Quote of the Day: The best way to predict your future is to create it. Abraham Lincoln
The future depends on what we do in the present. Mahatma Gandhi
Today is the first Wednesday of the Month where dozens of bloggers share their insecurities and offer support and encouragement to one another. Please visit the Insecure Writers Support Group website, or Alex J. Cavanaugh, the founder of this group, to find the list of bloggers participating, or to sign up yourself!
The IWSG question of the month is: In terms of your writing career, where do you see yourself five years from now, and what’s your plan to get there?
Well, who can predict the future? I’ve also lived by the quote at the beginning of the novel, Of Mice and Men, “The best laid plans of mice and men oft go awry,” from a poem by Robert Burns.
In truth, I wouldn’t have predicted where I am today five years ago. But, here goes nothing. In five years, I expect to be writing even more theater reviews, maybe get a chance to review something on, or off, Broadway. (I hope to see Hamilton by then!) I’ll have a few more plays written and produced. I’ve joined the Playwright’s Center in Minneapolis and plan to utilize its resources. I hope to do something there this summer when I can get away during the week. I’m teaching a play writing class for youth in the area which is just as motivating to me. And, I need to set a date for the next play to be produced. Maybe next fall?
As an insecure writer, I have one bit of advice. Do it anyway. Find ways to feel successful. Maybe that’s getting something published in a local magazine, helping someone write their bio, entering a writing contest, or writing a killer blogpost that gets numerous comments. Believe in yourself and that you are the best person to tell that story/write that article. What you have to say (write/create) has value.
Go. Create. Inspire!
Journaling Prompt: Where do you see yourself in five years?
That’s a good quote. I like the variation about best laid plans being written in sand. No matter how well thought out they are, they’ll often get washed away. I’d love to see your review of Hamilton – hope you get to see it.
Thanks, Ellen. Some day. “I’m not throwing away my shot.”
I love that, Mary – do it anyway! This was such an inspirational post. Thank you! I also adore Lincoln’s quote (a new one for me). I’m gonna write that up on my whiteboard until it’s firmly fixed in my head 🙂 Congratulations on all your achievements so far – particularly in motivating others in all that you do. Have a super December.
Thanks, Nicola. Some quotes are worthy of white boards and bathroom mirrors!
I would LOVE to see Hamilton! Maybe one day…
Sounds like you’re quite busy, Mary! Good for you. Keep at it.
Happy IWSG Day!
Thanks, Michelle. I hope it tours in your part of the world.
That killer quote by Honest Abe sounds like a fantastic kids fiction novel. Just saying!
Oh, ya, Jennifer. Write it!
Do it anyway is great advice!
You definitely need to write and do another play.
What an uplifting post! “Do it anyway” is by far the most encouraging thought I’ve heard in awhile and I appreciate the nudge 🙂
Great advice! You can be insecure, but push through it and accomplish the things that make you nervous or scared. Good luck with your goals!
What a great post. I’ve written a screenplay sound so much more important in some way than I wrote a book. Great post and quote. I need to start feeling successful.
Juneta @ Writer’s Gambit
So inspiring, Mary. And you go!