Master Class With Jay-Z

I've been watching Oprah's new OWN TV channel since January 1 . One featured series of the channel that has fast become my favorite is Master Class where various cultural icons each week have been selected to share, enrich, and inspire with their journeys to success, their life lessons, and their a-ha moments. In that vein, I will reflect on each icon's philosophy from the lens of a writer.

Hip-Hop mogul Jay-Z shared his climb to success with these three quotes.

"Believing in one self and knowing who you are, I mean, that's the foundation for everything great."

I was a writer even before claiming the title of writer. One day I made the commitment to pursue the goal of being published and this required a strong, passionate belief that I was born to write stories. No matter what profession I undertook, I would always be a writer, at heart. No matter how frustrating the journey, I had to write. Getting published wasn't in my control, however, I didn't take a back seat to my goals. I continued to write and submit my work, attend conferences, network with industry professionals. Bottom line, accepting my life's purpose, as a writer and believing in my calling were paramount to achieving any modicum of success.

"Excellence is being able to perform at a high level for a long period of time."

In the world of romance fiction, there is no other author who epitomizes this such as New York Times Bestseller, Nora Roberts. There are other notable authors who are successful with legions of fans, income, personal achievement, but the accolades that Ms. Roberts has earned over her 30 years in the business have set several records. If she ever held a Master Class in Romance Fiction, I would glady sign up and take notes. See her website for a list of why she earns a place among these icons: http://noraroberts.com/aboutnora/funfacts.html

"The work that you put into something is what you get out of it."

In the world of writing and publishing, this quote may seem inaccurate. After all, there are many who work so hard to be published and are still waiting for this fulfillment. Those who are published, and waiting to break out with a bestselling list. Yet, I understand the intent behind the advice of working hard. Working hard may not guarantee that successful outcome, but not working hard will guarantee that you will have little to no result.

My fellow writers, claim your place in this community. Respect and nurture your talent. Be disciplined and focus. Step out there and make your own footprints. Good luck!