by Kelly Light
I don’t want to talk about feelings. I don’t want to pamper you. I’m not gonna nurture your spirit. I’m not gonna help you find your happy place where ideas grow like flowers.
I want to make you work.
I want to talk about just how hard you are going to have to work if you really want to create children’s books.
I’m gonna get real here, folks. I could try to inspire you with lots of spiritual mumbo jumbo, but I’d rather kick you in the tuchus.
‘Cause that is what you need. I’m gonna be tough. I am gonna go all medieval on that butt.
I wish I could get Samuel L. Jackson to read this post to you…but this is just me, the voice of experience..sending you some tough love today.
You now have one week left of PiBoIdMo. You’ve taken on the challenge. When the month is over – don’t put down the pencil.
Never put down the pencil.
I am talking commitment on a new level.
Ten minutes a day is not going to lead to getting a book written or drawn or dummied or submitted. If that’s what you have managed to do everyday for three weeks, making children’s books may not be the job for you.
I know, I know….you’re calling me some choice words right about now. Hear me out.
This month is about coming up with ideas. Which is an important first step. What are you going to do with those ideas?
An idea is just a spark. You have to cut down the trees and chop them into logs until your blistered and bleeding and collect kindling and learned how to build the right wood pile tee-pee…to make a fire…to make that spark ignite into a blaze.
You aren’t gonna get warm with just a spark.
You are gonna freeze like a motha #$%&#%.
Don’t stop after ten minutes. Don’t stop after a month.
This is hard work. This is hours and hours of work.
If you want to get published, want it more than anything or want it more than everyone else, than this is the job for you.
Job. Not dream. Not hobby.
If you are in this for the long haul, start your haul now. You want a career in this? Act like you already have one.
Fasten your seat belts while you have your “Butt in Chair,” folks, and only get out of it to go to the john!
If you really want this, keep reading. If you think you may get to that book dummy you have had on your desk for the last two years or you might write down that idea you had four years ago that you know is genius and a best seller and the next Fancy Nancy or Diary of a Wimpy Kid and you’ll get around to it after you’ve decided “you’re ready” and you’ve taken 24 more writing workshops….you may want to stop reading now.
I’m about to get meaner.
I said you need to want this more than everyone else.
I wanted this more than you.
Harsh, right?
But true.
I wanted this so badly I was like a pitt bull. Jaws of steal clamped down on this career.
Who do you think of as the people successful in publishing?
Those people wanted to be in it more than everybody else.
They had the drive. The determination.
They were like dogs on a bone.
They write to write and draw to draw, day after day, after day.
They don’t just consider it a hard job that they love….but also consider it oxygen.
You can’t exist without oxygen. You can’t only breathe for ten minutes a day.
You are dedicating the month of November to generate picture book ideas. Dedicate the next 12 months to turning your ideas into manuscripts and book dummies.
Ideas are not delivered under your pillow by the Idea Fairy. Ideas are generated, manufactured by work. You need to be an idea factory. A word factory. An image factory.
You have to grind these ideas into something. You have to pound them into shape. You have to process them into something useful, intelligent, imaginative and appealing.
You have to billow steam and pollute your life to make something that matters.
The biggest pieces of the 1000 piece puzzle to publication are hard work, passion, believing in yourself, perseverance, persistence, patience and opportunity.
Talent—or a better word, SKILL—is the last and smallest piece of the puzzle. When all other pieces have been put in place…you need the the skills developed and ready for when opportunity knocks. Or YOU kick down the #@$@%*$ door.
You had better have the goods and be ready to work. You can only be ready if you are ALWAYS creating new work.
Always.
That’s in like, everyday.
I now work 7 days a week. 10 hours a day.
I worked hard to get here but I had no idea how much harder I would work once I got books.
So work that tuchus off this week. Don’t half-ass it.
What you have come up with this month will not be brilliant. But what you think has potential should not sit on your desk until the next PiboIdMo.
Finish it. Really, finish it. Finish one. The next one will be easier. And the next. Just finish.
Polish it. It’s no good until you rework it, over and over……..
Send it off. To a crit group. To an agent. To a editor. If you don’t submit, nothing will ever happen. Nothing. Ever. Nada. Zip. Ze-ro.
Believe in it and yourself. You are as much a work in progress as your work. Own your work where it is right now. Make no excuses for it or where you are in your development at this very moment.
The Beatles could never have made “Hey Jude” without first making “I Wanna Hold Your Hand”.
Take your work in hand and hand – it – over – to be looked at by many people who know more than you.
Move on. NEXT! Next challenge, next idea, next month, next story, next project… you are factory now, remember? DO NOT PRESS THAT BIG RED STOP BUTTON. DO NOT SHUT DOWN THE LINE.
Lather. Rinse. Repeat.
Think of me. By next PiboIdmo, I will have met 4 book deadlines working 10 hours a day, seven days a week.
I wanted it more than you. Now YOU go—beat ME at wanting it.
My inspirational foot is kicking your backside. Go to work.
Don’t make me come over there.
No Samuel L. Jacksons were harmed in the making of this post.
Kelly Light has a lot of books to work on. She is illustrator of “The Quirks” series from Bloomsbury. “Elvis and the Underdogs” from Balzer and Bray, her picture book “Louise Loves Art” is out next Fall 2014 from Balzer and Bray with more Louise books to follow,
“just Add Glitter” comes out 2016 from Beach Lane Books and the hits just keep on coming…
Check out Kelly’s work at KellyLight.com.
All opinions expressed above were solely Kelly’s and not the opinions of PiBoIdMo or it’s affiliates.
Kelly is giving away signed copies of “The Quirks” and “Elvis and The Underdogs”.
Two winners will be randomly selected at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for this prize if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post.
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)
Good luck, everyone!
354 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 23, 2013 at 6:38 am
Michelle Mapp
Okay, okay. I am heading to my desk!
November 23, 2013 at 6:50 am
tanyakonerman
I LOVE THIS POST! Nothing like a good kick in the butt (and Samuel Jackson) to get me motivated. Think I’ll post this near my computer to remind me to kick it up several notches every single day!
November 23, 2013 at 6:55 am
Steve Barr
I used to listen to my grandfather begin tales from his childhood with the line “One day, when I write my book, this will be in it.” He never wrote his book. And it would have been a really good one. I wish he had known Samuel L. Jackson. Or Kelly Light. They would have given him a good swift kick in the butt, and Grandpop’s autobiography would be on bookstore shelves right now.
November 23, 2013 at 12:22 pm
kelight
My Mom too! I never wanted a pet monkey named Regret on my back!
November 23, 2013 at 6:56 am
Janet
This. Was. Awesome. Thank you! Needed that this morning–nothing but the honest truth! Feel like Rudy from that Notre Dame football movie—all determined to become an author at all costs.
November 23, 2013 at 6:13 pm
kelight
Rudy!Rudy!Rudy!
November 23, 2013 at 7:03 am
Alicia van Thiel
I hear the crack of the whip:) Love the challenge!…Off to draw some more:)
November 23, 2013 at 7:13 am
kirsticall
Great Post! I’m ready to work.
November 23, 2013 at 7:17 am
Jennifer DuBose
Haha! Absolutely fantastic post. Period.
November 23, 2013 at 7:20 am
Karen Mae Zoccoli
Thanks for the voice of honesty and some ‘get your butt in gear’ truth! Love your post and your energy! thanks Kelly!
November 23, 2013 at 7:22 am
Tina Cho
Great message to work hard and never quit once PiBoIdMo is over! Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 7:23 am
Joanna
We needed this! Kelly you are a great creator and a serious butt-kicker. yeah!
November 23, 2013 at 7:25 am
Sue Poduska
Wow. I feel like I just ran out of the locker room and down the tunnel. Thanks, Kelly.
