Today Nathan Bransford talked about how our dreams as writers- or really, whatever we aspire to achieve- can become more like expectations of ourselves. It's like we define our success based on how many followers we have on Twitter, or how many hits we get on our material, and if we get X number of followers and Y number of people pay attention to our online presence, then tada! We're successful. But it shouldn't be that way.
We need to remember why we pursue our passions and our dreams. Why we do the things we do. It's gonna be different for all of us, and there's nothing wrong with that. But whatever that reason is- and I cannot stress this enough- remember it. For goodness' sake, remember it. And don't get caught up in the world's definition of success. Don't let that be your happiness.
OK. I should put the song lyrics in context now. It's called "Finish Last" by Stellar Kart.
I wanna finish lastIt would be fantastic if all our dreams became real. I don't think any of us writerly types would mind someday having our own personal display at Barnes and Noble. ;) But it's fine if that doesn't happen, because at least we have something to be passionate about. To be excited about.
Last in the world's eyes
No matter what I do
I will be first in Your eyes
Do you think that anybody can do what you do? As if. And don't let other people's success get you down! They've gone through the same thing, I guarantee you.
Now get to work, wench.
(I'm a bit tired, so 'scuse me if this didn't make total sense...)
I love this post. Gotta read that link you posted.
ReplyDeleteHope you don't mind that I mention this post in my blog and set a link to it :)
I understand what both you and Jesimarie (she's my daughter, of whom I am very proud!) were saying.
ReplyDeleteShe told me she didn't fell comfortable talking about me so I had to tell her it was cool. I've read Nathan's blog off and of for a couple months now, when I remember to go look that is. I just started my blog about a week ago, so to have right at 60 hits already is nice. But, again, that's more a kudo than anything else. What you and Nathan both say are legitimate points. I like your blog a lot, btw, and I think I'll put a link to it on mine.
Good luck in college! Don't give up.
Gil