Learning Something New Everyday

I knew when I started my writing career seriously that I had a lot to learn. Both about the whole publishing and professional editing process. I was sure the more writing I did the better my writing would become. Meeting some of the authors I've been huge fans of for years, and other erotic authors out there doing the same exact thing I was, trying to make a name for themselves in this industry during a recession, is something I looked forward to. And three years in I still look forward to them.
I still look forward to meeting other authors like me and hold on going conversations about writing, story plots, publishing companies, and publicity strategies. Each time one of my stories get chosen for publishing and I get to work with different editors it helps me to further perfect my craft. Something I know I have to constantly do if I want my writing career to continue to grow further. Always important if I plan to write for the rest of my life, which I do. ;-)
I can still honestly say all the hard work required is still worth it. Of course I am sure other authors out there will say, 'Three years, hah. That is just the tip of the iceberg.' I agree and I look forward to all the future hurdles I'll have to face. As long as I am doing what I love and am sharing my erotic tales with the world for everyone else to enjoy then I am willing to do whatever it takes to be successful.
One of the most important things I've learned is there are a ton of talented authors out there who have been at it for a lot longer than I have and they're still trying to get that perfect contract. The beautiful deal with a publisher who wants to not only sign you but lock you in to publish future manuscripts. So many authors have aspired for these type of contracts for most of their lives and never attain one. It's almost as if it is the famous fabled golden fleece and we're all Jason and the Argonauts.
A very wise author once said that if you are in the industry of writing for the fame and money than you were in the wrong industry. And I understood what she meant, but even knowing what to expect still didn't fully spell out how rough the publishing world is for us authors. It almost borders on unbelievable under appreciation for the hours of work, time, and effort put into each manuscript developed. Not only for the authors, but for the editors, publishers, cover artists, and all the other staff members involved. If we didn't love what we did we sure wouldn't continue to slave away day in and day out.
I for one can not wait to see what new lessons tomorrow holds for me to learn.;-)