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Randy Kemp says: March 31, 2011 at 8:57 amJennifer:
Let me first congratulate you on leaving a career as a PhD biochemist to become a writer. It reminds me of Kelly James-Enger (i.e. see books on Amazon) leaving a law career to become a writer. Or William Sydney Porter leaving the confines of prison boredom to become a writer.
This profession is lonely. It’s probably the reason some famous writers (i.e. even Noble prize winners) indulge in large quantities of alcohol.
I’m glad you mentioned superheros. I’m eagerly awaiting this summer for DC Green Lantern and Marvel Thor movies. I identify more with the Hancock movie starring Will Smith. If I were a superhero, I’ll probably fumble things just as badly.
Yup! Superheros can’t do it alone. Which is why Hancock needed the PR agent who discovered him. Good stuff today. I love the fact you join stuff from you science background into your writing.
Randy
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Jen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 9:18 amThanks, Randy. You know, I got a tatoo of a DNA helix shortly after college because I felt “science is life, and my life is science.” So even though I’m not working directly in the field anymore, I know its influence will never leave me either.
I’m looking forward to the Thor movie too!
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Conor Ebbs says: March 31, 2011 at 9:59 amHi Jennifer,
This is a wonderful piece, and a fervent call to arms, wrists, and pens.
I think we all truly know when we’re writing something that will ruffle feathers, or alienate others. The adrenaline starts to drip like a tap until it flows like a stream, and then….we stop when we are on the cusp of insight, because we imagine the fallout.
If you have learned to embrace solitude, and enjoy it, you are learning to deal with the sting of being isolated for your views, or findings.
Michael is an inspiration. Thank you for telling his story so beautifully.
Conor
ReplyJen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 10:54 amThanks, Conor. It’s an honor to be a part of Michael’s story as well as to share it. I put in the post the quote about changing his life by funding his work. I should have also mentioned that his work changed mine.
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olga metzler says: March 31, 2011 at 10:00 amAnother excellent post that I have taken inspiration from, great job with the quotes!
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SearchBlogger says: March 31, 2011 at 10:01 amHi Jen.
I’d just like to say how refreshing it was to read a blog post that really made me think. Hope to see you contribute on here again soon.
ReplyJen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 10:40 amThanks. Me too! 
Leon Noone says: March 31, 2011 at 10:09 amG’Day Jennifer,
Thanks for the post. I started a blog about a year ago. Every so often I wonder if I should soften my message. You see, I believe that most conventional HR practices are simply not appropriate for the person running a small-medium business. And I keep on saying so.
Incidentally, I’ve worked in the field for over 40 years. I’ve reached my conclusions based on lots of practice and experience. One of my superheroes is Graham Greene who said; “Heresy is just another word for independent thought.”
Posts like yours help me to stay firm in my resolve to keep preaching, as one client called them,”Leon’s Little Heresies.” As John Wooden observed,”It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts.”
Just one other thing: make sure you have fun.
Thanks again
Leon
ReplyJen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 10:43 amLeon,
I happen to be passionate about HR practices as well, and let me tell you, you definitely don’t need to soften your message. In fact, I’d say most HR practices don’t serve large businesses either.
Love your quotes and the reminder to have fun. It’s hard when you’re trying to change the world to keep your chin up, but if we’re to serve as role models for our messages, there’s no alternative.
Jen
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Janice Cartier says: March 31, 2011 at 10:11 amThe why…very very important to keep in mind the why of what we are doing, and do it, from that place. I love this piece. Fabulously told Jennifer. Fascinating. I’ve wondered many times about those organisms and what they might hold for us to discover. Love the way you brought Daly’s story across disciplines.
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Justin says: March 31, 2011 at 10:15 amI live near a dried up lake bed in SoCal, and every winter (the only time the rain comes in the desert) the lake fills up with water.
This lets all of the sea monkey-type shrimp come to life, and the birds love having a shrimp dinner for a couple of months.
As far as the life of a writer being lonely- it’s kind of like the phrase “it’s lonely at the top”, but you aren’t always at the top so it’s just flat out not an easy career.
