As children, we were in constant learning mode. Our minds, they say, are like sponges when we’re young. But things sure change. As adults, we do not easily and willingly embrace the learning curve.
When faced with a new lesson, our stubborn minds tend to say, “I know enough already.†“I don’t need that information.†“I’ve already paid my dues as a student; I’m going to do this my way.â€
Facing the learning curve can be intimidating and even humiliating. When we ask for help or guidance, it makes us feel as though we’ve gone backward in our evolutionary path. The process of learning really strains our brains. Trying to learn something new takes effort and it can be downright frustrating. Go back to school or take a course and you’ll discover just how stressful and exhausting learning can be.
But how sweet is the education—the fruits of your efforts… How powerful you feel once you have the information, skills, training, education. How clearly you can see your way toward your goals once you have the knowledge needed to accomplish them. And this is true whether you want to grow the best watermelon around, ride a horse or publish a book.
My many hats are off to hopeful and struggling authors who visit this blog often in search of information and resources. I appreciate that you are willing to face the difficult learning curve by studying the articles and books I recommend, by checking out appropriate resources and by following the advice of professionals. And I continually reach out to those of you who stubbornly stay on your narrow path hoping to succeed in the hugely competitive world of publishing.
Stop trying to dig with a toothpick, take a hundred-mile trip on a skateboard, boil water using one match and bring a book to fruition with no knowledge of the publishing industry. Grab a sturdy shovel, buy a decent car, use that match to light a stove burner and, of course, study something about the publishing industry.
Here’s your assignment for the week:
• Visit this blog often and review my blog archives.
• Read The Right Way to Write, Publish and Sell Your Book. http://www.matilijapress.com/rightway.html
• Use the Author’s Workbook. (Tomorrow’s blog will explain the benefits of using a workbook.) http://www.matilijapress.com/workbook.html
• Join SPAWN (Small Publishers, Artists and Writers Network) http://www.spawn.org
• Contact me if you have any questions: plfry620@yahoo.com