November 23, 2013 at 7:25 am
Tammi Sauer
I think I have a crush on Kelly Light.
November 23, 2013 at 12:22 pm
kelight
!:)!!
November 23, 2013 at 7:28 am
Joanne Sher
Wow. Love and need this post. Thanks for it. Gonna get to work!
November 23, 2013 at 7:32 am
aliciaminor
You tell it like it is. I wish we could have it record and play everyday as a mind kicker but it’s all up to us. Thanks for the big push.
November 23, 2013 at 7:33 am
B Lee Draper
You mean…the ideas Fairy isn’t real???! Bugger. Great post – thank you!
November 23, 2013 at 7:46 am
Therese Nagi
Kelly you have me motivated and you kicked my tush into writing consistently. Glad you gave us a push and a challenge to keep writing!
November 23, 2013 at 7:47 am
storyfairy
Wow, Kelly, you’re a tough cookie! Thanks, I needed that!
November 23, 2013 at 7:48 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
I need to print your post and hang it on the wall. Very inspiring
November 23, 2013 at 7:51 am
lmconnors
Time will sort the dreamers from the doers. Thanks for the push Kelly.
November 23, 2013 at 6:16 pm
kelight
Dreamers – we all start off as dreamers. And wish upon a star-ers… but we have to act on those dreams and wishes.
November 23, 2013 at 6:17 pm
kelight
November 23, 2013 at 7:51 am
Hana
Just the kind of tough love I want and need!
November 23, 2013 at 7:52 am
Kellie DuBay Gillis
I was sweating bullets and ideas just reading your post! (Now I’m going to have Pulp Fiction in my brain all day.) Thanks for the butt-kicking!
November 23, 2013 at 7:57 am
Susan Nicholas
Wow! That was what I needed to hear today. Thank you.
November 23, 2013 at 7:58 am
Julie Segal Walters
Heck yeah! Thanks, Kelly. I always count on you to bring it! GREAT post.
November 23, 2013 at 12:23 pm
kelight
I smight hesitance and indecision.
November 23, 2013 at 7:59 am
Lynn A. Davidson
Ouch! and Thank You!
Like Steve Barr’s grandfather, my mother always wanted to write a book. She was a busy, creative lady and former schoolteacher who worked her way out of a life of hard knocks, and with interesting experiences to tell. Sadly, the book never happened.
November 23, 2013 at 8:01 am
Sylvia Liu
Great post – a needed kick in the butt~ thanks.
November 23, 2013 at 8:03 am
Dee Almond
WHEW!
November 23, 2013 at 8:03 am
Lori Mozdzierz
Tough love rock! The more at is expected of us, the more we will do!!
November 23, 2013 at 8:09 am
Jennifer Cole Judd
Preach it! An awesome keister-kicking. Need this! And the Beatles analogy? Brilliance. Thank you, Kelly!
November 23, 2013 at 8:15 am
bnkupetz
Now that’s a kick in the butt! I better stop wasting time eating breakfast and get to work — right now!
November 23, 2013 at 8:15 am
DianeKHower
Thanks for the 2 x 4 Kelly!
November 23, 2013 at 8:18 am
Eileen
Great post! Love how the word “ass” finally wrestles its way through the filters by the end 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 6:18 pm
kelight
I wrote the first draft with all of the real words….
November 23, 2013 at 8:20 am
Christy Mihaly
Thanks for the great reminder. I’m working, I’m working!
November 23, 2013 at 8:21 am
Laura Zimmermann
Great post!
November 23, 2013 at 8:28 am
Laura Gehl
Finished reading. Time to start writing….
November 23, 2013 at 8:29 am
jheitman22
Thanks, Kelly! I am bookmarking this and reading it once a week. This is exactly the kick in the patoot I need! And congrats on your success and hard-working example!
November 23, 2013 at 2:00 pm
kelight
Patoots are made for kickin!!
November 23, 2013 at 8:30 am
nicole snitselaar
Great post ! Why doesn’t everyone let me work in peace ?? 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 8:36 am
Elaine Kiely Kearns
Thanks, Kelly! This is awesome! My new inspirational piece…:)
November 23, 2013 at 8:37 am
dzipeto
Great post! You could not have written this without all your amazing and helpful blog posts that have come before. And it hurts a little, but in a good way. Thanks.
Diana Zipeto
November 23, 2013 at 8:41 am
msmo1958
Samuel L. Jackson is a perfect muse for getting your butt in gear! Thanks for making me ask myself if I’ve got what it takes!
November 23, 2013 at 8:43 am
rosemary basham
WOW! I got the message!
November 23, 2013 at 8:44 am
Jessie Miller (@pigknit)
Love this :o)
November 23, 2013 at 8:45 am
Courtenay Schurman
Damn, my arse hurts! I’m on it!
November 23, 2013 at 8:53 am
Nancy Armo
This is a tough business. It is butt in chair everyday. It is a job not a hobby. It is showing up and doing the work everyday not waiting around for inspiration. Hanging in there when the rejections come and picking yourself up and continuing on. It is a passion. It is not for the weak of heart but for those who are willing to work hard. Kelly, I hear you and completely understand. Thanks.
November 23, 2013 at 2:00 pm
kelight
Amen sistah
November 23, 2013 at 8:57 am
Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards)
That was great! Thanks for the kick, Kelly. I needed that 😀
November 23, 2013 at 8:58 am
skeerswriter
A kick to the butt that was very much needed… but now I have to stand up to write! But write I shall!
November 23, 2013 at 9:05 am
teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer)
Now if that doesn’t leave you with a bit of an adrenaline rush–I don’t know what will. Reminds of that ‘cute?’ Saying re picture book writing “IT’S A BUNNY IT BUNNY WORLD.” So write bunnies write.
November 23, 2013 at 9:10 am
Cheryl Mansfield
Kelly, I love, love. Love this post. I’m going to print it out and hang it over my desk to re-read whenever I feel like not working. Thank you.
November 23, 2013 at 9:12 am
Maria Gianferrari
Thanks, Kelly–you’re right–nothing beats hard work!
And previous do was named Elvis, can’t wait to read that! 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 9:14 am
Maria Gianferrari
You can tell the caffeine hasn’t sunk it yet–that was supposed to say my previous dog. Sorry!
November 23, 2013 at 9:15 am
Anne Bielby
Ouch!
November 23, 2013 at 9:15 am
jdrury002
thanks for the kick in the @$$!
November 23, 2013 at 9:24 am
jen
Boot camp PiBoIdMo–love it!
November 23, 2013 at 9:28 am
Donna Black
Needed this. Thanks a million, Kelly.
November 23, 2013 at 9:32 am
Lori Dubbin
Tough love for a tough business – thanks, Kelly, I needed that. You have shined your “Light” on the harsh truth that writing is blood, sweat, and tears and honing, editing, and reediting. Ideas and fits and starts will be just that if we don’t keep moving on to the next step and molding, shaping, and reshaping our work. I’m rereading this statement from your post everyday: “Take your work in hand and hand – it – over – to be looked at by many people who know more than you.” That’s a difficult step for me. So leaving ego at door, keeping butt in chair, and thanking you for telling it like it is.
November 23, 2013 at 6:20 pm
kelight
You gotta show your work a thousand times! It gets less scary!!
November 23, 2013 at 9:33 am
Dana Arnim
Yep – persistence. You and my mom are right!
November 23, 2013 at 9:35 am
Pat Haapaniemi
Great post, Kelly! I really needed this. Plan on keeping this near me throughout the year, just in case I need a little push!
November 23, 2013 at 9:50 am
LovableLobo
Great motivational post! Thanks for the “reality” check!
November 23, 2013 at 9:50 am
Kimberly
Dang, I needed that!
