I read a lot of fabulous blog posts during any given week. Many of them have wonderful advice, insights, and information. I thought it would be fun to start a weekly link love post, where I mention a few of my favorites and offer an interesting quote from each. If you’ve got time this weekend, surf through and explore some of these links. They’re all worthwhile!

For those who fear failing as a writer, here’s something to think about - The Writing Life. Simplified.

…let’s face it: how many people do we know who are doing what they really want to be doing for a living?

How many people do we know who would be willing to go through the potential suffering necessary for the sake of what they love?

Not many.

We resist because we let their fears become our own.

16 Tips on How to Survive and Thrive as a Writer - Live Write Thrive

Wipe the slate clean–and often. Sometimes you just need a fresh start. Each day can bring new opportunity. You are not living one long day for life—we experience life in increments and your goal is to keep coming out on top, one day at a time.

Zen and the Art of GoodReads: Author Priscilla Warner - Blurb is a Verb

There are so many people on goodreads, and so many genres of writing, that I find it easier to let go of negative reviews there. Because people on goodreads love books, and spend the time to read and review them, I respect their eagerness to engage with the written word, no matter how I might be personally affected by the words they use in their reviews. I find the community enormously engaged and respectful of a wide range of opinions and interests.

 Creative Contagion: Setting Sparks, Catching Fire – Creative Juicer

Who and what you surround yourself with can hugely impact your thoughts. You are what you consume. So surround yourself with voices and ideas that will keep you inspired. Pay attention to the people who embody what you want to be. Catch their spark.

When Should You Admit Defeat, Give It Up, And Go Eat Worms? - Warrior Poet

So if you and your writing (or any other endeavor) aren’t where you want to be, consider:

Maybe you haven’t spent enough time at it yet. And how long should that be? This brings us back to the 10,000-hour mark that comes up repeatedly: To become pro-grade good at something takes about 10,000 hours of focused effort, which is roughly equal to 3 hours/day for 10 years.

Or maybe you haven’t been getting the right kind of feedback.

Or maybe you haven’t been continually pushing yourself past your comfort zone.

That’s it for this week! Have you read an excellent post recently? Leave a link in the comments. I’d love to check it out!