On the other hand, nothing worth doing is ever easy, right? People who change lives- doctors, teachers, writers- don’t have it easy, but they make a much bigger difference in people’s lives than a lot of other careers.
(I’m an engineer by trade, so I’m one of those “other” careers!)
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Patrick Garmoe says: March 31, 2011 at 10:15 amJen,
Your latest post is wonderful as always.
I wish I could force everyone in any position of power or influence – scientists, politicians, journalists, business leaders, parents – to read this post.
But the message of this post is something that sadly is absent I think in every profession.
I wish people in positions of control would keep in mind that it doesn’t matter how many people believe something, or how long they’ve believed it. They should always keep in mind that it might be wrong.
I can’t even fathom all the great breakthroughs that have been crushed because of minds with old ideas locked tight.
Given the reality that your idea is assumed wrong until proven correct over and over again, it’s critical that the agent of change – the scientist, the writer – is motivated by the right things, as you point out.
It’s about the idea, and the idea’s potential. Thanks for the reminder that spreading important ideas not only may not ultimately improve your reputation, but often will cost you dearly.
ReplyJen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 1:39 pmYes, it’s why I was initially attracted to science I think. The foundation of the field is (or should be), “Maybe I’m wrong?” That sentiment is certainly the foundation of learning, which I’m also a fan of. I’d rather be in the learned minority than the alternative, but I think that applies to all Copyblogger readers, right? Don’t they say the readers are just smarter?
Momekh says: March 31, 2011 at 10:36 amWhen I want to make a parody video of one of the political leaders here in my country, I am told not to, by my friends and family. Not because it is in bad taste (it probably will be if I was to make it though). But because there is clear, ‘rational’ fear of actual harm. And it’s just a parody. Expression is not as easy a thing in many circumstances.
Putting one’s self on the line, not for a revolution, but because ‘you find it interesting enough’ is I think very hard too, and also sometimes very important. A whole gamut of ‘artists’ did things because they were interested in them, and not because those things were (seemingly) important at the time. And they changed the world. But just like your friend, they didn’t do it to revolutionize anything, but only because they found it interesting!
I think the right type of fear, initially at least, is the thought of not giving it a shot.
It is this fear fighting that makes the heretic into a superhero. I invite the readers here to see my neck dangling by visiting my blog, and telling me if they liked it or not (the blog, not the neck). It’s not revolutionary. But then again, maybe it is.
Who. The. Hell. Knows.
And about them damn trolls: You making a video of talking into the camera and then putting it online, and then inviting your friends over to give you ‘feedback’, this will rejuvenate the fear of trolls all over again!
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Leah McClellan says: March 31, 2011 at 10:39 amHi Jen,
This is a great read, from the sea monkey bit straight through. It must be my day for reminders like this since I just read Chris G’s post for today which was along similar lines. It amazes me–and it’s why I’m fascinated with people and communication–how people react as they do to novel ideas and can’t set their emotional reactions aside to take a look at the facts, as you did when you reviewed this guy’s evidence.
I had a somewhat similar situation in college. My master’s thesis was so controversial in my rather conservative university that I was ostracized, big time. The only prof who would have understood my point was on sabbatical, and my advisor didn’t really care. But as my work was reviewed periodically, the attitudes got worse and worse (I had an assistantship so I was around a lot), and I must have had nerves of steel to continue and defend it–I’ll never forget those 6 big profs staring at me like I had killed somebody lol But hey, it was solid, and I knew it, and too bad they couldn’t see beyond their noses. Other (well-qualified) people who read it years later were blown away. And I had to say what I wanted to say, as you wrote, no matter how unpopular.
Probably have to unleash a little more of that. Thanks for the reminder
Alexandra says: March 31, 2011 at 11:28 amWOW.
Did not expect to find so much beauty in the words here today.
These sentences will stay with me daily: “it’s not about us. It’s about what we leave.”
Beautiful, reaffirming, inspirational, motivating.
Thank you.
ReplyAlexandra says: March 31, 2011 at 11:29 amSubscribing to you now.
I hope to see you here again.