November 23, 2013 at 10:01 am
cherylsec
I love this! Thank you for the inspirational kick in the backside, Kelly. It’s a reminder I needed. I’m so glad you shared this with us today. Thank you!
November 23, 2013 at 10:02 am
Jenn DesAutels
THANKS, KELLY! FULL-ASS STEAM AHEAD
November 23, 2013 at 10:02 am
Peyton Leung
Wow. That was intense!
Thanks for the uncomfortable dose of reality, Kelly. It is important to be reminded of the work required for any creative endeavor – especially if a career is to be made of it.
Bravo, Tara, for bringing so many great perspectives to PiBoIdMo!
November 23, 2013 at 10:02 am
Ashley Pedigo
Thank you Kelly, for providing a kick in the pants to someone who desperately needed one. I’ll be spending the next several years proving you wrong… I want this more. Just watch. 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 2:01 pm
kelight
I’ll be watching…
November 23, 2013 at 10:03 am
Luda K
Tough but true, super encouraging. Thanks Kelly
November 23, 2013 at 10:12 am
kathalsey
Yup, you hit me on my backside & I need it! Tough love is great at this point of the month! AND love me some Samuel L. Jacksons! I’m sure you know of the infamous pb that he reads on YouTube…GO THE $$%# TO SLEEP! I iwll not go to sleep, but work at my job, not dream, not hobby. I have been callin git “dream,” ‘nuf said!
November 23, 2013 at 6:22 pm
kelight
Get the dreams out of your head…and onto the page
November 23, 2013 at 10:15 am
Lauri Meyers
Yes, ma’am. I will now be walking backwards up to my writing desk to thwart any more kicks.
November 23, 2013 at 10:15 am
Tara Lazar
This was Royale with Cheese!
November 23, 2013 at 10:17 am
kathalsey
And on top of all that, I can not type w/out typos this AM in Phoenix, AZ. It’s raining – great day to write!
November 23, 2013 at 10:18 am
Kimberly Vogel
I’m working on a pb for a local ministry. It is only happening because of my sheer determination. (and the grace of God) The publication date has been set back time after time, but I stayed determined and we are so close to really getting this thing published! It’s been a huge lesson in how much work this writing thing actually takes.
November 23, 2013 at 10:22 am
jackiewellington21
I am planting my butt right by the pool. I am making a pitcher of sweet tea. I am not getting up until I have 500 words on paper. Thanks for this post. Writing is a job and I do treat it as such.
November 23, 2013 at 10:23 am
Dawn Young
Thanks – love this post, so real. No fairies – all factory! Get those gears grinding!
November 23, 2013 at 10:28 am
Juliana Lee
Tough Love in Samuel L Jackson’s voice…. kinda like being scared straight! Thanks, Kelly!
November 23, 2013 at 10:30 am
Susan Cabael
Best PiBoIdMo post yet! Favorite lines:
“Job. Not dream. Not hobby.”
“…an idea factory. A word factory. An image factory.”
November 23, 2013 at 10:30 am
dorothia
LOVE your post! Encouraging and real. Thanks Kelly.
November 23, 2013 at 10:39 am
Julie Hedlund
THANK YOU for keeping it real. This business is most definitely not all rainbows and unicorns (even if we write about them). But we’re lucky that our work is also our play. 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 2:01 pm
kelight
I always too my play very seriously. My barbies never had a day off.
November 23, 2013 at 10:40 am
Hayley Barrett
Kelly’s kickin’ butt and takin’ names!
November 23, 2013 at 10:44 am
Alison Hertz
Haha. Funny post. Thanks for the push. haha
November 23, 2013 at 10:47 am
lindaschueler
Wow, powerful.
November 23, 2013 at 10:48 am
Jill Tadros
I definitely want it more than you. I’m coming after you.
November 23, 2013 at 10:49 am
Janny J. Johnson
PiBoIdMo has turned me on. I’m the one with a dummy from ten years ago that’s never submitted until recently. Now I have at least 5 solid ideas and some 23 others that might have potential. It’s all I think about, all I want to do. I’m wondering how thanksgiving dinner will be prepared! 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 6:23 pm
kelight
turkey and mashed potatoes last for days…that means you dont have to cook for days after…just work
November 23, 2013 at 10:50 am
Linda Thompson
Thanks for the reality check.I’m thinkin’ I should post a pic of SLJ by my computer now!
November 23, 2013 at 10:53 am
Stephanie Shaw
Well, I think Shaft just became my new music to write to! Thanks,Kelly.
November 23, 2013 at 10:55 am
emazza1217
I needed that little slice of reality pie and it was delicious!
November 23, 2013 at 10:59 am
twinsdaddyo
Well-timed guest blog as we round third base of this year’s challenge. Kinda reminds me of President Calvin Coolidge’s quote, “…nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent…” If those words don’t make you rush to your computer, sketchbook, or kids’ section at the local library and put in the heavy lifting, then nothing will. Ms. Light, thanks for scaring the #@%! outta me.
November 23, 2013 at 2:04 pm
kelight
Be afraid.. be very afraid…
That you won’t give it your all. That’s what I was afraid of. That ultimately- I would disappoint the most important person in this quest- me.
I want to say, at the end of my days that I was ALL IN. Everything else is beyond your control.
November 23, 2013 at 11:03 am
Theanna
Thank you, great post. Nothing like a kick in the butt to get the day started. Yet your words are so true. Without putting the hard work we will never get where we want to be. Thank you for sharing!
November 23, 2013 at 11:05 am
lindamartinandersen
I got it! This was funny, but oh so true!
November 23, 2013 at 11:05 am
Donna Gwinnell Weidner
Now that my butt’s so black and blue I can’t sit it in the chair…I’m revising my PB standing at the kitchen counter…Thanks Kelly! See you at the Kid’s Choice Awards…
November 23, 2013 at 11:05 am
MichelleLynn
My gut wants to lick my wounds right now, my head and fingers want to write. THANK YOU. (ouch)
November 23, 2013 at 11:07 am
julie rowan zoch
Lovin’ this! It gives permission to call yourself an author/illustrator if that is what you are up to 24/7. Published or unpublished. And we all need that kind of kick, published or unpublished!
November 23, 2013 at 11:09 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Thanks, love your website and blog!
November 23, 2013 at 11:09 am
Sandy Perlic
Thanks for the reminder that hard work pays off. I love this: “The biggest pieces of the 1,000-word puzzle to publication are hard work, passion, believing in yourself, perseverance, persistence, patience, and opportunity.” Congratulations on wanting this life so much that you put the hard work in and are realizing your dream!
November 23, 2013 at 11:09 am
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Owie! My butt is now so sore I don’t think I can put it in my chair. I need a nap. Thanks for the tough love, Kelly. You rock!
November 23, 2013 at 2:05 pm
kelight
oh your butt is always in that chair…. I’ll kick it anyway tho
November 23, 2013 at 11:10 am
Deb Dudley
Very good post! I started off several years ago thinking I might dabble in writing and eventually realized I was addicted. As long as I can grip a pen or hit the keys on the keyboard, I AM SO IN THIS.
November 23, 2013 at 11:10 am
Jewel Sample
OOO-ahh! I seen sparks fly as your sequined purple boot kicked my wrinkled butt. Indeed molding, shaping, chiseling and picking out the burrs are what it takes to finish a worthy work for others to appreciate. Then the hard part for me begins. Scur-oot-nie…I am working through this realization that not everyone will like my literary works and to not attache their opinions to my writing identity. There are as many levels of “I love your work,” as there are faces. I endeavor to keep going. Thank you for the chuckles and encouragement.
November 23, 2013 at 11:11 am
Pia Garneau
I really did hear Samuel L. Jackson with that post! Thanks, I needed that!
