Celebrating our writing commemorates who we are—as individuals and as fellow writers. We are unique people who believe in the power of communication through the written word. We bring special talents to different genres and are thrilled when readers value our work.

Measuring success by others’ standards is not the way to celebrate. Negative thinking and comparison lead to discouragement and often to abandoned projects. Instead, we embrace who we are and our unique talents.

What does it mean to celebrate writing?

Let’s revisit our original goals for choosing this craft:

* We believe writing is a calling to bring enlightenment to the world.

* We value increasing our knowledge of the craft and the publishing industry.

* We understand that writing entertains, inspires, encourages, and teaches both the reader and ourselves.

* We embrace the idea that reading and writing go hand in hand.

* We engage in the celebration of writing.

Our goals foster community, and we thrive on filling the empty places in readers’ lives with quality content. Pursuing our dreams means recognizing our efforts and successes. Here are five ways to celebrate writing:

1. Acknowledge your writing journey—not to glorify yourself but to affirm how far you’ve come.

* When did you first hear the call to write?

* How did you begin?

* List your accomplishments.

2. Reflect on your progress.

* What goals have you reached?

* Take time to appreciate your writing journey.

* How have you overcome inappropriate criticism and rejection?

* Reflect on your milestones.

* How have you grown mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually?

3. Host an online or in-person event to share the joy of writing.

* Make it a true party!

* If in person, choose a location where food and beverages are part of the celebration—don’t forget balloons and party favors!

* If online, schedule games and prizes. Books or gift cards from retailers that sell books are a fun way to celebrate. Attendees could contribute a few dollars or donate a gift.

* Introduce and praise every writer in attendance.

4. Treat yourself to something special—engage in an activity that brings you joy.

* Take a vacation, go shopping, enjoy a meal at a favorite restaurant, or visit a museum or even the zoo.

* Spend time on a beloved hobby.

* Enjoy time in nature to soak up the peacefulness.

* Indulge in pampering: a spa treatment, massage, manicure, or pedicure.

5. Set new goals that stir your sense of adventure.

* Challenge yourself to write in a new genre.

* Explore new techniques for marketing and promotion.

* Splurge on a special writing conference.

* Read widely across genres.

* Have fun!

No matter how you choose to celebrate writing, make it memorable. You are part of a grand party.