What actually is a reward? We all long for them, but the definitions are endless, from the wide-eyed delight of a child to chocolate after a bad day to praise from the hard-to-please boss. As a writer, there are several definitions as well, all depending on where we are in the writing life, what we expect out of writing, and what just makes us feel it is all worthwhile. Let me mention a few rewards from my own experience.
First book is accepted for publication. I had four glasses of wine and never even felt them. The reward: achievement of a lifelong dream.
Book gets some good reviews. Reward: who knew a critic/reader would actually think I wrote well?
Book gets nominated for an award. Reward: I’m in what company? No way!
Editor says I did a good job on latest book. Reward: I can still write!
In fact, I do not earn a lot and will never make either the NY Times best-seller list or the hallowed pantheon of great writers. If these things were high on my list of rewards, I would be miserably disappointed. On the other hand, my publisher has kept me on and lets me write about things for which I have a passion. That, to me, is priceless.
We all can’t get the big brass rings, so to speak, and I applaud those who try and do, but for the many of us who don’t, I offer this.
Savor the hug by the reader who loves your books. If a character portrayal gives someone comfort, rejoice. Never stop loving the craft. Work at it with zeal and have the courage to take chances. You may end up being very surprised by some of the rewards you get. If nothing else, contentment in life is rare, and that may be the ultimate reward.
A very nice reminder, Priscilla. I'd forgotten about the first time someone other than my family and friends -- a complete stranger at a conference! -- came up to me and said she liked my book. I showed her my badge, convinced she had me confused with a real writer. Big reward when I realized she meant me.
Posted by: Camille Minichino | August 07, 2012 at 08:42 AM
Wonderful words, Priscilla. It all depends on what goals we set, right? Think of the Olympics, where not winning a gold can set a contestant to tears and feel like a "loss." Whereas, if I can trot down the cul-de-sac and back without breaking into a walk, it's a total victory!
Rewards are what we make them. :-)
Thanks for the reminder!
Posted by: Ann | August 07, 2012 at 09:14 AM
Your words are so true, Priscilla. Life is full of rewards, and it's important to take a moment and acknowledge them.
Posted by: Staci | August 07, 2012 at 09:51 AM
Rewards are tricky things and I like your examples, Priscilla. Part of it may be recognizing a reward when it is offered. Too often, I hear people blow off sincere compliments with self-criticism, self-reinforcing some idea that they're not 'worthy.' When one is tempted in that direction, four glasses of wine sounds like a fine idea!
Posted by: Susan Shea | August 07, 2012 at 03:43 PM
Thank you all for your comments! This was a fun topic to think about.
Posted by: Priscilla | August 07, 2012 at 05:34 PM