It Takes a Village

Source: trekearth.com

We’ve all heard the saying that it takes a village to raise a child. I think it’s the same for writers.

It takes a village of people to help us cope with the trials and tribulations of being a writer. Last week I talked about how my husband helps me endure this business. But I think it takes several people to keep you going and growing with your writing. People play different roles and I’ll share the three that I think is important.

The Point Person–Your point person is just that–the person that keeps you on point. The point person is also the one that you trust to read your manuscript (more on that soon), the first one that you call when you are having a problem with your book. This person has to be an avid reader so they can be able to distinct what’s good and what’s bad in your novel.

The Cheerleader–The cheerleader hypes up your spirit. They’re the one you call when you want to give up, when you just want to throw your hands up in the air and say, “I’m done!” They always know what to say to lift your mood and they have your back when you’re feeling down.  They root for you no matter how terrrible your book is–they believe in you.

The Realistic–The realistic is the person that brings your mind out of the clouds. They’re the ones who tell you that your book probably won’t be on the New York Times List, that Oprah won’t pick your book for her book club, and that you won’t be seen on the Today show. They remind you that a seven figure advance won’t be coming your way and that you should be grateful that you are a published author. This person can come across as a Debbie Downer, but remember they aren’t telling you that you can’t write–they’re just reminding you to stay realistic so you don’t get disappointed.

I feel very fortunate that I have all these people in my life that I can call when the going gets rough. Tell me, who do you call when you need a little pick-me-up?