Finding Small Joys and Snapshots in the Writing Journey
By Marilyn Nutter A book contract. Our title on the New York Times Best Sellers’ List. First Place in a writing contest. Many writers have those achievements on their hopes-and-dreams list. Maybe some write those as a goal. Some may be met, but many aren’t. What then? "Many people lose the small joys in the hope for the big happiness," has been attributed to Pearl S. Buck. She reminds us that focusing and pursuing grand goals may lead us to overlook and not appreciate everyday pleasures. In the case of writers, we sometimes look at smaller efforts and achievements as “less than” accomplishments. Like a consolation prize or being selected runner-up. We tried, but we didn’t make it. Goals give direction and are important. Dreams fuel our interests and work, but what if we consider the smaller snapshots: · Brainstorming with a fellow writer who’s stuck and can’t seem to come up with a slant for a book or article, but, collectivel...
