The Power of Perseverance

On May 1, 2019May 7, 2019 By Lorraine AmbersIn Inspirational quote, Novel Writing Tips and Inspiration36 Comments

Passion fills us with a burning desire to create, to manifest, to complete the things that bring us joy. It’s the passion that drives love, allowing us to learn, grow and develop. But what happens when that passion dries up, it no longer fills you with desire because the love has grown cold?

It doesn’t matter if we’re talking about a business venture, romantic partner or in my case writing a novel, the outcome is still the same… boredom, procrastination and maybe a bit of resentment.

The options are set; do you continue onwards swimming against the tide? Or do you bundle all of your hopes and dreams into a boat and let the water carry it off into the distance?

This is where the Power of Perseverance comes in: It’s not easy, and it’s not a golden moment of clarity and joy. This is the part where we graft for what we once believed in, safe in the knowledge that all the effort we’ve put in is worth something valuable.

Yes, maybe changes are needed to bring it into alignment with who you are today, or how your business works in an ever-evolving world. Maybe that novel won’t get published, maybe we accept that in some way we failed.

But all is not lost. Take a long hard look at the journey you’ve been on, see where all of your past experiences have enabled you to grow.

My first novel is something I’m incredibly proud of. Unfortunately, it was not picked up by an agent, and I’m fine with that. Why? Because of how much I learned throughout that process. The same applies to my second and third novels, they offer a glimmer of hope. A stepping stone to where one day I will be, whilst allowing me to improve and become great at my craft.

If I dropped my pen and vowed to never write another word, then nothing would ever be achieved.

Here are some great quotes to keep you motivated and help you on your way:

“When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hang on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.” – Harriet Beecher Stowe.

“Pain is temporary. it may last a minute, an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place. If I quit, however, it lasts forever.” – Lance Armstrong.

Stay strong, keep going and remember… I believe in you!

Do you have a favourite quote based on the theme – Don’t quit? If so, please share it. You know I love hearing from you.

Thanks for stopping by.

Until next time, Much Love.

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© Author Lorraine Ambers and http://www.lorraineambers.com, 2019.

Three Tips to Harness your Creativity

On February 25, 2019February 22, 2019 By Lorraine AmbersIn Author Tips, Inspirational quote32 Comments

Today I want to introduce my 3 tips on how to keep your creativity cup full and overflowing.

We all have divine times where our creativity is bursting into life. Where the sun sparkles, the birds chirp and we become our own version of a Disney character. Filled with the joy of a new quest, the pen becomes an extension of our essence and the words simply flow.

Unfortunately, the opposite is also true. When life has dealt us the short-straw, the world around us dulls to greys, and putting one word in front of the other becomes impossible. Some call it writer’s block, I call it writer’s burnout. The stress and strain of life take its toll. Robbing the very thing that we held most dear:

Our passion. Our creativity. Our art.

Tip One: Silence that inner critique and keep going despite its cruel taunts. Remember that every artist goes through times of self-doubt, the secret to overcoming them is to reach out to those around you for support. I’m a huge champion of this blogging community, they have become a virtual family, offering words of encouragement from a like-minded perspective. I love you all.

Twitters #writingcommunity is another great resource. For more practical advice on conquering this negative beast; read my post on Overcoming Self-doubt.

“The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt.”
― Sylvia Plath

Tip Two: Allow yourself time to fuel your Inspiration. There is an abundance of beauty in the world, use everything in your disposal to re-boost your creativity. Books, movies, art, nature or even the hustle and bustle of a busy town. Take nothing for granted. Though every story has been told before, it has never been expressed by you. So feast on the stories surrounding you and then retell the tale.

“There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and will be lost.”
― Martha Graham

Tip Three: Let’s not forget that without darkness it’s hard to admire the light. Many artists, myself included, struggle with mental health issues. In times like these, be kind to yourself and practice the steps that help you into recovery. Though you won’t appreciate it at the time, our art is often made stronger for our empathy and compassion to the burdens of life. It is the silver lining to a thunderous storm.

“One must still have chaos in oneself to be able to give birth to a dancing star.”
― Friedrich Nietzsche

Thanks for stopping by.

Do you have a tip on harnessing creativity? Why not share it with me?

You know I love hearing from you.

Until next time, Much Love.

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© Author Lorraine Ambers and http://www.lorraineambers.com, 2018.

