Keeping it in Perspective

The publishing business is not for the fainthearted. It requires perseverance, dedication, patience and humility. There are all sorts of giant rocks littering the path to success. And that success is relative.

I remember when I got my first contract with an up and coming ebook publisher. I was so excited that I cried, my husband took me out to celebrate. Eventually I took my rights back for both books I had with that company because they were about to implode. Then there was the next publisher and the next. Each time I got a foothold in what I perceived to be a better, stronger, more discerning publishing house, I was uber excited.

But there are always pitfalls. In this business one of those is rejections and I have had my share. Some hit me harder than others. Thank goodness I have a husband who always reminds me of the milestones when I want to wallow in a pity party. He also has a way of pointing out what's really important.

Recently, one of my daughter's friends had an awful, life-changing experience. It made me stop and realize how little any of professional hopes and dreams matter in the big picture. I have my family, I have a home, clothes on my back and food on the table. If my next book is rejected, well, it would be a disappointment, but it won't destroy me.

I have to remind myself that it is what it is. I wish it didn't take tragedies to bring this point home. Are you able to keep things in perspective or do you need those jarring moments to remind you what's really important?