So, today I was thinking about the support that I have where my writing is concerned. I have a lot of people in my life who care about me and support my writing "habit" because they love me and want to encourage me: my parents, my husband, best friend, friends, etc.
I'm lucky enough to have all of that support and encouragement during all of my ups and downs, streaks of self-consciousness, bouts of sheer joy...but I also have something super special; I have a cheerleader.
My cheerleader is my cousin, Leslie. She is my Alpha reader; she is my first editor, she is my biggest fan. She bolsters me when I need it; she's enthusiastic and realistic at the same time. She doesn't sugar coat anything, and she gives me what I need when I need it.
I also have my agent; my second cheerleader. I knew that I needed to find a second Leslie in the agenting world and I have. Alisha really believes in me and I am grateful for that.
Every writer needs a cheerleader. Do you have that special someone who keeps you writing? Someone who gives you the strength and support that you need in this crazy world of writing? Who is your cheerleader?
I have a lot of cheerleaders actually. One of my first readers and a constant cheerleader is my friend, Michelle. She isn't a writer, but she has no problem at all telling me what's wrong with my novels. Then in the next breath, she'll ask when I'll be finished with the next one.
ReplyDeleteMy beta reader and many in my crit group are huge cheerleaders as well. When I make comments like "if I get an agent" or "if the book ever sells", they are right there with a "WHEN!"or an "it's only a matter of time" or a "you ARE that good". They've got my back at all times, and I don't know what I'd do without them.
And that right there is why, no matter how short their skirts are, you should never dis cheerleaders ;-)
My biggest cheerleader is my dear friend Lori, a successful writer who gives me great and positive advice on my work. The Viking always roots for me, though he doesn't read my stuff, and my daughter cheers me on too. A new friend, Rona, is also supportive.
ReplyDeleteMy cheerleaders present: my crit partners, husband, friends.
ReplyDeleteCheerleader in spirit: my mom, who always believed.