Is it just me, or is there just something special about making something with your own two hands? I tend to be very artsy, so now, I can look back and see all of the things I've made--art projects, sketches, paintings, jewelry, tool-boxes, bird-houses, cabinets, pillow-cases, hats... there's so many things!
I find that I'm much better at some of the things then I used to be. Like now, instead of putting plastic beads on a string and tying a knot, I make it with wire, crimp beads, and glass beads--and it looks really good! Of course, I still have a lot of room for improvement, but I'm getting there.
But I don't take pride in it because it looks cool--I take pride in it because it's something I made with my own hands, and how those hands have improved at making things.
In my opinion, it's the same way with writing. I'm not proud of it because sometimes it sounds good, I'm proud of it because it's something that I wrote. And even if it doesn't always end up sounding all that good, I'll stand by it and be proud, because I wrote it.
Just like you should be proud of what you write--not because it might sound good to an agent/other reader (whose opinions can always change), but because you wrote it, and nothing can ever change that.
~Elizabeth
Great post, Elizabeth. Taking pride in what you accomplish single-handedly is very important, especially as writers!
ReplyDeleteYou have no idea how much your words encouraged me when I read them. Lately, I've been caught up in what others would think of my writings, and not fully enjoying it because it's what I love to do! Thanks! -Abby
ReplyDeleteI'm glad this encouraged you!
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