What does Ms. Pac-Man have to do with your writing success?

When I was a kid, my mom was obsessed with Ms. Pac-Man. She didn’t care how long it took or how many quarters she spent. Her only goal? To reach “Banana”—the game’s highest level. That was her marker of success.

What’s your version of “Banana”?

If you’re chasing bestseller lists or blockbuster deals because everyone says that’s what success looks like, let’s pause. Because here’s the truth: If you let someone else define success for you, you’ll always feel like you’re falling short.

Success isn’t one-size-fits-all. And if you don’t take the time to define it for yourself, you’ll never know when you’ve already won.

Let’s break it down.

5 Surprising Ways to Redefine Success

#1 What’s the one thing that defines creative success for every writer?

It’s not perfection. It’s not praise. It’s the work. Did you finish the thing? Nail that tricky scene? Solve a plot problem that’s been driving you nuts?

Every small victory in the creative process is a win. Celebrate that. Every. Single. Time.

#2 How can you measure growth when you’re feeling stuck?

Success doesn’t always feel like winning. It’s often hidden in the grind—in the days you show up and keep going even when it’s hard.

Are you a better writer than you were six months ago? Did you learn something new? If so, you’re already winning.

#3 Does touching one reader matter more than selling a thousand copies?

The books that changed your life probably weren’t the ones that sold the most copies. They were the ones that spoke to you, changed you, or made you feel seen.

If your words connect with even one person, you’ve created something priceless. That’s success.

#4 Why building connections could be your biggest win

Writing doesn’t have to be lonely. The relationships you build—with readers, fellow writers, or your creative community—might be the most valuable thing to come out of your work.

Success isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people. Show up for them, and they’ll show up for you.

#5 Is Financial success really about buying an island?

Making money from writing is a legit goal. But here’s the trick—you have to define what “financial success” looks like for you.

Maybe it’s covering your publishing costs. Maybe it’s making a full-time income. Either way, it’s just one part of the bigger picture.

What if you want it all?

“But, but, but…” you say, “I want it all!”
(Cue Queen’s “I Want It All.”)

Amazing. Dreaming of bestseller lists, fame, and million-dollar sales? Go for it. Just know this: Ed McMahon isn’t showing up with a big check.

Big dreams require big action. If you want it all, you’ll need to think like a businessperson, not just a writer. That means planning, marketing, and showing up consistently.

There’s no shame in dreaming big, so long as you're prepared for the work.

Your Success Story Starts Now

Here’s how I think about it: Success is like leveling up in a video game. Writing “The End” on your first draft? That’s Level 1. Publishing your book? Level 2. Connecting with readers? That’s Level 3.

But the ultimate win? Doing something you love and having fun while you do it. That’s my “Banana.”

What’s yours? Hit reply and tell me your definition of success—I’d love to hear it. And who knows? Your story might inspire someone else.

Hello!
My name is Jocelyn.

Story warrior, book lover, day dreamer, gardener, and creative. I help serious writers roll up their sleeves, get their novel ready for publishing, and reach readers. When I’m not elbow-deep in the story trenches, I’m outside world-building in my garden and battling weeds with my three criminal mastermind cats.