On Wednesdays, I share posts, fables, songs, poems, quotations, TEDx Talks, cartoons, and books that have inspired and motivated me on my writing journey. I hope these posts will give writers, artists, and other creatives a mid-week boost.

Whenever I need a boost, I reread Write Smart, Write Happy by award-winning author Cheryl St. John. Here’s an uplifting excerpt:

Remember to celebrate the goals you achieve; don’t dwell on what didn’t work. Never compare yourself to anyone, because you’re special just the way you are. You have the ability to dream a dream no one else can. You’re going to write the books only you can write.

Continue to learn. Be aware, curious, and open-minded. Be a reader. Most of us came to be writers because of our love of reading. When we get busy with deadlines, it’s easy to let that first love slip away. Renew that love. Fill the well. Remind yourself why you love stories, why you want to write.

And above everything else: Believe in yourself. Draw on and draw out the writer inside. You’re the only writer like you—the only person who can write your unique individual stories. You’re the only person who can make your dream come true. You have the tools and the desire. Hold onto the unshakeable truth that you can do this and you will move forward.

Source: Write Smart, Write Happy by Cheryl St. John, p. 261