Level of success – A writer’s journey

  
When I tell people, be it friends, family or general acquaintances, that I enjoy writing and plan to publish my work, many relate it to a monetary value. Many make reference to well accomplished and famous authors and ask me who do I wish to emulate. They talk about the high life and the things that the success can reward me with. To this, I sigh.

I love my family and friends, tolerate the acquaintances, but only a few realise why I, and others write. It is not for the adulation (even though it would be nice), it is not for the monetary aspect (but how amazing would that be) and it is not even to be famous (Hey, who hasn’t dreamt of being mobbed?). I, like 90% of the rest of the writing world I would say, write because we have too. It is something that we cannot resist. We are driven to tell the tales of the characters and situations that require a voice. 

  
Some people I talk to are surprised that many of us writers give away free short stories on blogs. Some think there must be a price on everything. I disagree wholeheartedly and will always continue to share my stories as it is a huge learning experience and I get amazing feedback, encouragement and tips by doing so. It’s a win win. 

I asked my self earlier, what is success? It is different for each person and would like to share what success means to me. It may cause a few to raise their eyebrows where others may agree. 

• Success would mean that I would be a full time Author
• Success doesn’t mean that I would get paid highly, just that I could live within my means
• Success would mean I could take days off reading and not worry
• Success would mean I could attend book festivals and writing conventions 
• Success would mean my writing was influential
• Success would mean my work had an impact and meant something to at least one person

  

What drives you? What would you call success? I’d love to hear.