When you're so close you can taste it

There are days that I just want to give up, because it's very frustrating to come close to what you deem as success but miss the mark. These are the things that I think about to encourage myself so that I will keep on trying:

• I have a working computer which makes the act of writing easy. Even when I don't feel like it, I need to take advantage of the opportunity I have to write and be grateful for it.

• I've had quite a few personal notes from agents and editors. Even if they don't represent me or buy my work, it's important to realize that it means I'm at least on the right track when a busy publishing professional takes a moment to encourage me.

• Writing is work, but it's also fun. Even if no one ever buys my book, I'm glad that my fourteen-year-old son can't wait for me to complete the next chapter, even in rough draft form.

• I have a circle of writing friends who continually challenge me to improve my writing ability. They cheer for me when I achieve my goals and rally around me when I don't.

• I remember that writers such as Les Edgerton and James Scott Bell have written great books that I can read and reread. I am so thankful that they share their great knowledge so I can learn more about writing instead of having to find things out the hard way.

What do you do to encourage yourself when you have become frustrated on your writing path?