jokingly) say that we built optimistic schedules that included, at the crucial point, the milestone “A Miracle Occurs.”
Humorous, but I wouldn’t plan that way for my own business.
So, are you self-motivated…or chronically discouraged?
Publishing is not for the faint of heart! It takes a thick skin, persistence, and a lot of time and effort. Most don’t understand the work involved. Or that true motivation must come from within.
Diane, you’re absolutely right about that. I’ve had people work for me who needed external motivation (beyond just getting that paycheck), and they’re the ones who should not try to start their own business. As you say, not for the faint of heart!
1. Consequences – Never use threats. They’ll turn people against you. But making people aware of the negative consequences of not getting results (for everyone involved) can have a big impact. This one is also big for self motivation. If you don’t get your act together, will you ever get what you want?
Absolutely correct. Thanks for stopping by!
What was your catalyst for becoming a writer? Is it something you thought about every day?