Theory of Positivity

Writing embodies a solitary mindset. Until we learn to 'network' brains like computers, writers must pursue their task alone. Yes, we may use input from other authors. Yes, we may think-tank or group-think ideas, plot lines, characters, etc. Yes, we may even write group novels, books or stories.

The one absolute in this writing scenario stands that we still operate between our own ears. Thoughts that trickle out to the computer or paper emanate solely from our minds. We tap our emotional or analytical inner selves, then produce words to convey our perspectives.

No earth-shattering revelations there, right? Yet understanding this truth - writing ultimately births from a solitary endeavor - we begin to understand why positive energy becomes such a vital player in the writing experience.

Many authors, myself included, feel we write some of our best work when emotionally distressed. A certain cathartic experience overtakes our fingers and we tap out passion and emotion onto the page. When I look at what I produce when emotionally charged, I note a burst of power to my writing.

Alas, that form of writing cannot maintain itself, else the author become a hyper-depressed waste or checked in to the local 'wellness' center. One of the reasons authors cannot maintain this 'negative passion' stems from the fact that writing itself waxes therapeutic. As we create and spill our guts onto the page, in essence, we heal ourselves.

There is the flip side of the coin, however. Consider positivity as a creative muse-inducing formula. As writers, positivity fills a desperate need within us. Some of us more desperate than others. Writers crave recognition of their work. Face it, we do not write solely for ourselves even if at times it feels that way.

So, just what makes up my equation E=MC2? The 'E' stands for energy. Not energy that gets measured in kilowats, but energy to continue writing. Energy to expound upon the ideas, concepts, beliefs you as a writer desire to let out to the world. Too many writers struggle to do something I call "write scared." We should always be true to our passion when we write and not veil it behind 'vanilla' writing.

To accomplish this bold writing, we need positivity. We need a support group to stand with us, no matter what. Writing places a person in the public eye with a statement from their own personal brain, from their own individual perspective on Earth. This places a writer in a position of vulnerability - a tough place, especially when you 'write scared' and push the boundaries of what others may think of you.

I believe positivity to be one of the most powerful tools a writer possesses. To acquire this positivity, you must believe in yourself and the words you write. You must be bold, realizing your perspective on life holds as much value as anyone else's.

Successful folk persevere, not by remaining silent, not by dumbing down their words, not by writing vanilla, but by doggedly pursuing their dreams and aspirations. In fact, when you compromise your words, you sell yourself short. You feed the 'negativity' machine. There is a time an place for compromise. Learning when and where to incorporate it is important. Most often in writing, the more important move is to stay true to yourself when you write.

In my little equation, (scientific folk, please excuse the creative use of Einstein's theory), MC stands for Militant Confidence. One of the core characteristics of successful people I've observed is a steadfast 'confidence' in what they put their minds to or pursue. This does not mean they necessarily have everything figured out beforehand. On the contrary, often their dream manifests as somewhat nebulous - a diamond-in-the-rough so to speak.

Yet these people march forward, in the face of often overwhelming odds, in confidence - and Militant Commitment. I know, I know. Two 'C's' is not 'C squared'. But for my "creative" equation, a militant confidence AND commitment to staying the course brings with it loads of positivity. All the sudden, obstacles are not roadblocks but challenges to overcome. Setbacks are 're-directs' that lead to better solutions.

The gestalt end game becomes - nothing will stand between them and their dream. Not just confidence, militant confidence. Confidence that, even if a poor path is chosen, a better one will open up. A better solution will make itself apparent. The old adage, "Do what you love and the money will follow" has roots in this type of confidence.

Confidence is not believing you won't make mistakes. Confidence IS believing you will adapt and overcome any mishaps along the way, not mistakes. Commitment, militant commitment to purpose, steps in where struggles occur and shore up confidence.

When you place militant confidence along side militant commitment, your personal positive energy can thrive. You can most definitely achieve your dreams. Positive feedback from others can lead to incredible highs as a writer. After all, we write for an audience and we desire that audience to appreciate our work. This can create a massive, positivity thermal that can send you to the stars as an author.

In closing, those of us who say we thrive on our negative emotions and troubles with respect to our writing should pay as much attention, if not more, to the other side of the equation - positivity. We will undoubtedly suffer negativity in our lives. But let us not preclude positivity from our repertoire of assets as writers. Take advantage of writing on both sides of the pendulum.

The momentum of the Theory of Positivity carries many successful writers to their goals!