What is your definition of success? You’ve probably put some thought into that, even if you haven’t documented it somewhere. Some writers are simply happy to create, even if no one reads their work. Others put their stories, poems, comics, or memoirs online for free or via a tip-based service like Patreon or Substack. Some of us want to hold our books in our hands and are willing to DIY, while others want the validation of a traditional publishing contract. Some writers won’t be happy until they hit a bestseller list or sign a deal for the film adaptation.

You have your vision. It may be in your head or you may have written it down. You might have a spreadsheet tracking your progress or a vision board to keep you inspired. You’ve put thought into your dream, but have you come to terms with achieving it? Are you comfortable with success?

Some people are not. I’ll cop to it. We know what a successful creative life looks like on our terms, but we still shy away from fully realizing it. There are a lot of reasons. Your creativity may be marred by past shaming or criticism. You may fear growing apart from people who don’t share your same ambitions or drive. You might worry that being successful will show up your friends or family, because no one likes a braggart. You might simply believe that it will never happen for you, and have decided it’s less hurtful to not try at all.

Even when we achieve the results we desire, we may have trouble enjoying them, for the same reasons. We downplay our achievements so that we seem humble. We avoid talking about our milestones because friends and family ignore or mock them. We refuse to celebrate or enjoy our successes so that our friends don’t feel bad in comparison.

Do any of these fears hold you back? These are natural too. No one wants to fail. No one wants to be ignored or mocked. No truly successful person ever wants to make their friends feel less-than or to lose friends over career achievements.

On the other hand, are these fears well-founded? You don’t have to share your successes with people who won’t celebrate with you. Find folks who cheer you on! Will your friends really think you’re a bad person if you succeed? Will they stop hanging out with you? Doubtful. Do you have to act miserable to show that you’re still humble? Indeed not.

It’s natural to have fears and concerns that hold you back from fully embracing success. However, those fears don’t have to bind you. Ask yourself: Is there another way of addressing those fears without hobbling yourself? Can you be successful and avoid these scenarios that live in your head?

I bet you can. You’re a creative person. Write a different ending that allows you to be successful and loved at the same time.