I am a writer.
That’s what I’ve learned from Jeff Goins, along with many other helpful things.
I wrote these words in a journal last summer—drawing a line in the sand. I had been seeking validation from other writers, publishers and the “numbers” to prove that I was indeed a writer, but through Jeff’s words I discovered I already was one; deep breaths for this tightly wound dream chaser.
As you probably know Jeff wrote a new book entitled, The Art of Work: A Proven Path to Discovering What You Were Meant To Do. I found it quite helpful in clarifying things as I write and dream (Side note: This book is not just for writers, it’s for all those who want to pursue work that matters).
Last summer I received good advice from smart people about not combining my music with my writing. However, when I was designing this website I felt compelled to include the four aspects of my current God-sized dreams: Writing, Music, Speaking and Photography. It might seem like a divided calling but these four things ebb and flow as I ride the waves of creativity; they complement one another and keep things interesting—at least I think so.
Another friend gave different advice when creating this website, “Just be yourself, don’t get caught up in what everyone else is doing or not doing.” In other words: Be true, be you.
Yes, you should listen to wise counsel, but be careful not to abandon yourself for the sake of gain and acceptance.
Jeff’s book brought affirmation to this website decision in Chapter 6, where he describes the “portfolio life”. This portfolio concept views work as a “complex group of interests, passions, and activities” (The Art of Work, pg 139).
Image via Barnes & Noble
Throughout this book Jeff shares accounts from around the world of those who live(d) their callings. A common thread appeared through these accounts: mistakes were made, they learned to pivot when things didn’t go as expected, they kept going and were true to their convictions.
The Art of Work is interesting, practical and inspiring.
My favorite sections came at the end—so be sure to read it all the way through. In fact, as you will see below, page 167 spoke the loudest to this try-hard woman.
“Sometimes all the little things in life aren’t interruptions to our calling. They are the most important part.” (The Art of Work, pg. 167).
As I write this post little ones are interrupting and I’m not handling it well—not handling their hearts well as I snap and say, “Quiet! I’m trying to work here.” But, as we talked about before, maybe the small things are the most important after all.
“As you endeavor to do something amazing with your life, don’t forget that without people to support your dream, your work will always be incomplete” (The Art of Work, pg. 167).
My husband is gracious. He’s not a writer yet he listens to me proofread my posts out loud night after night. He is a great supporter as I write, sing, speak and photograph, however, he has his limits. When I am out-of-balance and working like a “holic” he gets weary of cheering me on. He grows resentful when all I do is talk about words and pretty much neglect most things for the sake of creative pursuits.
I don’t blame him.
He likes hunting and I support him in it, but one can only handle the play-by-play of the “Big One” so many times. 🙂
“A life filled with achievements and accolades but lacking those people necessary to celebrate those moments is not much of a life at all” (The Art of Work, pg. 167).
Jeff wrote a guest blog post for Sarah Mae that resonated with me, Your Spouse Is Not the Enemy of Your Dream. He also mentioned this concept on page 175-176. He had overlooked the fact that his wife was a big fan of his dreams.
Below are my comments to Jeff’s post:
My husband is my biggest supporter yet when I get out of balance, with my priorities and time, he ever so gently tells me. He was tired of waking up to a cold bed and going to bed alone because I was up writing. We had some hard conversations and I am trying to either get up early or go to bed late, but not both. Although it felt frustrating I appreciated him helping me stay accountable to my bigger dream of a healthy marriage and being a present wife and mom. I believe that as we honor our vows God will bless us with productive time to work on our “dreams” without sacrificing our greater dreams.
“As you strive to achieve your life’s work, be careful of at what costs you chase it. It will be easy to resent those closest to you, to make your biggest supporters your worst enemies” (pg 175 & 176).
Doing what you feel you are meant to do can be exhilarating, but don’t let that work overshadow your “magnum opus”.
Jeff incorporates one of my favorite movies, Mr. Holland’s Opus, into his book. I leave you with this scene from it (click to watch video clip) to sum up the beauty that is found as you “discover what you are meant to do”.
Sometimes our life turns out much differently, yet much fuller, than we ever imagined.
P.S. In honor of Father’s Day I am giving away a copy of The Art of Work. This would make a great gift for your Dad, Husband or Brother or you!
P.P.S. Linking up with Kelly for the #RaRaLinkup.
I’ve been curious about this, Katie, so I was glad to read your review. I’m encouraged by the view that sometimes it’s those irritating interruptions that are even more important than our writing. I guess living life to the fullest is our magnum opus. When I’m tempted to resent interruptions to my writing, I remember that the living is the basis for the writing!
That is good Betsy, “living is the basis for writing!” :’)
I’ve seen this book around too and this is a great review. Just added it to my list of “buy soon!” books on Amazon. Can’t wait to read it!
