Are you ready to be published?

That is the question I asked myself after listening to an interview by Michael Hyatt with literary agent Rachelle Gardner earlier this week. Now, don’t get me wrong. I’ve been working my tail off the past year and a half learning the craft and doing everything every agent, author and publisher has told me (or written for the masses). I want to be published. I’ve been working toward that goal. Not just so I can say I’m published, but because I long to inspire, help and encourage others with my struggles and the victories I’ve experienced because of God’s hand in my life.

But Rachelle made a very good point.

Being a writer is one thing, being a published author is quite another. Getting published opens a world of marketing and networking and business.That world is about producing a commodity and making it sell-able. It’s about promoting your writing, and being open about your experiences. Am I ready for that world?

Questions need to be asked.

Is this a hobby? Or a career? As I prepare to launch a speaking ministry to complement my writing, what am I getting myself into?

I’m taking a deep breath and proceeding with caution–and determination. Yes, I want this. Am I ready? I hope I will be when the door flings open and the lights spot me. Until then, I look at today. Be present. Be teachable. Be a writer.