November 23, 2013 at 11:12 am
LeslieG
I’m billowing! I’m billowing!
November 23, 2013 at 11:16 am
Sandie Sing
Whoa! On a quiet, Saturday morning; I get this? Holley Moley! It was a great kick in the “tush,” and I deserved it. What an interesting Saturday wake-up call.
November 23, 2013 at 11:21 am
Sophia Mallonée (@SophiaMallonee)
I completely agree and I LOVED THIS POST! Did I say that loud enough? Um, yeah. Reminded me of the speech I received during my first internship in Manhattan. You have to be so, desperately, hungry!
November 23, 2013 at 6:25 pm
kelight
You have to want it, want to do the work… but don’t get desperate…desperate people don’t think clearly. Maintain the brain!
November 23, 2013 at 11:27 am
Shannon Anderson
Thanks for the needed kick in the pants!
November 23, 2013 at 11:29 am
Jim Hill (@heyjimhill)
Role model.
November 23, 2013 at 6:25 pm
kelight
male model
November 23, 2013 at 11:30 am
kevanjatt
If I wasn’t so easily distracted by email and facebook, I would have missed this brilliant post. Now I don’t know whether to stay online looking for more brilliance, or turn the computer machine off and be productive.
November 23, 2013 at 11:33 am
Valerie McPherson
I must take this as funny. I’m begging for audiences and feedback. Two writers groups. I’d stop strangers if I thought they’d help.
November 23, 2013 at 11:35 am
Janie Reinart
Kelly you had me laughing out loud with your tough love! Great advice. Seat belts might do it! I sit on my exercise ball to try and tone while I write. 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 6:26 pm
kelight
this is something I should try! Kicks the ass in a different way!
November 23, 2013 at 11:43 am
Debra Daugherty
You’re not kidding about writing being hard work. I’ve worked harder on my stories than any day job I’ve had.
November 23, 2013 at 11:44 am
klmcmorranmaus
Thank you. I needed that reality check.
November 23, 2013 at 11:45 am
deborah freedman
Preach it, sister!
(Butt has been kicked. Back to work…)
November 23, 2013 at 11:48 am
Shirley Ng-Benitez
Top shelf Kelly. Thank you!
November 23, 2013 at 11:54 am
Jessica
This is exactly what I need to hear every now and then. Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 11:55 am
Laura Lowman Murray
Great post, Kelly. You summed up the great quote, “A professional writer is an amateur who didn’t quit” – and then took it to a whole other level. Love your line – “Job. Not dream. Not hobby.”
November 23, 2013 at 11:56 am
redheadedstepchild64
Great post, Kelly! I love me some Kelly Light.
November 23, 2013 at 12:11 pm
Heather Gale
Awesome post Kelly! Talk about tough-love! 😉
November 23, 2013 at 12:12 pm
Marge McGugan
Kelly, this is just the head slap I needed. Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 12:15 pm
kelight
I was worried this post would make you all kick MY ass! I am glad you took it as the SUPERFLY TNT it was meant to be to blow your butts into gear.
November 23, 2013 at 12:16 pm
Rachel Smoka-Richardson
Thanks for the inspiration – much needed.
November 23, 2013 at 12:18 pm
kelight
I was worried you would all want to Kick MY ass after this post ! I’m glad you took it as the SUPERFLY TNT it was meant to be to blow your butts into high gear .
November 23, 2013 at 12:18 pm
theitaliancob
Ouch! That truth hurt!
November 23, 2013 at 12:20 pm
Malena Fuentes
Wow… Sigh
November 23, 2013 at 12:23 pm
Joanne Roberts
Thanks. Perfect advice for heading into the holiday season, the new year, and the next step on the journey. Expect a thank-you card from me at this time next year for the progress I plan to exhibit.
November 23, 2013 at 12:29 pm
Rosi Hollinbeck
Always good to get a good kick in the rear. Thanks.
November 23, 2013 at 12:33 pm
janelle
Great post!
November 23, 2013 at 12:35 pm
rgstones
Just the kick in the butt I needed on a Saturday morning. I love it!
November 23, 2013 at 12:36 pm
Marty McCormick
No sugar coatings today! Honest, forthright, and wow. 10 hours a day. That’s dedication with a capital D. Thanks for the truth, even though it hurts a bit.
November 23, 2013 at 12:48 pm
Mandy Yates
Awesome post. Simply awesome. Nothing to kick you in the butt more than Samuel L. Jackson’s voice, harsh honesty, and some choice cuss words. Thanks for the motivation! 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 12:49 pm
Cindy Schumerth
Wash, lather, rinse, repeat…best advice ever.
November 23, 2013 at 12:50 pm
Lori Alexander
I WANT IT! Off to flesh out some of these ideas. Thanks, Kelly!
November 23, 2013 at 12:53 pm
Stacy Gray
Good job! My butt hurts now.
November 23, 2013 at 12:55 pm
Melanie Vickers
What a writer! What a work ethic! What an inspiration to get my butt in the chair with a seat belt!
November 23, 2013 at 12:56 pm
Ashley Bohmer
I want it more!–Look out publishing world you haven’t seen anything yet. 😉
November 23, 2013 at 1:08 pm
Michelle @ Fitztopia
I am diabolically laughing at my antibiotics even as I type… good word for the day! Why am I still sitting here?!?! 😉
November 23, 2013 at 1:11 pm
Alison
Dang. I really needed that today!
November 23, 2013 at 1:19 pm
danacarey1
You were scaring me there but I know it’s all for a good cause. You speak the truth, Kelly. Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 1:21 pm
Rosie Pova
That was a nice kick in the #%&! I absolutely agree with Kelly.
November 23, 2013 at 1:32 pm
Shawna JC Tenney
Kelly, thank you for this amazing and inspiring post!!
November 23, 2013 at 1:33 pm
Catherine Johnson
That was awesome, love those pictures.
November 23, 2013 at 1:39 pm
Sue Heavenrich
I totally heard Samuel J’s voice giving the lecture. And yes – this month about ideas. Once we get into the habit of writing, the next 12 months of fleshing out those ideas and pinning them to paper will go by quickly. Then, before ya know it, it’ll be November again! And more Pie.
November 23, 2013 at 1:41 pm
Patrick Waldron
Nice illustrations.
There are twenty four hours in a day! What do you do the other fourteen hours? I came here for inspiration and what do I get, coddling!?!
Thank you. I guess working all day is too much. I’ll ease up.
November 23, 2013 at 1:52 pm
kelight
dude if I told you how much I really work near a deadline – you might run the other way. no holidays. no vacation. no time to eat at at a table..all meals taken at desk. I am not fit for human companionship//in fact even the pets don’t want to be around.
November 23, 2013 at 11:10 pm
Patrick Waldron
Thank you Kelly, it’s a great post. This PiBoIdMo has cut my animal loose. And you are part of it. 30 ideas in the month? I am approaching 30 ideas a day! My hat’s off to you.
The Dude
November 23, 2013 at 1:41 pm
Diana Delosh
Great whip Cracking post!
November 23, 2013 at 1:47 pm
Sherry Walz
Kelly, thanks for the reality check. No hard work, no pay off!
November 23, 2013 at 1:49 pm
Dawnyelle
I am taping this post to my mirror and my studio desk. Thank you
November 23, 2013 at 1:50 pm
Dorothy Wiese
o.k. consider me kicked and butt in chair
November 23, 2013 at 1:51 pm
Catherine
Wow! That’s got me inspired………! Thank you Kelly 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 2:01 pm
Angie Jones
Loved this article! Kelly will have me thinking of Sammy J when I need a kick in the arse to do the work.
November 23, 2013 at 2:06 pm
Kristin Gray
Dude. I want the Quirks more than anybody! Can’t win if I don’t enter, right? Great post. Back to it.