I love that idea of our spouse being a supporter of our dream, but still needing our love and support in the midst of that. I’m learning that balance with my husband and love seeing that other people wrestle with it too.
Hi Lauren- It’s a hard balance by such an important one. I don’t get it “write” 😉 often but I’m trying. God’s grace is such a gift and so thankful for a patient Hubby too.
Sounds like a great book that both Phillip and I would benefit from. I’ve been reminded a lot lately that it is not so much about what happens (good or bad), but what we do with that (our outlook, positive or negative). Interruptions are usually viewed in the negative but can be positive if we chose to respond appropriately.
Your post has made me really curious about the book. 🙂
Hi Rebecca! How is the little darling? This is a good book about doing the things we were made to do and pushing through even when things are hard.
Thanks for the book review and your thoughts about the book. Jeff is an inspirational person.
God Bless
Katie! I love everything about this post! I, too, have The Art of Work, but unlike you I haven’t had the chance to read it yet – very much looking forward to it! I appreciate your words about your husband and his support. I wouldn’t be where I am without mine! I follow you on Twitter (@AdrianJessenFIT), and am very much looking forward to meeting you at She Speaks!
Hi Adrian- Thank you! So thankful for my husband and glad yours supports you as well—what a gift. Have such a great time at She Speaks. Wish I could be there this year. Have you been before?
Hi Ifeoma- Yes, I’ve learned a lot from him as far as writing and work goes. Hope you are doing well!
Love reading your takeaways from this book. Can also relate to the need for balancing family relationships and writing time — it’s a tricky business! 🙂 May the Lord continue to bless your labors for His glory. Thanks for hosting the giveaway!
Hi Kate! A tricky business indeed. Hope you are having a great summer. Gotten any Lake time in?
Katie I need this book! I am exactly the same, but aren’t we all battling the comparisons and “If only I was like them!”
This is such an encouraging post, so glad you visited me so I could link back on the #RaRaLinkup thank you:)
Hi Tania- I understand the comparison game, so hard, so real. But it wastes so much mental energy, doesn’t it?
I enjoyed your review of Jeff’s book which happens to be on my wish list. Your post resonated with me. Thanks, Katie. 🙂
Hi Ruthlyn- Thanks for commenting and entering the giveaway.
I’ve seen this book on NetGalley and I’ve been meaning to look into. Thanks for the wonderful review and for sparking my interest!
Sure thing Samantha. 🙂
Dear Katie,
I really enjoyed reading your post. This past week, I kind of found out about Jeff Goins by accident on Twitter. After reading a post of his, I visited and signed up on Goinswriter.com Jeff provided the opportunity to download the first chapter from his book “The Art of Work”. I devoured the chapter and felt myself longing to read the rest of the book. Next, I noticed that he was doing a free webinar on Authorlaunch.com Sitting with my earphones on I took about four to five pages of notes. The experience really inspired me to start moving on something that I should have twenty years ago.
Writing has been a passion of mine ever since taking some English courses in college twenty five years ago. The great baseball Hall of Famer Ted Williams once commented on an essay that I wrote about him “There is no doubt in my mind that you have a bright future as a journalist.” Sadly, from that moment to this current day, I have regretted not pursuing the craft with the same type of determination that Mr. Williams did to become the greatest hitter that ever lived. The regret is something that I no longer wish to live with. I’m not afraid of failing. The only fear I have is not stepping up to the plate and ever trying…
If you have any feedback or suggestions, I would love to hear them. I need to hone and practice my craft daily as Jeff suggests. My thoughts were of starting a blog. However, I could use some feedback and suggestions to get the ball rolling.
For someone who tells their children “You can be anything you want to be in life. All you have to do is work hard and be passionate about it.” We’ll I guess it is about time that I heed my own advice.
You have talent. Keep up the great work. Like yourself, before reading the first chapter of “The Art of Work”, I already knew that I was a writer. Now, it’s time to do the work and hone the craft.
P.S. Maybe I’ll get lucky and win the book!
My advice? Write a little bit each day (I think that is what Jeff would say too). Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott is a helpful book for writers. I think a blog is a good way to start because it is accountability to “publish” what you write and to get your writing out there and be consistent. Write on!
Katie,
Thanks for the great advice. Bird by Bird was an excellent book that I enjoyed reading. The humor in it was an added bonus. Definitely see myself using the ideas and keeping it in my writers toolbox. I have been busy writing almost everyday. The feeling is quite therapeutic. Trying to find an outlet for next step (magazine, large newspaper, or blog). At least that is the goal.
Hope all is going well for you. Keep up the great work!
I cannot wait to read this book! I especially liked the quote you pulled from it: “As you endeavor to do something amazing with your life, don’t forget that without people to support your dream, your work will always be incomplete” (The Art of Work, pg. 167).