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If You Can Stand It, Play the Long Game . . . What I mean…

“If You Can Stand It, Play the Long Game . . . What I mean here is that you have to remain committed to the ultimate goal, which isn’t to win the immediate approval of the online world, or dazzle a workshop, but to improve your storytelling day by day. Finding the right balance of…” quote by Steve Almond
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““If You Can Stand It, Play the Long Game . . . What I mean here is that you have to remain committed to the ultimate goal, which isn’t to win the immediate approval of the online world, or dazzle a workshop, but to improve your storytelling day by day. Finding the right balance of feedback—encouragement versus vigorous criticism—will help immeasurably. But your own commitment has to be to the process of improvement, not to the anticipated reward. If it’s any consolation, I’m still working on this final lesson.””

Steve Almond

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Commit to continual improvement rather than seeking immediate praise; balance feedback to grow your craft.

In simple terms: Focus on long‑term growth, not short‑term approval.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize process over reward.

Themes

growth feedback storytelling commitment

Mood

determined reflective

Type

inspirational practical

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • online publishing
  • personal projects
  • creative mentorship

Key Concepts

deliberate practice resilience self‑improvement

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you filter criticism to stay motivated?
  • What daily habit supports long‑term storytelling growth?
A Different Perspective

Feedback can be overwhelming and may stall progress if not filtered.

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