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Dan says: March 31, 2011 at 11:32 amAt risk of being accused of trolling, or some other less than honorable blog responder, I’ve added some words so you see that I indeed do like what you’ve said.
What originally I wanted to post was simply this: Thanks.
Thanks sums it up really. You’ve really captured a tremendous amount of energy in this post, and I have been truly encouraged through reading it.
It’s only recently that I’ve told anybody that ‘I’m a writer’, even though I’ve been at it for a few years. To be read I think is what it is all about, and to be read with meaning is all the better. You’ve really done a nice job here.
Thanks.
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Nicky LaMarco says: March 31, 2011 at 1:03 pmThank you for writing this. I have one book that is nearly completed and am terrified of publishing it. There’s another book idea I have that I have barely put to paper because it scares me. These books only scare me because of the backlash I will get when they are published. This blog is exactly what I needed to read. I must stop caring about what others will think and care about the cause.
ReplyNicky LaMarco says: March 31, 2011 at 1:03 pmThank you for writing this. I have one book that is nearly completed and am terrified of publishing it. There’s another book idea I have that I have barely put to paper because it scares me. These books only scare me because of the backlash I will get when they are published. This blog is exactly what I needed to read. I must stop caring about what others will think and care about the cause. Thank you.
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Stacey says: March 31, 2011 at 1:23 pmWow, Jen! Thanks so much for this post! I feel like my brain grew two sizes as I read it and I know I’ll be thinking and sharing its lessons for a long time!
I’ve talked with so many people who express a strong interest in telling a story – creating something. That’s not so unusual, actually: As I’m sure you know, human beings are wired for novelty and challenge. It turns out that we are driven to create.
The sad thing (and referenced in Jon Morrow’s post) is that most people never take the necessary action to make their dreams come true, even though it’s usually just a matter of showing up and getting started. Although it may not always seem like it, simply getting started is the main thing that helps people achieve their goals. In my experience, as long as I keep going and realize that everything that goes “wrong” is making me better, smarter, and stronger, I can’t fail.
Thanks for reminding us that if we have a big (scary/lonely) dream or goal, the world probably needs us to do it. The question is whether we’re willing to do it imperfectly until we accomplish it.
ReplyJen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 3:05 pmI can think of no greater gift to give than brain growth.
You’re exactly right–you actually can’t change the world without being brave. Because if the task doesn’t require bravery, it probably doesn’t change much. Thanks for the kind words, Stacey!
ReplyStacey says: March 31, 2011 at 3:09 pmAnd I concur with Brandon: I’m so glad you became a writer! You’re shining a bright light in the world!
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Brandon Yanofsky says: March 31, 2011 at 1:29 pmThis is such a great article Jen. Informative and entertaining. I’m glad you became a writer. I’m looking forward to more articles from your blog.
ReplyJen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 3:06 pm“I’m glad you became a writer.”
Seriously, that’s just about the nicest thing you can say. Thank you!
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TravWise says: March 31, 2011 at 1:56 pmJen:
I’m loving this blog, and this post in particular was very inspiring! I have found myself sinking into this pattern of writing that I know is destroying my chances of making a difference: a great idea hits me, I dream about the idea for a week straight, I write furiously until I have about fifty pages… and then, nothing.
It’s like the idea has left me or the novelty has worn off, I don’t know. Now, I’m wondering if what has faded is that initial courage I had to write about a new idea, take something old or misunderstood and spin it in a new way, or be unconventional in the stories I tell.
I’ll have to carefully reevaluate my “writer’s block” and see if there isn’t some deeper issue preventing me from continuing. Thanks for the thoughts!
Can’t wait to read what’s next 
Jen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 3:10 pmInteresting. It could be the novelty issue or courage, as you mention. It could be both. Or it could be you just need to give the project a break, to let the ideas further gestate. Creative people need down time to give their ideas legs. You can’t just work, work, work (I say this as a creative workaholic–so trust me, it’s true).
The best writer’s block suggestion anyone gave me is to tell yourself you can’t work on something for a period of time. This does two things: 1) turns the project into a kind of forbidden fruit, and 2) allows your ideas to sprout again through rest. Try it and let me know how it goes!
