Lots of resolutions and goals being bandied about today, but that’s just the first step.
All the things you want to accomplish this year as a screenwriter. What are you doing to make them a reality?
It’s going to take a lot of work. It’ll be frustrating at times, but isn’t this something you’re willing to put yourself through hell for in order to see happen?
Give yourself some goals, but be realistic.
Write. Edit. Rewrite. Polish.
Watch. Analyze.
Read. Study. Learn. Hone.
Network. Connect. Share. Support.
Enter contests. Attend conferences. Pitch.
Research. Query. Reconnect.
Keep trying.
Don’t give up.
Enjoy yourself.
Make 2016 the year you make something happen for you.
The post from earlier this week was all about my excitement about my new story idea. Little did I realize what kind of effect that would have on some readers.
“The enthusiasm oozing from your blog post is contagious. I have a story line that is brewing, too! Thanks for the encouragement here!”
Shucks, folks. I’m speechless. (“Oozing”? “Contagious”? Makes me feel like I require medical attention.)
It kind of reminded me of this post from 2 1/2 years ago.
Those that have been following this blog for a while know what a big proponent I am about networking and supporting those within your network.
I’ve been extremely fortunate to have not only established solid relationships with several writers of considerable talent, but been the fortunate recipient of their advice and guidance in helping me hone my writing skills. In turn, I don’t hesitate when one of them asks me for my two cents about their latest project.
Hard as this might be for some to believe, being nice to people actually has its benefits, and isn’t that difficult.
Or is it?
As has been well documented here, I’ve had several online encounters with those who make comments of an overly negative nature (which, a majority of the time, don’t include anything that actually helps).
It truly amazes me when somebody I’ve never met, and most likely never will meet, has no problem spitting out harsh and condescending answers to what are generally simple questions, or somebody just seeking some helpful insight or advice.
Whatever their reason, what exactly is the point of acting like this? If anything, it makes me want to avoid you at all costs. I’m already doing a bang-up job being full of self-doubt. I don’t need your help.
I strive to be the opposite of that, and help people out when I can. It’s in my nature.
And if you’re reading this, I sincerely hope it’s in yours as well.
“Working on the rewrite while I wait to hear from that manager. How about you guys?”
Despite the fact that writing, for the most part, is a solitary activity, a lot of us take great pleasure in being connected with other writers.
They can be the invaluable support, guidance and motivation we sometimes need to give us that little extra boost. Having a problem and being able to tap into this kind of resource in order to find a solution is priceless.
We get access to all the goings-on, good and bad, that happen among us and our peers.
While I’ve seen my fair share of both, I’m glad to say that a majority have been of a positive nature. This person got a manager. That person finished their latest draft. That other person began working with another writer on a new project. I’m thrilled for all of these developments, and offer up congratulations and words of encouragement. Each and every one of these people has worked hard to reach this particular milestone.
I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t jealous. That sense of longing and wondering “Will I eventually/ever get to announce some good news of my own?” keeps nagging at me, so I continue to buckle down and redouble my efforts in the hopes of making it happen a little sooner. Some days it’s really tough to be patient.
On the other side of the coin are the not-so-great things. This person’s script got a pass from a high-profile agent. That person is suffering from a severe case of writer’s block (or worse – depression). That other person is going through some tough things in their personal life. These also happen to a lot of us, resulting in messages of sympathy, understanding and moral support.
I’ve experienced this too. When times are tough, you find out who’s really in your corner, and are glad to know it.
But I wouldn’t have any of this kind of support if I hadn’t sought it out. There’s a reason it’s called “social” media. I’ve been able to connect with so many awesome people because of what I’ve read or seen about them online.
Is there a writer (professional or peer) whose work you enjoy? Someone whose tweets always make you chuckle? Send ’em a note telling them that.
Even better – are they in your area? When I learn about a local writer, I’ll offer up the opportunity for a face-to-face chat over coffee or lunch. I’ve also done this with folks just visiting the Bay Area. This has resulted in some great ongoing working relationships.
Everybody’s career advances at its own pace, and all the fantastic help and support we get on days good and bad are major pluses. Many writers are introverts at heart, but you have to make the effort to put yourself out there and get to know somebody.
It gets easier the more you do it, and you’ll be glad you did.
Maximum Z 