by Edie Melson @EdieMelson

Sometimes as writers we’re our own worst enemies. We nurture thoughts in our heads that we would never say out loud to someone else. Just like hearing something negative spoken over and over again can influence our self-worth, the things we think about ourselves can damage our ability to follow our calling. 

While I titled this post things we should say to ourselves, we also must say them often enough that we actually come to accept and believe them. 

15 Things Writers Should Say and Believe

1. I know my calling is valid. Pursuing my dream has purpose.
2. I accept that the biggest obstacle to my dream is my mind. 
3. I cannot control what happens around me, but I can control how I respond.
4. I refuse to live in the past—past failure, past success, past missed opportunities. I will focus my energy on now and what’s to come.
5. I will fail. Failure isn’t permanent and it doesn’t define me or affect my value.
6. When I don’t have time for writing, I’ll re-evaluate my schedule and look for things I’m doing that God hasn’t called me to do. 
7. I will refuse to play the comparison game. I’ll stop looking at other writers as competition and begin viewing them as teammates.
8. I will count my blessings and look for the good in even the most difficult circumstances.  
9. I will reach out and help others achieve their dreams—looking for places and ways to encourage them.
10. I accept that I cannot pour out of a place that is empty. I will take time—daily—to fill myself up with God.
11. I will invest in being a better writer.  
12. When things don’t turn out as I wish, I will believe that God has the best still ahead for me. 
13. I will not expect to be the exception. I will work hard and be joyful when the unexpected happens.
14. I understand that looking on the bright side doesn’t mean ignoring the dark, it means bringing light into the dark.
15. First I will pray. Whatever the circumstances, this is where I’ll begin. 

These fifteen things are foundational to finding joy and peace as a writer. In this new year, I pray each of you will embrace these truths and experience the fullness of writing for God!

Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Connect with her on her website,  through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.