I enjoy exercising…most of the time. My schedule alternates between running, biking and walking, but honestly, when running days come along, I feel the eensiest bit whiny. It’s too hot…my shoes are too tight…it’s too cloudy…anything, really. Strangely, the best part is the feeling of accomplishment I get when I’m finished, all hot and sweaty, glad that I reached another goal.
Sunday’s whiny little voice was no different, but I laced up and headed out anyhow. The last leg of my run takes me past Joe and Rosemary’s house, set behind some trees.
They’re elderly – I’m guessing in their 80s – and obviously past any exercising days they may have had, because they drive their car down to the box to get the morning paper.
That’s what Joe was doing as I huffed and puffed past their driveway, running along, wishing our driveway was next. (Sensing some whining here?) I waved at Joe, but his attention was directed toward maneuvering the car so he could reach the press box. I ran a few steps, turned around, and waved once more. Joe responded with a big smile and a wave.
It was a simple thing, but it sealed the deal on my last half-mile. Buoyed by that little gesture of happiness, I fairly bounded home.
The writing process can be that way sometimes. I feel like I’m slogging along, not making the progress I want to. Everything is uphill, writing into the wind, so to speak.
At those times, it’s nice to have a little encouragement. Recently, I left a part-time job (read more about that here) to return to writing. I’ve submitted to magazines in the past, and wanted help polishing the way I went about it. I reached out to Peter Mallett, whose blog “Writing in Color” offers supportive and encouraging posts, written in down-to-earth style.
He responded with a terrific Q&A series, based around questions that I and other writers submitted. (Part 2 here).
It was just what I needed. Like Joe’s wave, it was a supportive boost that spurred me on.
Writing can be a solitary pursuit, but there are times when it’s important to reach out, with questions, advice, support, giving others that little push they need to finish the race. That feeling when I hit the “send” button on something I’ve written is a little like finishing my morning run – a lot of work, but the feeling of accomplishment is priceless.
When have you benefited from a helping hand? How have you used your talent to help others? That’s what it’s all about!
It seems as though someone in the blogosphere appears whenever I start to slow down. I will check out his blog! I can always use some polishing.
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You’re so right, Susie – the moment I slow down, I end up reading a blog about how to stay motivated. Sure helps, doesn’t it? And yes, I’d encourage you to check out Peter’s blog. He has helpful advice and a supportive attitude.
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Don’t you love those little boosts? I remember getting a card from a friend while I was in college. I was feeling a little down and her card was a list of reasons why she admired me. It was an incredible boost, and I have never ever forgotten it or the way it made me feel.
Thanks for bringing back that memory.
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You’re welcome! Sometimes those little things make all the difference, don’t they? Especially coming unexpectedly from such a nice friend!
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Love getting those little boosts! A few months ago one of my best friends took the time to write me a note saying how much he enjoyed seeing me evolve as a blogger/writer. It never hurts to get that validation that you are appreciated. Great post 🙂
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That must have made your day, Tim! It is nice to get these unexpected boosts, isn’t it? Validation for our efforts is always a day-brightener. Thanks, Tim!
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You are welcome! Those pick me ups never hurt 🙂
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