#IWSG: Success! Success?

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 It's time once again for the Insecure Writer's Support Group monthly post! 

 

The IWSG is a fantastic group of writers and bloggers who share posts the first Wednesday of each  month.

Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!

The awesome co-hosts for the September 1 posting of the IWSG are Rebecca Douglass (me!), T. Powell Coltrin @Journaling Woman, Natalie Aguirre, Karen Lynn, and C. Lee McKenzie!
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say. 

Remember, the question is optional!

September 1 question - How do you define success as a writer? Is it holding your book in your hand? Having a short story published? Making a certain amount of income from your writing?
 
Before I get to the question, let me say that I'm excited to be a co-host again! I'm a little disoriented, because I've just gotten back from a month in the mountains, but I'm also excited that I managed to add about 20,000 words to my novel between hikes, and am closing in on the finish!
 
So what about it? How do I define success? I think that changes from day to day. On some days, success is simply sitting down and writing. More often, it's about the finished work, whether it's a short story accepted somewhere or opening the box with copies of my latest novel. Seeing a polished and completed work out there for others to read and enjoy feels like an accomplishment, at the least.
 
Was it Stephen King who defined a writer's success as paying the power bill? Someone did, anyway--and this month, thanks to lots of solar power and not being home to use much energy, I earned more than twice the cost of my power. Success!
 
Finally, though, I think the sweetest sign of success is a note from a reader who loved my book. There really isn't much that can top someone telling you they couldn't put it down.
 
How about you? What's your favorite sign of success?
 
 ©Rebecca M. Douglass, 2021
 As always, please ask permission to use any photos or text. Link-backs appreciated.

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