I loved school. I could have done without the drama. The hormonal boys and over-sensitive girls made me crazy. So did tests. And the self-imposed pressure to succeed. Other than that, I loved being in school because I’ve always loved learning. That’s one thing I’ve never given up, even though I have my degree.

L is for Learning.

The most successful people are those who never stop learning. I don’t have the stats to prove it, but I’m sure it’s true. Just look at the people around you, especially the successful people. If you’re a writer, check it out at your next writer’s conference. Don’t just see who’s teaching the classes. Scan the class to see who’s attending. 


Last year I went to the American Christian Fiction Writer’s Annual Conference. It’s the event for writers wanting to break into Christian fiction. I couldn’t wait to go to the classes and learn from some of the most successful writers, agents, and editors in the business. 


When I got there, I realized many of my favorite authors were there, too, but they weren’t teaching. They weren’t looking for agents, either. Some of these men and women had dozens of books published. They already had contracts and connections. So what were they doing at the writer’s conference?


Learning.


They weren’t attending the conferences because they’re successful and wanted to show off. They’re successful (and can show off) because they attend the conferences. They haven’t stopped learning about their craft and the business, so why should I?


Do a little research, spend a little money, and invest in your future. Go to a conference. Buy some books. Just don’t stop learning.