Everything I Ever Wanted to Know About The Writing Life, I Learned While Watching Survivor

The finale of the 26th season of Survivor aired this past Sunday night. Congratulations, Cochran!

While some folks have a sincere dislike for reality TV, I find that sitting in the comfort of my recliner, watching people under extreme situations, is a good learning experience.

Survivor is a lot like the Writing Life.

~You'll meet all sorts of people from different backgrounds. You don't have to like each other, but we're all on this island called 'Earth' and on a tribe called 'Writers.' Let's work together. 

~You may have a strategy for reaching your goal, but the game changes every day. Stay on your toes.

~Of course, you should always be nice, but being nice doesn't guarantee a spot in the final three (or get you a book contract.)

~Eating bug larvae is like writing queries. It's gross and may leave a bad taste in your mouth, but it won't kill you, and sometimes it's a necessary evil.

~Being nasty to others makes for good ratings, but it's likely to come back and bite you in the a**.

~Form an alliance. We all need someone that we can trust.

~Connect with people. It's nice to have a group that will commiserate and celebrate with you.

~I'm amazed at the number of Survivor contestants who can't start a fire. I wonder why they don't learn a little about survival before going to the island. You should always do some research! 

~Be proud of your accomplishments--whether it's the immunity necklace or a short story acceptance, revel in the accomplishments. You earned it!

~Expect change. Ordinary people can do the most extraordinary things. You will grow in ways you never expected. With each new challenge, you'll find that you won't look at yourself the same way.

~It's okay to celebrate your successes. Just don't rub it in other people's faces. 

~If you're an amateur, learn as much as you can from the people who've done this before, but veterans should beware of becoming too cocky. You could get blindsided.

~Be humble. Nobody likes a know-it-all or a does-it-best.

~And the most important thing I've learned from Survivor: It is absolutely, positively unacceptable to give up!

Well, gotta go. It's time for me to watch 'So You Think You Can Dance.'

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