Just Do It

“I hate writing, I love having written.”

― Dorothy Parker

What if you want to be a writer…

but you hate to write?

This was Kate DiCamillo’s dilemma.

So, she spent an entire decade dreaming of being a writer while working odd jobs.

Like the one at Disney World where she told folks to “Look down and watch your step” all day…

Every. Day.

For all of her twenties, Kate didn't write a single word.

Then she decided…

that she didn't want to say on her deathbed, “I think I could have done it.”

She also decided…

That she didn't have to be talented.

She just had to be persistent.

So, she got up at 4:30 every day and wrote two pages.

And it didn't matter if those pages stank to high heaven.

Then she started submitting stories.

For most of her thirties, she collected rejection slips.

400 of them.

I’m so glad she didn't quit after rejection 392.

Because here’s what came next—

Because of Winn Dixie, Newbery Honor Book, 2000

The Tale of Despereaux, Newbery Medal Winner, 2004

Flora and Ulysses, Newbery Medal Winner, 2014

And guess what?

She still hates to write. In fact, that Dorothy Parker quote is her favorite.

So, she hangs Christmas lights all around her desk to convince herself that she’s having a good time.

Then she gets up early

And writes those two pages…

Even if they stink.

PROMPT: Decide to be persistent. Set a doable daily goal… and right away, write anyway.

Write on… and on… and on!