21 Comments
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Daniel Lane's avatar

Such a cool writing career! And get! A cubs fan is always a plus! 😄

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Marta Lane's avatar

Haha!

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Gabi Coatsworth's avatar

Such an inspiring writer!

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Marta Lane's avatar

Yes, she is!

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Kira Foxfeet's avatar

Ohhh I super relate to this -- "Engage with the work and motivation will follow." I've heard this from mentors in the personal development space, and it's something a bit challenging for those of us with ADHD (I'm autistic + adhd). We often want to wait for the motivation to do something, but then never do it LOL. This is a powerful insight Virginia is sharing, and very true. The more I've gotten clear on goals and taken consistent action towards them, even when showing up imperfectly or very "small" on a particular low-energy day, the fact remains that consistency matters more than intensity, and progress beats perfection the more you keep showing up. Just start! Love her story!

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Marta Lane's avatar

I love your story! And it so true. Just showing up is hard, because there’s all these other things that need attention, but when you save those things for later, and get to writing, you develop a routine.

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Kira Foxfeet's avatar

Yeah! I've learned that we're allowed to put our creative priority first (when nothing’s on fire demanding our attention at least) and then do the things we have to do later, and it all works out. I experimented with making writing a non-negotiable in my day, and I'll try to start my peak time for focus, creativity, and productivity with that. When I'd leave writing for later in the day, I'd be too drained for it more often than not. I've been able to get consistent with that routine like you said as a result, which is new and awesome 😊

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Marta Lane's avatar

That's fantastic, Kira!

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Laura's avatar

It’s always fun to read about my mom. My brother and I left in the early morning with her sitting at her typewriter and returned in the evening to find her hard at work in the same spot day after day for years. I remember when she started teaching those classes, but at the time I had no idea about the anxiety. We are so proud of her entire career. 💕

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Marta Lane's avatar

Laura, thank you for sharing that image. It encompasses her dedication beautifully and is proof of the hard work it takes to establish a career as a writer.

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Joan Fernandez's avatar

Love this! Virginia has inspired and helped countless writers. She is a role model and selfless giver. Can’t wait for her book. Thank you for highlighting Virginia, Marta!

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Marta Lane's avatar

I couldn’t agree with you more! And I could also say the same things about you.

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Linda Berlin's avatar

I do the same thing: stay in action while trying to workout a story. Funny how the brain works. Thanks for the read.

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Marta Lane's avatar

What your favorite way to stay in action?

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Linda Berlin's avatar

I just keep moving and things do come when you stop thinking about it.

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Virginia McCullough's avatar

Thanks so much, Marta--I'm so looking forward to getting my writing book out. I always have enjoyed writing about writing. And in time like these, chaseing our dreams seems criticially important to our wellbeing.

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Marta Lane's avatar

Thank you, Virginia. A lot of us are eager to read your book. I’m sure it’ll be wise and humorous. I agree. Chasing dreams is critical to our wellbeing, now more than ever.

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Heather Dodge Martin's avatar

What a great peek into a fascinating career! I can’t wait until Virginia’s book on writing comes out in the fall, for more solid advice. Thanks, Marta!

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Marta Lane's avatar

Right? I'm looking forward to reading it also.

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Rachel Stone's avatar

Wow, what a journey! Virginia is a total superstar and such an inspiration.

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Marta Lane's avatar

Totally! I love calling her a superstar. And I love how generous she is with her wisdom.

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