Perseverance in your Dream

On January 28, 2019 By Lorraine AmbersIn Inspirational quote, Novel Writing Tips and Inspiration28 Comments

There comes a time in everyone’s journey to success where the depths seem too deep, the mountain too high and the dream too far.

It’s easy to talk about goals and accomplishments when were in a positive place, the true test of our resilience happens when we’ve sunk below deck, absorbed the inky ocean colours and turned midnight- blue.

During those harrowing times, self-compassion and self-love sound like fairy-tales, told to wayward travellers who can only ponder at the creatures dwelling below the surface.

girl underwater fantasy magic wrting author Lorraine Ambers — photo credit: Women Underwater via photopin (license)

For my fellow drifters, hang tight and wait for your anchor to be called home. And remember you’re not alone in the world, there are artists and dreamers who have been where you are. The glimmering sun is just beyond the surface, sometimes we need to kick, push against the tide and persevere.

Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.

– John Quincy Adams

I will leave you with a couple of inspirational quotes and links to my popular posts in the hope that they help keep you afloat.

5 Tips for Overcoming Doubt

Writers have faith in your dreams.

Enjoy the Writing Journey.

Remember, it isn’t the dreamers who have good lives – it’s the doers. Remember also what I call the three Ps of success: passion, planning, and perseverance.

– Homer Hickam

How’s your WIP coming along? Share with me your tips for perseverance. You know I love hearing from you. Thanks for stopping by.

Until next time, Much Love.

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© Author Lorraine Ambers and http://www.lorraineambers.com, 2018.

Writers: have faith in your dreams.

On December 3, 2018 By Lorraine AmbersIn Novel Writing Tips and Inspiration41 Comments

We all hold a vision of what our success looks like, that shiny dream that’s so incredibly big and bold, that at times seems unattainable. So how do you maintain the faith when life knocks you off track or your self-doubt kicks in? Well today, I’m going to give you a little pep talk for keeping the spirit of your dreams alive.

“The only thing that’s keeping you from getting what you want is the story you keep telling yourself.” – Tony Robins
Change that negative story to a positive one.

It’s important to have self-belief and crush any negativity by reading my post on how to eliminate that pesky gremlin: self-doubt.

Remember to appreciate your past accomplishments and celebrate the small steps to success. It takes hard work and determination to make it, with a lot of setbacks along the way. You need the good to smooth out the bad. It’s all about balance…. And a little bit of positivity.

I love using daily affermations to boost my self-esteam like:

I am worthy.

I am a published author.

I am capable of anything.

pexels-nature-wisdom-inspiration — Follow your dreams to the ends of the earth

“Go as far as you can see; when you get there, you’ll be able to see farther.” – J.P Morgan
And you can look back and see how far you’ve come.

Whilst working towards your dreams, its important to hold the vision, make goals and keep them, plus learn from your mistakes. You can read my post on chasing your dreams for inspiration. Don’t forget that life is all about the journey. Take time to enjoy where you are now, because nothing lasts forever, we are constantly evolving, learning and growing as individuals.

“Success seems to be connected to action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they never quit.” –John Willard Marriott
Never fear failure, it shows your trying.

Author Lorraine Ambers - fantasy romance writer

Thanks for stopping by. Do you have faith in your dreams? If so, please share them with me. You know I love hearing from you.

Until next time, Much Love.

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© Author Lorraine Ambers and http://www.lorraineambers.com, 2018.

Inspirational Quotes for Writers

On October 19, 2018February 16, 2019 By Lorraine AmbersIn Inspirational quote12 Comments

Taking inspiration from every available source is in our best interest as writers. And Einstein’s view of the world is a great place to start. Let’s take a closer look at some of my favourite quotes and how we can apply them.

maps-desk-notes writing novel ideas

“Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.”

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”

By creating new and innovative worlds we can reflect upon our own reality and lift it to new heights. Never take for granted the powerful gift we writers have, to use the knowledge that surrounds us and expand our reader’s consciousness through empathy for all characters and their circumstances.

When outlining plot and character arcs, remember Einstein’s advice: The chaos created, will need a different way of thinking, a more positive action to return the story to a harmonious outcome.

“The important thing is to not stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.”

“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”

By taking a curious look at the world around us, we create well rounded characters which in turn allow us to grow as humans.

The same applies with nature, for the fundamental building blocks are used to build literary worlds. Using sounds, smells, textures and taste. Even the patterns of how people interact. As a writer, you should become an avid watcher; take a keen interest in the vivid, vibrant world around you.

