Advice Quote by Doris Betts
![“[when]asked, “What should I do if I want to become a writer?” “Well,” Doris said, with that steely twinkle in her dark eyes, “My best advice for you, honey, is to stop if you possibly can! And if you just can’t, then get ready to work like hell. Hang onto your day job. And remember, you may not…” quote by Doris Betts](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/760/doris-betts-55041_dark-eyes_when-asked-what-should-i-do-if-i-want-to_288214.jpg)
““[when]asked, “What should I do if I want to become a writer?” “Well,” Doris said, with that steely twinkle in her dark eyes, “My best advice for you, honey, is to stop if you possibly can! And if you just can’t, then get ready to work like hell. Hang onto your day job. And remember, you may not make a living, but you’ll make a wonderful life.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Writing Advice, 1990
The best path to becoming a writer is to avoid procrastination, work intensely, keep a stable income, and accept that financial success is not guaranteed but personal fulfillment is.
In simple terms: Work hard, keep a day job, and enjoy the writing life.
Key Takeaway
Commit to disciplined work while maintaining stability.
Themes
hard work
discipline
realism
Mood
practical
inspirational
Type
advice
motivational
When to use this quote
- writing career
- freelance work
- financial planning
- personal fulfillment
Key Concepts
creative process
career planning
Questions to Reflect On
- Are you willing to sacrifice financial stability for passion?
- How will you handle setbacks?
A Different Perspective
Not everyone can sustain a day job while writing, and burnout is a risk.
