# Managing Expectations: A Writer's Path to Success
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Chapter 1: Embracing the Reality of Writing
In the midst of a chilly Cleveland winter, I found myself enjoying the season during a visit to Ohio, even as temperatures hovered around freezing. Yet, that particular night, sleep evaded me, leaving me restless. Instead of wrestling with my inability to fall asleep, I redirected my energy into crafting structured sentences. At that moment, I was juggling four different drafts and was determined to complete at least one.
Settling into a warm couch by the fireplace, I began writing, quickly entering a flow state where my thoughts transformed into words at an exhilarating pace. What started as an intention to finish one draft resulted in me completing all four by dawn. With a flight to Washington, D.C., scheduled in just a few hours, sleep seemed pointless.
Despite my satisfaction at finishing early, I sent the drafts to a senior editor, requesting swift publication due to their time-sensitive nature. However, the editor proceeded to schedule them as he saw fit, indicating that my submissions wouldn’t receive significant promotion and would be published at random. Had I anticipated enthusiasm and praise from my boss, his indifferent response could have left me bewildered. Instead, I felt neither disappointment nor sorrow.
Through the years, I have learned to accept various responses to my work. Some pieces receive ample promotion and achieve success, while others fade into obscurity. Writers, more than anyone, stand to gain from effective marketing strategies; without them, our hard work often goes unnoticed.
Like many writers, I have experienced both highs and lows. My well-promoted pieces brought in accolades and revenue, while others fell flat. More importantly, I have honed the skill of keeping my expectations grounded. Based on my experiences, I believe there are four significant reasons why managing expectations is beneficial for writers.
- The Dangers of Overenthusiasm
It's natural to feel excited about a final draft; a writer must be passionate about their topic. However, after the initial thrill, it's essential to temper that excitement.
The truth is, the likelihood of others sharing your enthusiasm for your work is slim. Those reviewing your draft may appreciate it or may not share the same level of excitement. They might have different opinions or be unable to market it effectively, regardless of your emotional investment. Once your article is published, it’s wise to let go of any expectations. The reactions will vary widely; some readers may love it, while others may not care for it at all. Thus, maintaining a mindset of limited or no expectations is incredibly helpful.
- Lower Expectations, Reduced Anxiety
Every writer experiences stress during the drafting and editing phases. Once a draft is submitted, it’s crucial to avoid adding further stress.
While it's easy to be hopeful, high hopes can lead to significant letdowns, which only amplify stress. The less you expect, the less disappointment you will face. Remember, personal fulfillment is what truly matters. If you are pleased with your work, trust that it will find its audience eventually. Not every piece needs to be widely read; sometimes, niche writings resonate with a select few who appreciate your efforts.
- Impact on Future Work
Writers often dwell on past reactions. If a published piece doesn’t meet expectations or fails to attract readers, it can affect your current writing process.
Although it may not be immediately apparent, this preoccupation can alter your approach to new drafts. Each piece deserves a fresh mindset, free from the burdens of past feedback. I have learned to set aside the reactions to previous works, whether positive or negative, before diving into a new project.
- The Balance of Outcomes
Some of my articles have exceeded my expectations, while others have left me wondering about their potential. Conversely, I have also encountered pieces I thought would underperform but ended up thriving.
As a writer, the goal should always be to deliver your best work. Despite your efforts to promote it effectively, it’s impossible to predict what will resonate with readers. Often, the response to your most cherished drafts may disappoint, while those you thought less of can surprise you with their success.
Over time, I have learned to embrace these unpredictable responses. Writers develop resilience, mastering the art of expecting the unexpected, and leaving room for pleasant surprises.
The video titled "AP Lang Timed Writing Tips | Coach Hall Writes" provides valuable insights for writers looking to improve their craft. In it, Coach Hall shares practical advice on managing time effectively during the writing process, which can help alleviate some of the stress associated with drafting.
Putting in the effort is crucial.
With experience, I have learned to view every reaction positively, though it wasn’t always this way. In the early stages of my career, like many professionals, I faced disappointments and a lack of encouragement from higher-ups. However, I now regard these experiences as vital lessons in the realities of the working world.
The harshness of some colleagues could have easily discouraged me, but instead, it fortified my resolve. Experience truly is the best teacher, and these challenging moments have shaped my approach to managing expectations.
As I progressed through various roles and continued to write, I have remained dedicated to exploring diverse topics while accepting all feedback on my drafts with grace. This mindset likely explains why I emerged relatively unscathed from that discouraging night in Cleveland.
Like any writer, I desire my work to be well-promoted and successful. However, I consciously avoid engaging in debates about marketing strategies. I believe the primary concern for writers should be an unwavering commitment to honing their craft.
The focus should be on the writing process and completing it to the best of one’s ability, rather than fixating on the outcome. Not everything will proceed as planned, and not all factors can be controlled.
Ultimately, what matters is dedicating oneself to the task at hand and moving forward to the next project. Worrying about the results and their implications is a futile exercise. As writers, we must concentrate on the work and then progress onward.