November 23, 2013 at 2:15 pm
patientdreamer
wow! Now that’s what I needed. Thanks, Kelly.
November 23, 2013 at 2:16 pm
Darshana
Great post!
November 23, 2013 at 2:21 pm
kpbock
This is just what I needed! Now, if you could kindly stand behind my chair and tell me this each morning I would really appreciate it!
November 23, 2013 at 2:23 pm
katiemillsgiorgio
Thanks for the tough talk…I needed that!
November 23, 2013 at 2:24 pm
Tracy Molitors
With the holiday distractions approaching fast, I needed a kick, wherever you aimed it! Thanks, Kelly
November 23, 2013 at 2:30 pm
Barbara Messinger
Did I just spend four years in a military academy? I have my marching orders and am ready to work!
November 23, 2013 at 2:42 pm
yetteejo
Thank you friend.
November 23, 2013 at 6:29 pm
kelight
you are welcome
November 23, 2013 at 2:49 pm
happyidiots
And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who attempt to poison and destroy my inkwell.
Many thanks Kelly. I much rather imagine Samuel Jackson with your voice. 😛
November 23, 2013 at 2:52 pm
kelight
HA! That is right..this sh*t is of biblical proportions!
You should hear my voice.
Minnie Mouse after 6 helium balloons.
November 23, 2013 at 3:11 pm
happyidiots
Lol Kelly. Happy Idiots + Keith Frawley = Fellow Long Islander!
November 23, 2013 at 2:54 pm
Gaye Kick
YYYY EEEEE AAAAAA HHHHHH
November 23, 2013 at 3:02 pm
Jennifer Ali
I will print this out and post it where I can see it-and maybe even where I’m not expecting it (memory=sieve). I loved the disclaimer–tongue-in-cheek or not.
November 23, 2013 at 3:08 pm
mummyoneboob
Good to hear nobody gets a free ride. Great post x
November 23, 2013 at 3:11 pm
Alicia Schwab
Thanks Kelly, I’ve been kicking butt all day and making it happen! Glad to hear your affirmations.
November 23, 2013 at 3:13 pm
Gary Masskin
Inspirational words. The prototype for a writer/illustrator personal trainer.
November 23, 2013 at 3:21 pm
tpierce
All true, so true. If you want it, you have to work hard and never give up.
November 23, 2013 at 3:30 pm
abrianc
My problem is working really hard to the point that I’m only working! Day job plus art (and of course cleaning) as soon as I get home… Working hard is absolutely necessary but a lot can be gained from taking a small break now and then or even a weekend. As long as that weekend doesn’t turn into a week. Or two. Or 6! 🙂 Great post. I find it very inspirational! Let’s all get to work!
November 23, 2013 at 3:32 pm
Nina Crittenden
You rock, Kel!
November 23, 2013 at 6:30 pm
kelight
Neens – no you do
November 23, 2013 at 3:37 pm
Angela Turner
I have learned that writing is really hard work, but I really like hard work so I am going to keep at it. Thanks for the post.
November 23, 2013 at 3:37 pm
Crystal McIntyre
Challenge accepted! It’s great to hear the truth about this industry so you stop feeling like everyone is just more talented then you and they don’t have to work hard. Thanks Kelly for the swift $&@ kick!
November 23, 2013 at 3:47 pm
Heather Greene
Thanks…would write more, but got to get #*%^* writing!
November 23, 2013 at 3:55 pm
kjbateman
Thanks for the wake up call.
November 23, 2013 at 4:00 pm
donnashepherd
Got it!! 😀
November 23, 2013 at 4:00 pm
mona861
Wake up..wake up…One week left. Oh dear!
November 23, 2013 at 4:15 pm
Kaye Baillie
Yep, you are right, Kelly. I love getting a good talking to, keeps me honest about if I want to be a writer or not. I’m going to have to want publication a bit harder though to beat the likes of you. I have nearly finished one manuscript from this month that I will send to agent in the next few days. A whole new story that I would not have done without PiBoIdMo. Wow. It’s great. So many more to write too.
November 23, 2013 at 4:22 pm
Linda Gammon
“Never put down the pencil.” I love it!
November 23, 2013 at 4:31 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
I’d say a good kick in the butt is what you gave us and it’s just what was needed.And it’s all true! Keep those successes coming!
November 23, 2013 at 4:32 pm
Stella Jane Stauffer
This is a great, “face it kiddo,” post, Kelly.
Loved it. Thank you for posting.
November 23, 2013 at 4:40 pm
Sarah Maynard
Brilliant. Simply brilliant. Thank you.
November 23, 2013 at 4:44 pm
Perfecting Motherhood
Thanks for the pep talk! Persistence and resilience really are the keys to success.
November 23, 2013 at 4:51 pm
viviankirkfield
If I sit my butt in the chair any longer, it will meld with the furniture.:) I get to bed at 4am many nights…but, if I am being truly honest, that is because, during the day, many things (like Housework/Husband/Blogging) take me away from my Writing/Revising/Submitting. My biggest challenge is to focus on my WRS and leave the HHB to manage without me.:)
Thanks for your candid post, Kelly! Congratulations on your awesome book success…it is obviously hard-earned and much deserved! And now, I’m outta here! With pencil in hand! And butt in chair!
November 23, 2013 at 5:12 pm
Amanda Banks
Thanks for the kick in the butt. It’s just what I needed.
November 23, 2013 at 5:19 pm
Zach Roush
awesome. Can’t believe you are doing four books in one year. that’s insane! Great post!
November 23, 2013 at 5:20 pm
Michele Norman
Brilliant, though I’ll never again be able to watch Samuel L. Jackson with a straight face!
November 23, 2013 at 5:35 pm
Anne Bromley
You’d make a great coach, Kelly! Good stuff here!
November 23, 2013 at 5:40 pm
Andrea
Your post is so inspiring! Going off to get writing now.
November 23, 2013 at 5:45 pm
Mary McClellan
Sorry. Didn’t have time to read your epistle. I was too busy working to capture my dream.
November 23, 2013 at 6:31 pm
kelight
Sorry didn’t have time to look up what epistle means..too busy working on books
November 23, 2013 at 5:48 pm
Denise Bowman
Commitment is vital.
November 23, 2013 at 5:56 pm
Alisa Harris-Norico
Ha ha, great use of Samuel L. Jackson pics! Thanks for the reminders to keep at it, Kelly. Can’t wait to see all the books you’ve been hard at work on!
November 23, 2013 at 5:58 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
Straight talkin’. I like it! I remember ages ago, reading a little story in Highlights Magazine and thinking, “Well, hell I could’ve written that!!” And the truth is I could’ve. But I didn’t and someone else did. It was a revelation.
November 23, 2013 at 5:59 pm
Noel Csermak
Tighten that sweatband because it is about to get hot in here. Game on!
November 23, 2013 at 6:01 pm
Melanie
I think I may print this one out as a KIR (kick in rear) for use on those days when I’m having a difficult time getting my BIC. Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 6:01 pm
Jodelle
Thanks, Kelly. I needed that!
November 23, 2013 at 6:06 pm
Meline
Great motivating, CHALLENGING post! Buzzer rings . . . We’re off-BIC
November 23, 2013 at 6:15 pm
Ashley Bankhead
Loved this post. So true.
November 23, 2013 at 6:37 pm
Ashley Potts
Terrific post. Raw and real. A good stare from Samuel L. Jackson can work wonders.
November 23, 2013 at 6:41 pm
KidLitReviews
Terrific advice. Motivating, inspiring, and all sorts of other “ing” words. Thanks for the post.
November 23, 2013 at 7:21 pm
Debra Shumaker
LOVE THIS! Enough said.
