We all want to be the one. Some where deep in our hearts, no matter how altruistic we might feel our works,

might be, we all truly want to write something special. When we wax poetic in prose, and smile that huge self satisfied smile while reading it aloud, we are thinking one thing and one thing only, “This is the greatest thing I’ve ever written. Others should read this and love it as much as I do.”

Maybe it is just me. Maybe I am the lone dreamer left out there in the crowded literary landscape, one lone wolf among millions of trudging, do it for the dollar, dime store hacks. But, I doubt it. I have had the privilege of working with some stand out talent recently and I can not afford to be so self centered that I believe I am the only one writing for the bloody recognition. I want two things personally, a Nobel Prize for Literature and a Doctorate. And, the truth be told, I will trade the Doctorate for the Nobel Prize in a spittin’ second. I don’t know about you my dear Friends and Fans but I want to write a classic, or a “next great”, or a best seller. I want my literary prowess to be known far and wide and I know you do too.

Well, with that high handed idea in mind, and because I am such a nice guy, and such a busy Jr. Editor, I will step out and give you some more of my patented, “How to get published with Open Heart Publishing” tricks and tips. Last time we discussed this I gave you three steps on how to win us over. Now I am going to give you a few ways to jump from the short list to the finals.

My FIRST Word of Advice: Take the recommended changes to under careful consideration. Nothing worse than putting your creative foot down and finding yourself excluded entirely from the final published few. There are, believe it or not, some very good reasons for the suggestions your editors make. I used to have the defensive stance when it came to my work and, I can promise you, it wasn’t until after I gave a little that I started to gain a lot.

My SECOND Word of Advice: Show interest in your works success. I mean, come on, this one should go without saying. It’s your work and I know you are proud to see it in print. Don’t settle for being published. I know you want people to read your work and the work of the brilliant writers that made the cut along side you.Share your success. Take interest in the contest and work hard to be the winner of the coveted Open Heart Publishing book deal. The competition is stiff and I can tell you, the only way to win is to keep pressing forward.

My FINAL Word of Advice: Relax. Seriously, this may not be the first story you’ve had published and if it is the first it won’t be the last. Take this opportunity as a chance to learn how the be a better writer. Use it as an opportunity to hone your craft and pad your resume. Use this opportunity to grow your brand and get your name out there. And have some fun with it. Take the chance, do the work and prosper.

I want to be the “Next Great” and I know you do too. Don’t hesitate any longer. Send us your stories and let us see your talent. But Please, follow the Guidelines. Until next time.
Merry Christmas.