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”

“If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”

Appreciate your unique abilities to write, for no one else can tell the story the way you do, no one else has your voice to tell it in. Maybe you can’t run a marathon, or cook, or you’re terrible at maths… join the club, but we can write.

I love Einstein’s last piece of advice: If your writing isn’t clear, then your readers won’t understand it. Simple.

As always, Thanks for stopping by.

What’s your favourite Einstein and why does it resonate with you? You know I love hearing from you.

Until next time, Much Love Xx

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Positive Quotes: Create your Destiny.

On September 6, 2018August 1, 2019 By Lorraine AmbersIn Inspirational quote23 Comments

Every creator needs inspiration, a muse, a way of seeing the world around them. This week we’re taking a look inside the mind of a writer, This Writer – points a finger at her chest, to discover the journey of Creating your Destiny. Do you identify with any of the following 5 quotes? If so, what do they mean for you? Enjoy!

Dream Big and Let Nothing Hold You Back — Photo by Matheus Bertelli from Pexels

The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt. ~Sylvia Plath

From the outset there’ll be a Wicked Gremlin whispering all of your faults to you. And to be able to create you must learn to silence or at least ignore that pesky Gremlin. Set aside your self-doubt and begin.

Creativity requires the courage to let go of certainties. ~Erich Fromm

Letting go of that Gremlin requires courage. There are million and one reasons why you haven’t started, or shouldn’t carry on. But what about that one good reason to begin? Find your courage and let your imagination take flight.

Anxiety is part of creativity, the need to get something out. ~David Duchovny

It’s ok not to have your shit together. It’s ok that you have baggage. In fact, it’s bloody marvellous. Use your experiences as fuel. Like the fairy tale of the girl who spun straw to gold.

Creativity has got to start with humanity and when you’re a human being, you feel, you suffer. ~Marilyn Monroe

Take those bad times and allow them to glitter on the pages, humanity is something we can all identify and connect with.

Enthusiasm is excitement with inspiration, motivation, and a pinch of creativity. ~Bo Bennett

Now that you’re on your way, cherish your passion, knowing that the gift to create has been bestowed upon you and will carry you through the highs and lows of life.

Go create your own destiny!!!

Thanks for stopping by. Do you have a quote based on the theme: Creativity? If so, please share it with me. Or tell me which quote you most identified with and why.

You know I love hearing from you. Until next time, Much Love x

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Author self-doubt tumblr_nxeot3aztf1rj0hrio1_500

Writers – Do You Feel Like A Fraud?

On August 30, 2018August 30, 2018 By Lorraine AmbersIn Author lifestyle25 Comments

“The stories we tell literally make the world. If you want to change the world, you need to change your story.” — Michael Margolis

I often hear writers talk about how young they were when they started writing, how they’ve always been avid readers. And I admire them for that, but my journey was different. In the past, that cast a shadow over my confidence, adding to my writers fraud like complex. Oh my, I’m not a real writer… I haven’t been writing since I was five… or I didn’t complete my first MS at 16.

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” — Maya Angelou

The first story I wrote was in junior school about an alien coming to earth. The story flowed; words filled the pages of my little red text book. The problem was, I couldn’t stop. I struggled to fit an ending into the alotted time of my English lesson. I remember rounding the story off with a blunt, awful ending. I felt defeated and decided I was a terrible writer.

As a teenager, I stuck to crafting cringe worthy pop rifts and filling journals with my darkest fears and faraway dreams. I didn’t once consider myself a writer. Yet I’ve always crafted stories. I’d stare off into space and daydream: Plotting, planning, defining characters and building worlds. I had no idea that I was writing stories in my mind. I had no need for pen or paper, because I was playing out the tales in my imagination.

“There’s always room for a story that can transport people to another place.” — J.K. Rowling

We have all lived different lives. Beauty doesn’t lay in the repetition of tales, it’s in the uniqueness. Never compare yourself to others, instead revel in your own journey. No matter how difficult or ordinary it may seem… there is splendour in each tale told.

“Storytelling is the most powerful way to put ideas into the world today.” —Robert McKee

Tell my something about your life that’s special, extraordinary or perfectly simple. I’d love to get to know you a little better.

Until next time, thanks for reading and Much Love xx

© Author Lorraine Ambers and http://www.lorraineambers.com, 2019.

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“Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.”

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”

“The important thing is to not stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.”

“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”

“If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”

© Author Lorraine Ambers and http://www.lorraineambers.com, 2018.

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© Author Lorraine Ambers and http://www.lorraineambers.com, 2018.

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