Growth isn’t a given

I know three people who proudly proclaim they’ve been published authors for more than 20 years.

This is true but…

One hasn’t written anything new in a decade, another has no idea what rights reversion means and has been polishing the same manuscript for five years, and the third’s former publisher is taking them on a merry ride of foolishness (and they can’t get off because they don’t know how).

Their craft, their business acumen, and their understanding of the publishing landscape hasn’t changed or grown in 20 years. They are the exact same writers they were when they signed their first contract.

In the 20 years that have passed, they haven’t taken the time to learn about contracts, negotiation, copyrights.

They haven’t improved their craft by learning new techniques. (One proudly doesn’t read anymore, don’t get me started…)

They haven’t practiced their craft by continuing to write and publish.

I fear for them because they’re ripe pickings for scammers who will tell them what they want to hear:

That they’re established authors who deserve to be better known.

That they’re talented and their work deserves a larger audience.

That they are established and need someone to help run their business so they can focus soley on writing.

Growth involves mistakes, learning, hills and valleys. It’s not a smooth path. It’s not meant to be. Growth makes you stronger. Sticking around, however, strokes one’s vanity but leaves you weak.

The moment you think you’ve arrived, your potential slowly starts to wither and die. It’s no surprise that all three authors are stagnant in their careers (and don’t know why).

Don’t be like them. Remember to always keep growing, no matter how small.

Growth isn’t a given…it’s a choice.