Have you ever had a moment that affected your writing trajectory so profoundly, it could change your life? A few years ago, I was sitting in the audience of a panel discussion when I heard three words that shifted my perspective–for good.
It was at the West Virginia Writers Conference and, among other fantastic writers, R.G. Yoho was on the publishing panel. I try to take copious notes at these events, but I didn’t need to for his final words — they’ve stuck with me ever since!
He writes Westerns, and I don’t know anything about Westerns. So I listened with interest as he started reciting some statistics. He said he’s heard that because the genre is small, the odds for a new writer to make a living are ridiculously low.
And then he said the words.
“Why not me?”
I’m telling you, the tears welled up instantaneously. The question, so simple but so electric, went straight to the hearts of the audience of dreamers. “I figured, somebody was doing it. So, why not me?” he repeated, and shrugged.
I’ll never forget it. I wanted to whoop and holler and throw my fist in the air. (Instead, I just clapped too loudly at the end.)
Listen to other authors–it might change your life, your writing, and your direction!
Today, if you’re wondering why you keep plugging away at your creative pursuits — if you feel like giving up — remember R.G.’s words.
Why not you?
Someone else is living the life you’ve been dreaming about. Why? Is anyone else going to work harder for your dream? No! Is anyone else more talented? (They’ll probably tell you no!) Did they catch a lucky break? Okay, maybe, but you know what? I’ll bet it was because they invested the time, put in the practice, and showed up day after day to catch that so-called lucky break. (Try googling “20-yr overnight success” and see how many names you recognize on that list!…)
Now, here’s the sting. Why not me? Does someone else want it more than me? Ouchie. I had to make some sacrifices, but also allow myself some grace. My spiritual health, my marriage, my family all come first. I had to acknowledge that and carve up my time accordingly, but you know what comes after those most important parts of my life? Not dishes, not laundry, not pulling weeds that just grow back — NO! I’m livin’ the dream. Butt in chair, picking out my 500 words a day.
Even now, when I lose sight of my motivation, I remember Yoho’s words and head for the chair:
Why not me?
NOW YOU: Have you heard a quote that had the power to change your life or your writing? Share it!
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V
Love this! Gives me goosebumps meditating evenfor a moment on three little words. Why not me? Thanks for sharing!
Cole Smith
It did me, too! When I mentioned it later to RG Yoho, he was surprised it affected us so much. But this has been my most popular post so far, so I know his words are resonating with many of us. Thanks for saying hello!
Teya | tlmblog
Its crazy how powerful those words are! They light a fire inside simply demanding, why not me?? Thanks for sharing! Love the encouragement!
Cole Smith
Yes! So important to have accountabilibuddies who challenge *and* inspire us! Thanks for reaching out!