What’s MY motivation?

Considered by some to be the question put by the more intense kind of thespians when faced with a difficult or unwelcome scene, the logical answer is surely, ‘Your job, mate – we can always get Sir Michael in.’

This simple motivator is not so far off the truth for writers, too, where the supply side of the market has never been greater, making competition for publishing slots very fierce. As if to support this, it’s common for authors to hear people say, ‘I could never do that – but I wish I could.’ It comes second to the ‘I’ve always wanted to write a book’ comment. Happily, for the rest of us, both reveal themselves to be more a wish than an intent.

Some consider it wise to know one’s limitations (really?). But wanting or wishing to do something different is part of our make-up as humans. It doesn’t matter whether it’s creating a piece of artwork, climbing a mountain, gaining a degree, getting a particularly tough job; achieving something that requires commitment, application and stamina and following the desire to do something out of the ordinary from our daily grind is as natural as breathing.

Some people are put off writing because they fear rejection or failure; others because they lack the basic desire or drive. The same applies in all walks of life… if you allow it.

The simple fact is – and it applies just as much to writing as anything else – you never know what you can do until you try.