As a question, the one about finding inspiration comes up for all writers. I’ve seen it several times in that last month, and it got me thinking: what really inspires me? I have a stock answer – other writers. It’s a truthful answer. I love hearing success stories, as it makes my writing goals feel obtainable. I love reading good writing, also, as it challenges me to write well. But, beyond the truthful stock answer, I have to admit that I’m inspired to write in many different ways. Here’s my short list:
– Deadlines – whether it’s one I force on myself, like wanting to enter my work in a contest, or the real ones that come from a contract with a publisher or producer.
– The Bills – I like to pay my bills and eat.
– Respect – when I complete my writing goals I thrive on the respect I get from family, friends and other writers. But mostly my family, since they don’t understand the creative process, but they completely understand a completed book or script.
– Me, Myself & I – while I can be my own worst critic, I’m also my number one cheerleader.
Inspiration is a funny thing. It ebbs and flows, so it’s good to have more than one source!
Ann Kimbrough 
Ann, Gaining respect from those nearest us is something so important. It validates all the hours we spend alone, while friends and family go about doing things without us, convinced we lost our minds.