Stefan and I recently had this conversation. He said that one thing that drives him to work his ass off to succeed in stand-up comedy is that he never wants to end up back in his hometown. It’s that tiny mid-western town that isn’t close to much and doesn’t offer a lot of opportunity, and they’re not fond of artists. They’re all over the Midwest. I come from the same kind of place, and he asked if I’m motivated by that same desire to stay away.
I’m not, really. My motivation is sort of the opposite–What keeps me working is seeing the people who are where I want to be. I’m motivated by meeting people who are doing what I want to be doing, showing me that it’s possible, sharing bits of wisdom and encouragement along the way.
What motivates you? Are you driven to get farther than where you came from? Are you running toward something you think is better than where you are?
Filed under: Writing tips + ideas