November 23, 2013 at 7:37 pm
Andi Osiek
Motivating advice! Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 7:58 pm
June Smalls
Thank you for the swift kick in the @ that our keyboards needed.
November 23, 2013 at 8:26 pm
Ellen Pridmore
Great post, honest advice and the reality that we must set boundaries to those around us that don’t understand – no interruptions during the time we “work.” Thanks!
November 23, 2013 at 8:41 pm
Patricia Holloway
This is just the talk I need right now. Thank you, I do appreciate it. 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 8:49 pm
poppy wrote
Good post!
November 23, 2013 at 8:51 pm
intheirownwrite
Well said. Coming up with story ideas is the easy part. Developing them to submission stage takes commitment and focus.
November 23, 2013 at 9:12 pm
dee win
You. Go. Girl. Loved this. Thank you!
November 23, 2013 at 9:13 pm
Carrie Brown
Yes! Kelly! Thanks for the a- whoopin’! I crave being able to write full time again! Teaching is kickin’ my butt, too! I’ve gotta find a happy medium… rust is growing on my writing brain! But, the ideas are still flowing, and am writing one manuscript a month. 🙂
November 23, 2013 at 9:16 pm
Meg Miller
Truth!!! Here’s where I’m falling short, “If you don’t submit, nothing will ever happen. Nothing. Ever. Nada. Zip. Ze-ro.”
Thanks for the inspiration!
November 23, 2013 at 9:34 pm
orthodoxmom3
Thank you. While inspiration is great, reality is better 😉
November 23, 2013 at 9:37 pm
Maura Kay
I am loving the tough love! Thank you for your inspiring words! Much needed!
November 23, 2013 at 9:50 pm
Claire Annette Noland
Great advice to spur us to the finish line.
November 23, 2013 at 10:17 pm
Cathy C. Hall
I thought you were gonna break into John Belushi’s / Bluto’s speech from Animal House. WHO’S WITH ME?!!! Let’s GO!! 🙂
November 24, 2013 at 6:50 pm
kelight
I love that movie…. wait let me stuff my mouth with mash potatoes….
November 23, 2013 at 11:08 pm
Gloria Amescua
WOW, KICK OUR BUTTS! I needed that refresher.
November 23, 2013 at 11:32 pm
Leslee Anne Hewson
Every now and again I need a good kick in the butt! Thanks.
November 23, 2013 at 11:32 pm
Jill Siegel
Motivational! 😉
November 23, 2013 at 11:47 pm
Christine M. Irvin
Well said, sista!!
November 23, 2013 at 11:57 pm
Fashionista Philly
blistering and bleeding….blistering and bleeding
November 24, 2013 at 12:15 am
Naana
Thanks for being real!
November 24, 2013 at 12:47 am
writersideup
It is ALL about “ACTION,” woman! I can’t imagine ANYone stating it more clearly than that! Well, except maybe Samuel Jackson 😉
Enjoyed this, Kelly! Btw, great pic of you! (Your eyes are SO blue!) Quite the “don’t make me come over there!” kinda look 😀
November 24, 2013 at 6:51 pm
kelight
These blue eyes are lookin at you! Get busy
November 24, 2013 at 12:51 am
amievc
Fun post! I’d write more but I have work to do…
November 24, 2013 at 1:11 am
Julie Grasso
I LOVE IT, I LOVE THIS POST MORE THAN YOU DO, mWA HA HA. Seriously, I am so inspired…….Kelly, I will never ever be able to read anything about you without hearing Samuel roaring in the background LOL
November 24, 2013 at 1:24 am
Erin Fennell
What can I say…that was awesome!!!
November 24, 2013 at 1:36 am
Dorina Lazo Gilmore
Thanks for the challenge! That was quite the talking to… Love this: “You aren’t gonna get warm with just a spark.” So true!
November 24, 2013 at 1:49 am
LeeAnn Jensen
So right ! I sure do need a kick in the backside! I need to work harder to achieve my goals too. Sometimes obligations get in the way of our dreams and then we let them take over even when they are finished.
Thanks!
November 24, 2013 at 1:58 am
Mary Rose
Thank you! I think this was one of the most motivational posts this month. Hard work is the only way to do it 🙂
November 24, 2013 at 2:29 am
Teresa Daffern
Okay, I think I get it now. Thanks for not mincing words.
November 24, 2013 at 4:05 am
cheryllovestoread
Thanks for the kick in the butt!
November 24, 2013 at 4:30 am
bucherwurm65
Excellent post! I needed that kick in the pants. 7days a week, 10 hours a day- lemme at it!! I want it the baddest of all!
November 24, 2013 at 6:00 am
Linda Norman-Lyman
Great advice! It justifies my “b-i-c” determination and gives me hope. Thanks, Kelly!
November 24, 2013 at 7:21 am
The Ink Pond
Thank you for the awesome, honest to goodness butt kickin’ post! Five years, many manuscripts, a collection of rejections and I have not given up on this journey.
~Tia Svardahl
November 24, 2013 at 8:09 am
Jane R Cooper
Calisthenics … Hut-one, hut-two….Thank YOU (for the inspiration)!
November 24, 2013 at 8:12 am
Beth Gallagher
Well I certainly needed that swift kick in the “bahoune”! Thanks for a great post and wonderful inspiration. 🙂
November 24, 2013 at 8:33 am
RaChelle Lisiecki
Look at the big brains on Kelly! You are harsh, no doubt, but it’s true. All of it. I feel like a Big Kahuna burger at 7:30 in the morning…then I’ll start writing!
November 24, 2013 at 8:48 am
creationsbymit
BEST. POST. YET.
I love a person who can use the word ‘tuchus’ comfortably! Seriously, you should be coaching the Jacksonville Jaguars right now. Thank you.
Michele Katz/Creations By Mit
November 24, 2013 at 9:31 am
Sarah Kilfoil
Thanks for cyber kick in the seat! That’s just what I needed to hear.
November 24, 2013 at 10:06 am
Anita
Yep, go write. Now. Me.
November 24, 2013 at 10:32 am
Cindy Cornwall
Got it Kelly. It’s all about the butts: Butt-in-chair or a kick-in-the-butt, no ifs and or buts. Now I’m off to get a Royale with cheese while I write my a#% off.
November 24, 2013 at 10:47 am
Amy
If PiBoIdMo has done anything for me it is to make clear the hard work (and years) it almost aways takes to bring an idea/inspiration to full fruition. That’s good news because it demystifies the process for me; makes the process accessible to me — if I do the WORK. Many thanks! Amy
November 24, 2013 at 12:10 pm
Sharon K Mayhew
Outstanding post! If you want it, you have to put a lot of time and effort into your writing. 🙂
November 24, 2013 at 12:40 pm
Sue Frye
Wow! What inspiration, motivating and excellent BIC advice! Thanks so much!
November 24, 2013 at 12:52 pm
Kathy moncrief
I like a good a$$ whoopin’! And the end of november is the PErfect time for one! I, for one, will not let ME down! Keep lookin’ behind you Kelly, I’m coming for you!!!
November 24, 2013 at 1:26 pm
Priya Gopal
thank you for kicking our butt so graciously, I own my work and I’m work in progress too, like it
November 24, 2013 at 1:30 pm
gail maki wilson
Everyone needs a good kick in the butt to turn passion, perseverance, persistence, and patience into opportunity. Oh, I like those four “P’s”!
November 24, 2013 at 1:49 pm
S.H. Sherlock
A needed lecture! The line that stood out to me was “I wanted this more than you”.
November 24, 2013 at 2:08 pm
Franziska Green (@franziskagreen)
FAVOURITE POST!! Brilliant. Loved it all. I totally want it more than you. More!
