I was expecting applause but I suppose stunned silence is equally appropriate.
– Dr. Sheldon Cooper
Big Bang Theory, The Thespian Catalyst
Being a writer is often a solitary adventure. So when you share the milestones that come with starting out, brace yourself – you may not get the whooping response you wanted.
After publishing my first five blog posts, I asked my closest friends, “Did ya see it? Huh huh huh? Did ya, did ya?”
One mumbled, with her head down as she scrutinized her salad, “Yup, it’s got stuff on there.” All others were silent, afraid to squish my burgeoning enthusiasm but as clueless about what to say as Sheldon Cooper at a bridal shower.
*Deep sigh* Well, thanks for reading it. Or at least I think you did.
When I made my first submission to Writer’s Digest, my fiancé smiled and said, “You’re cute.” Then he kept playing his video game. (Poor timing on my part?)
Hey, I expect to be shot down [and I was], but it’s my first submission to a major publication. C’mon honey, work with me here.
When I finally avoided overextending myself, I called Mom to celebrate. After all, she’s seen me spend years putting work before my health and sanity. Her response? “That’s great honey. Guess what…I got new bookcases for half-off!”
Did I hear a “great” in there? I think I heard a “great.” Was that a “great”?
The fiancé has gotten better. When I first earned 100 blog followers, he patted my shoulder and his smile clearly said, “I hope I’m doing this right.”
Your loved ones may not mean to lack the proper enthusiasm; they just may not understand why you’re clapping and bouncing around the room yelling “yippee!!”
And in all fairness, we may not always understand their milestones either. But we still cheer for them like they do for us.
If your loved ones are trying to be supportive, thank them. Appreciate your loved ones for the support they show. But don’t forget to be your own cheerleader, too.
But is it really a big deal? Or am I just being a silly noob?
Who cares? It doesn’t have to be huge. You achieved something. So, even when it seems like you’re the only one cheering, cheer anyway.
And write down your milestones. Reading over your accomplishments and remembering how great they felt will help keep you going, especially when you feel overwhelmed.
Got a milestone you want to share? Leave a comment. I’ll cheer with you.
Rubber Ducky Copywriter 
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