What kind of support system do you have? Have you ever given much thought to it?
My mom has been the most enduring supporter of my writing, since I was in school and she'd say, in response to well-received English papers, "You should be a writer, Janna." And back several months ago, after someone she and her brothers grew up with published a book, she made me promise I'd finish mine and do all I could to get it in print.
My dad, too, serves up great helpings of encouragement. I have a couple aunts who beam with pride whenever I talk about my career, some cousins and extendeds who believe in me relentlessly. Some of my closest friends listen to my progress with eager ears, with firm conviction I'll be published. And then, of course, the network of writers I've connected with never cease to offer both support and encouragement.
There are those in my life who seem not to give a flyin' flip. (And that's fine.) Some family members, though only a few, have no interest whatsoever. Maybe they don't understand I'm serious about it, or think I'm talented enough. Maybe they're waiting for something huge to happen, so I've proven myself. Who knows? Likewise, I have friends who aren't impressed or excited. One friend in particular gives empty encouragement, support not sincere in the least. Pfft.
But it's those who do support my dreams and encourage my success that push me forward. They serve to light my fire again and again, planting thoughts that I can do this. In a way, it's for them that I write.
What about you? Tell me about your support system.
15 comments:
I'm lucky to have a supportive wife and a core group of fellow writers in my area. And of course all of my blogging buddies as well.
That's great, Travis!
And you've inadvertantly pointed out to me that I forgot to mention my husband! His is the quiet kind of support. He doesn't do much rooting while I'm in the process, but once a project is complete, he glows with pride for me. And now that I've gotten so many more notches under my belt, he speaks highly of me. He likes to tell people I'm looking for an agent. :)
My parents are beyond proud, but they've always supported whatever I choose to do. And of course there's gramma. :) She's loving watching her daughter (Karen) get published so now she wants the same for me. There's also my writing cousin, Jenna.
Just today Ibis called me, really excited because a guest at the hotel runs an editing business. He was so cute. :)
After that, it varies. Many friends are supportive, but like you said, will be more interested if I'm published. And that's fine. I'm pretty good at figuring out who really wants to know more, so I share with them.
ahhh Janna et al...some are destine(e)d to roll alone...count yourselves lucky to have the ones you do...seeking the solace of support oft times leaves me wanting...
Go Mel!!! I try to be supportive :).
Janna you are very lucky...that's A LOT of supportive people.
I'd say my husband is fairly supportive but he seems to have a sort of the-proof-is-in-the-pudding demeanor about it...but I can't be mad about it because I am the same way...even to myself :(.
My mom and my sisters are supportive and encouraging but I rarely, rarely talk with them about it.
There is one person who believes I can do anything, my journalism professor from college (who I still keep in touch with after 13 years)...he has more faith in me than I do.
Anonymous, we'll be your support! No need for wanting, you know?
Jenna, I think it's fantastic your old professor still puts so much faith in you!
Can I just point out how cool it is that my cousin and I have the same online friends. :)
Certainly. It's uber-cool, mi amiga. ;)
family is the best support possible, right cuz :)
My family and friends are supportive--TOO supportive sometimes. As in Let's-Tell-Perfect-Strangers-She's-A-Writer too supportive.
I do appreciate it, so I shouldn't complain.
My entire family is either supportive or benignly indifferent, which is fine with me. Mind you, I don't spend a lot of time talking about it. My husband, of course, is more aware, and he is almost too supportive. He keeps wanting me to send it off before it's ready.
And I have a crit group, and some NaNo buddies, and AW. A veritable glut.
I've got a lot of great people and I constantly thank them. But I also find that the more I love and listen to the people around me, the more supportive they are for me when I need them. It's like a do-gooder's bank!
Melody Platz
The Writer’s Comfy Corner
My mother and my husband are my biggest support, though my husband is more "hands on" in that regard.
He's willing to read short snips, let me bounce ideas off him, and he's even built me a desk specifically for me to write on. He's also bought me a laptop. He never lets me quit, but he doesn't push. He's just...there.
My mom is a willing reader, and honest with her opinions, which I am very grateful for.
These two folks, in addition to my writer friends (wink) at AW are the best support system anyone could ask for.
I have a wonderful husband who told me to follow my passion and write! My writers groups are invaluable but mostly my email and online groups seems to encourage the most! Thanks for a great blog-- your postings encourage!
Aw, Terri, thanks so much for the kind compliment. I'll try to keep the posts up to par. :)
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