November 24, 2013 at 2:15 pm
Yvonne Mes
What a way to wake up. I must have entered the bootcamp PiBoIdMo part of town. I don’t usually go there, but YES, I wholeheartedly agree and am up the challenge, I want it more than you 😉
November 24, 2013 at 2:32 pm
Donna L Martin
Hi Kelly!
I have participated in almost every PiBoIdMo (didn’t know about the first one) and really look forward to each day’s encouraging post. By YOU, my friend, have delivered the one, two punch allowing me to knock this year’s work out of the park! I LOVED every word and will have to print this post out to tape above my desk as a constant reminder I didn’t choose this career to be coddled but to be honest about what I’m trying to achieve with my writing and THAT will take hard work on my part…
FABULOUS POST!!
Donna L Martin
November 24, 2013 at 6:47 pm
kelight
Keep Punching Donna! Fight for it.
November 24, 2013 at 2:36 pm
colleenrkosinski
I call myself a bulldog but pit bull works well too. : )
November 24, 2013 at 2:41 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
I’m almost scared to post a response, lest I be caught not working!!! I’m going I’m going!
November 24, 2013 at 3:30 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
So “just showing up” won’t cut it. . .thanks for the swift kick, Kelly!
November 24, 2013 at 3:43 pm
Suzanne kaufman
Yes time to kick it for ever!!!
November 24, 2013 at 3:53 pm
RadSheri
I need to put more effort into this to get more success out of it I see. This is what I got from all of the posts for success. Thanks .
November 24, 2013 at 4:21 pm
marciecolleen
This post needed a soundtrack of cheers and primitive yells. I’m thinking Braveheart. Thanks, Kelly.
November 24, 2013 at 6:48 pm
kelight
You’re welcome…just don’t lift your kilt and waggle your bits at me
November 24, 2013 at 4:32 pm
danielledufayet
Thanks for your tough love!
November 24, 2013 at 5:05 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
I wil save your words and read them whenever I need a swift kick. They were just what I needed to hear. Thank you!
November 24, 2013 at 5:07 pm
Angela Padron
Ten minutes a day at least – gotta do it!!
November 24, 2013 at 5:33 pm
heather sisson
Absolutely love your advice! Im bookmarking this for the next time i feel unmotivated or down on myself 🙂
November 24, 2013 at 7:06 pm
Laurie L. Young
Kelly Light is a warrior and a genius. While I appreciate every blogger who is kind and encouraging and generous with their suggestions, Kelly tells it like it is and like it has to be if I ever want to be published. If I want to be published, I need to want it more than all the followers of Tara and the writers out there struggling to finish their masterpieces. I have to be the one who finishes. The one who continues to write. I’ve always known it would come down to this.
November 24, 2013 at 7:10 pm
Debbie Faith Mickelson
Thanks for the dose of reality.
November 24, 2013 at 7:15 pm
Fran Price
No come on Kelly, don’t hold back – tell us what you really think! 😉 Thanks for the tough love, I often try to kick my butt – but I can’t reach!
November 24, 2013 at 7:37 pm
Amy Cohas
Thanks for the kick in the tuchus, I probably needed it 🙂
November 24, 2013 at 8:28 pm
helen dening
Sometime you just have to hear the hard truths, without all the fluff. Thank you for telling us like it is! We don’t need fluffy at this point.
I appreciate your straightforwardness! Thank you.
November 24, 2013 at 8:34 pm
Meredith Pinkstone
GREAT advice! Thanks for the tough love!
November 24, 2013 at 8:37 pm
writeknit
Thank you for the COLD. HARD. TRUTH. Get serious or get out!! I got it, now will do it.
November 24, 2013 at 8:39 pm
Jen Carroll
Thanks for the tough love, which is, honestly, more important than inspiration.
November 24, 2013 at 8:41 pm
SevenAcreSky
Kelly….I’m scared to get out of my chair…I can feel your foot poised behind me.
GREAT advice….I love a good butt kickin’ and especially, “Job. Not dream. Not hobby.”
Thanks.
November 24, 2013 at 8:43 pm
MSackman
Sounds like tough love served up with a real dose of reality. Thanks for sharing.
November 24, 2013 at 9:46 pm
John Cooper
ooh… your eyes look like they mean business!
November 24, 2013 at 9:53 pm
Deirdre Sheridan Englehart
okay.. I hear you loud and clear!
November 24, 2013 at 10:27 pm
Elise Hylden
OK!
November 25, 2013 at 1:11 am
Judith Snyder
Thanks for the motivation. The real work begins now.
November 25, 2013 at 3:44 am
Helen Ross
I will keep this short as I have a manuscript to work on. Great motivational post.
November 25, 2013 at 7:03 am
One Happy Writer
Hi Kelly, it’s Monday morning; a new week, a new kick in the tuchus.Thanks for that. I’m working it 😀 All the best, sunny greetings!
November 25, 2013 at 7:39 am
kelight
Monday morning – up at 6…at desk Let’s do this!
November 25, 2013 at 7:31 am
cindyjohnson2013
Just the hoist in the heiney I needed. Thanks!
November 25, 2013 at 8:41 am
erin
I totally read this whole post in Samuel Jackson’s voice. Thanks for the kick!
November 25, 2013 at 9:28 am
Ann Birnie
Breathless but exhilarated!
November 25, 2013 at 10:09 am
Melanie Ellsworth
Kelly – I’m laughing and scared-to-death simultaneously! “You have to billow steam and pollute your life to make something that matters” may be the most unique quote on writing that I’ve ever read. It will have to go up on my office wall.
November 25, 2013 at 10:17 am
Alexa Kaufhold
Awesome. Thanks Kelly.
November 25, 2013 at 11:03 am
Prairie Garden Girl
Thank you for the *tough love* encouragement and more importantly the kick in the dupa AKA tuchus! Now, off I go to write, rewrite and rework. ~Suzy Leopold
November 25, 2013 at 11:21 am
Daniela Weil (@Daniela_Weil)
ouch, my tuches still hurts, but thanks for that!
November 25, 2013 at 12:57 pm
Debbie Austin
That meaner Samuel L. Jackson face really scared me! I’m thinking of printing it out and taping it up in my workspace to remind me that I better want it! And work like I want it! Thanks, Kelly, for a hilarious, tough, inspiring, and kinda scary post. 🙂
November 25, 2013 at 1:03 pm
wendymyersart
You are awesome! I want you for my critique partner. Love the no mess around ‘tude. Thanks for a truly great, motivational post. And call me if you ever need a critique partner 🙂
November 25, 2013 at 1:39 pm
Keri Collins Lewis
Yours is the stand-out post this season. You are 100% right — just like elite athletes, to win we must want it more than anyone else. Thanks!
November 25, 2013 at 1:42 pm
Laurie Young
Wow!!!! Now that was quite a twist!!!! Thanks for the kick in the butt!!! I am going to get off my email now and write write write!!!! 🙂
November 25, 2013 at 1:57 pm
Jennifer Kaplan
Excellent post! I nodded along as I read. Thanks for putting it all in words.
November 25, 2013 at 2:54 pm
Kathy Doherty
I get it! Don’t ever give up. Write like your fingers are on fire.
November 25, 2013 at 4:15 pm
Sandi Lawson
Wow! Amazing.
November 25, 2013 at 4:45 pm
Sue Rankin
I’m rereading this one and I will KEEP rereading this one well past needing the butt-kicking. It’s just so darn well written!
November 25, 2013 at 5:18 pm
Laura L. Madsen
LOVE IT! Thanks for the pep talk. Now… back to work. 🙂
November 25, 2013 at 6:20 pm
bangersnmashdesign
Thanks for the kick in the butt Kelly. I’m going to work hard, have passion, persevere, persist and have patience, perhaps it will pay off.
