You are an author, a public figure. You are going to be judged no matter what you write, so live your life in a way that’s pleasing and congruent to your soul

Admire the habits and accomplishments of other authors, but not to the extend it depresses or distracts you from accomplishing your own goals.

Keep your head down, fingers on the computer and write. Ignore the naysayers, the skeptics, the friends, church patrons or family members who provide nothing but negativity. Your story is the only one that counts. Write it.

You will never learn how to write well if you don't learn how to edit.