Introduction – The Power of Determination

Determination
J.K. Rowling said in an interview with Oprah, that from the age of six all she ever wanted to do was to write. She wrote through all her school years, and into her early twenties. There were many periods of frustration where her words were not appreciated – until she had that mammoth success with her first Harry Potter novel, The Philosophers Stone. Thereafter, there were another twelve mega-releases. When asked by Oprah, “What is the likely reason for your success?” Rowling answered, “Even from an early age I believed that I would be a successful writer. I believed I could write a good story, and never gave up, so I didn’t.”

Passion Fuels Creativity

Elizabeth Gilbert goes on to say, “I don’t know how to write a best seller, especially on demand.” And, John Boyne said, “When you feel passionate about the work, then it is likely to be interesting.” You need to pick a story that you are passionate about, otherwise you are not likely to produce your best work and your readers will know it. Also consider that you and the story will be teammates for a long time, and so you should strive to become the best of mates.

Overcoming Fear and Owning the Work

Part of that journey is to ‘own the work.’ Most new writers are fearful when their work is about to make an entrance. It crawls to the surface for a myriad of reasons. I well remember the panic I felt when my first book (a self-help book) was about to emerge. I had the none-too-helpful thoughts such as – hell no, people are going to see my exposed thoughts Or, what if the market doesn’t like my work?” Or worse, Will I be ridiculed? The panic escalated when I thought of close friends and associates scrutinising the regurgitations of my mind. It is the same when I consider people reading my early work – it was not very good. I cringe. Yet, there is no reason to do so, as that time was my apprenticeship. But we writers do not stop and continue regardless. Trust yourself. You will you be okay.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Writers

• Believe in your success from the outset.

• Choose stories you’re genuinely passionate about.

• Accept fear as part of the creative process and keep writing.

Conclusion – Embrace Determination and Write On

With unwavering determination, passionate storytelling, and the courage to own your work, you set the stage for writing success—just like the authors who inspire us.

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