November 25, 2013 at 6:36 pm
cat jones
Thanks for the kick up the…
November 25, 2013 at 7:17 pm
Kirsten Carlson (@kirstencarlson)
You hit it outta the ballpark! So grateful you took a wee break from that art desk to channel Samuel. Perfect combo of humor, seriousness, passion and strength. I see you saying alot of “I told you so”s to those of us that tread the same path as you and tell you our tales. ; ) Happy creating, it’s a better job than any other one out there!
November 25, 2013 at 7:46 pm
writeforapples
Thanks for the post, Kelly!
November 25, 2013 at 7:59 pm
Evie Hjartarson
This was sooooo motivational. I am going to print this out and frame it! Thank you.
November 25, 2013 at 8:00 pm
thiskidreviewsbooks
Yeah! … I think… I WILL write! 😀
November 26, 2013 at 1:46 am
Lynn Anne Carol
Ouu ouch! I’ve been schooled.
November 26, 2013 at 2:57 am
Dani Duck
Great post and so true! It is a job, and it has to be your most important job as well. Its exhausting at times, but it will be worth it when I publish my first book (and my hundredth as well!)
November 26, 2013 at 9:46 am
Myrna Foster
The word doc is open. I’m going already! Heheheh.
November 26, 2013 at 1:53 pm
Lindsay Bonilla
I love this line: “Send it off. To a crit group. To an agent. To a editor. If you don’t submit, nothing will ever happen. Nothing. Ever. Nada. Zip. Ze-ro.”
I know that I can’t keep sitting on my work but have to get it OUT! Thanks for the reminder. . and also the reminder that you have to really want it to make it happen!
November 26, 2013 at 2:00 pm
Quinn Cole
I come from a line of ranching people. They seldom motivate with daisies and sweet words. I greatly appreciated this post since it validated all the hard work that I put into acquiring better writing skills. Now to submit! Thanks.
November 26, 2013 at 3:16 pm
angelapenadahle
Straight up blunt…sometimes that’s just the ticket.
November 26, 2013 at 5:30 pm
Janet Halfmann
Sometimes I feel like writing is so much work, but I still want to do it. Glad I am not alone.
November 26, 2013 at 6:10 pm
Kelly Parker
You’re right. It is so hard to remember to stay on it, all… the… time… but we must. We must make that time, every single day. Whatever it takes, you make that time. Think of all the things this world would be without, if people just didn’t put their heart into their work. Loved this post.
November 26, 2013 at 7:33 pm
Holly Bliss
Thanks for getting real and telling us like it is 🙂 I want this, and I’m gonna work hard to get it 🙂
November 26, 2013 at 9:26 pm
Debra
Very true. Commitment, hard work and perseverance go along way towards accomplishing your goals. There is no substitute. Kelly tells it like it is.
November 26, 2013 at 10:09 pm
Jacqueline
Maybe we should all re-read this every morning before getting our butts in chair.
November 27, 2013 at 12:17 am
caseyg
Standing and clapping.
November 27, 2013 at 12:21 am
blanchebaxter
Tough love, I love it! Very helpful.
November 27, 2013 at 11:23 am
mochamusing
I am committed.
November 27, 2013 at 1:47 pm
mbeaversillustration
Thank you. Needed to be said, needed to be read. 🙂
Thank you. Thank you.
November 27, 2013 at 3:47 pm
Marcy P.
EXCELLENT. “Own your work where it is right now. Make no excuses for it or where you are in your development at this very moment.” Love this. Want to live it. Going to live it. YES!
November 27, 2013 at 4:16 pm
Rene Aube
Thanks! I needed that! 🙂 Happy PiBoIdMo Day 27! 🙂
November 27, 2013 at 9:20 pm
laura516
Tough love. Thanks!
November 28, 2013 at 8:47 am
Betsy Devany
This post was sheer brilliance. So, so funny. Love it! THANK YOU!
November 28, 2013 at 1:40 pm
littledbl
Thanks! I needed this. 🙂 So right. I make so many excuses. Like I’m waiting for the right moment. But the moment is now.
November 29, 2013 at 6:16 am
Tracey Jackson
An excellent post. Tough love, for sure. Thank you – I needed that.
It shows that you have been like a pitt bull with steel jaws yourself! Those long hours and your hard work and determination are reaping rewards now. Congratulations…and I’m so looking forward to getting a copy of ‘Louise Loves Art’ when it comes out. I know my daughter will love it!
November 29, 2013 at 3:21 pm
Gretchen Haertsch
Just what I needed. You are SO right!
November 30, 2013 at 1:01 am
angiekarcher
I want it more than anyone else who read this! I want it more than you Kelly! I’m gonna go kick some PB writing Ass right now! Ruth McNally Barshaw, where can I find some Hapkido classes? I’m pissed!
Ok…this is a new approach for me but I kind of like the new me!
THIS WAS SERIOUSLY MY FAVORITE BLOG POST!!!! Grrrrrr……..
Let the butt kicking begin! = €
November 30, 2013 at 11:31 am
alwaysbedancing
Everyone needs a wake up call…lots of them!
November 30, 2013 at 1:11 pm
mellin4333
Your post made me start biting my nails again. Which means it hit some sort of nerve…
THANKS! 😀
November 30, 2013 at 2:58 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
I’ve read this post three times so far! I put a note on my calendar to read it once more today (the final day of PiBoIdMo) and then comment! Your post is THAT good…and THAT inspiring! Thanks a bundle for the butt-kicking bleeps!
November 30, 2013 at 3:40 pm
carolmunrojww
Worth reading this every morning, like it’s a PB writer’s prayer. Please, universe, make me want it more than @#&$^# butt-kicking Kelly Light. 😉
November 30, 2013 at 6:59 pm
Dana Atnip
Thanks for the kick in the butt! We all need that sometimes!
November 30, 2013 at 9:27 pm
Cecilia Clark
Dear Kelly/Samuel L Jackson, thank you. Your post sent tingles down my spine and I sat up straighter. I felt excited with the possibilities and I want it, I want it badly, I want it so much and I am on my way. xoxoxoxo
November 30, 2013 at 9:36 pm
Mindy Alyse Weiss
I used to write and revise so much, people called me the Energizer Bunny. But life got in the way the past year or so, and I’m not happy with the writing/revising pace I’m at now. I’ve been working hard to be more productive again, and this kick in the butt will definitely help. 🙂
November 30, 2013 at 9:38 pm
Tracey M. Cox
Kelly,
I really needed that 1001 wet noodle lashing I just got. Just promise me… PROMISE ME… that Samuel Jackson will not appear at my door! hahahha.
Really did like this post!
December 1, 2013 at 2:16 am
amomnextdoor
Thank you for the kick in the butt (and into December!). Here I am in CA, the last of the last reading every last word I might have missed in PiBoIdMo, before November is gone. I’ll be taking this post with me all the way into the new year.
December 1, 2013 at 6:13 pm
sketched out
Great post, Kelly! Tuchas kicked, I got to work and just now got around to commenting!
December 1, 2013 at 11:48 pm
belindambrock
Thanks for the tough love and inspiration!
December 2, 2013 at 12:11 am
Iris Diamond
Kelly, needed that kick. thank you so much. iris
December 3, 2013 at 12:31 am
Laurie J. Edwards
Thanks for the talking-to.
December 4, 2013 at 6:55 am
Jenny Blum
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! P.S. Your voice carries quite enough gravitas, you don’t need Samuel L Jackson!
December 4, 2013 at 9:44 am
Mary Uhles
LOL great post Kelly…. but I definitely want it more, see I’m only commenting now because the last several days have been filled with working;) I serve as an advisor to an art school here in Nashville and I really think this post should be made required reading for those students…. this is how any creative industry is
December 5, 2013 at 10:32 pm
Caroline
Love the perspective of “Job. Not dream. Not hobby.” Yes!