Ten Things I've Learned Since Signing My Book Contract

1. Getting paid to write does not take the fun out of it. 
2. Just because they love it doesn't mean they won't ask me to rewrite some of it.
3. My publisher trusts my imagination.
4. My agent is my book's first and last supporter. 
5. As my writing improves, I become more aware of my flaws.
6. The contract is the beginning of the publishing journey, not the end.
7. People respect my work hours now that writing isn't a "hobby".
8. After basic structure, editing is foremost about clarifying.
9. Good writing comes second to good storytelling.
10. Outside affirmation is a component of success, but true success is not needing it.