P.S. One more thing: not every idea needs more than 50 pages. That’s a lot! Be sure to give yourself credit too. Your emotions may be bruised from lack of personal recognition after all that effort.
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Cherry Woodburn says: March 31, 2011 at 2:07 pmYou did it again Jen – used a fascinating science story to make your point about writing &/or careers. I enjoyed it tremendously.
Heretics must have tenacity and courage. That is a lonely road.
What I don’t understand is people get angry at the different viewpoint or ostracize the person. Is it not possible to just disagree without anger? Perhaps not, if the heretic is persistent…ever persistent.
Malachy says: March 31, 2011 at 2:10 pmReally beautiful piece. You brought me right into the room beside Michael Daly and before I knew it, I was whispering fervent words of encouragement into his ear. If nobody has told us the story of Michael Daly, then you might be the one to do it. Love to hear more.
ReplyJen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 3:11 pmI do plan to invite Michael to the post. So I’ll be sure to let him know it’s no accident if his ears have been burning. LOL
ReplyMalachy says: March 31, 2011 at 3:19 pmI’ll blow and I’ll blow until his wrinkly ears light up!
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rachel says: March 31, 2011 at 3:03 pmWhat an inspiring post! It fits in perfectly with the post I read today from Sonia Simone (?) on being bold when you write.
Although I believe firmly in what I do, I often find myself apologizing, backstepping, and generally driving myself crazy with the wimp factor. Your post has finally inspired me to be revel in the controversy-roll it around on my tongue like a good wine. Thanks.
(I almost put ” a little bit” after the word revel. I guess I need a little more work…)
ReplyJen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 8:22 pmLOL at your post script. We all need a little work. We’re taught to be humble to a fault. Revel away, you controversian!
Dawn Lennon says: March 31, 2011 at 7:09 pmYou never disappoint, Jen. I love seeing you connect your passion (and skill) for writing with your expertise in science. Funny isn’t it how the medium and the message harmonize.
Writing is often more about being alone than lonely for me. When my mind is in that place where the words are, churning up the juxtapositions that create the message, I never feel lonely. It’s only when I leave that place and revisit what has emerged that I acknowledge that it happened while I was alone.
I love your point about sticking your neck out to get your word out. We would likely not bother to write if something weren’t burning within us. I think it’s how we put our fire out while stirring it up in others.
Thanks for a wonderful post that has clearly meant a lot to everyone here. ~Dawn
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Linda says: March 31, 2011 at 7:53 pmWow, Jen–for someone who hasn’t spent any time in the world of biological research (I believe I got a “D” in biology, due to the grace and pity of the good Lord, and Mr. Shelton), I found Daly’s story fascinating.
“In fact, there’s an entire class of organisms known as extremophiles, and they are every bit as impressive as the superheroes he had read about in his comic books. These microbes can survive the extreme pressures of deep sea vents or thrive in everything from boiling water to the ice floes of Antarctica.”
This is by far the most interesting fact I’ve read all week. TY for the suggestion for a subject for Junior’s science project;).
I really appreciated your distinction b/w going against the grain for the sake of uncovering the truth, vs. embracing unconventiality b/c you really just don’t like folks…
I’m truly burning to say (and I’ve said it) that ppl create their reality through their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I believe that w a few drastic exceptions, ppl who live w depression and anxiety do so b/c they’ve chosen to. Does this make me popular? Absolutely, not. Do I care? No, b/c I believe this position represents the truth.
TY for a truly inspiring post, on so many levels. Now, off the Google “extremophiles…”
ReplyJen Gresham says: March 31, 2011 at 8:25 pmLinda,
Okay, I’m clearly biased, because I started a whole program on extremophiles in my previous work, but yes! Junior will love learning about them. Great intro into biology (as are slime molds and spores, by the way…fascinating!). I’m happy to see that science metaphors are so appreciated around here. Who knew?!
You are wonderfully brave in the work you do. I hope that fire never gets extinguished. Shine on!
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Alex Humphrey says: March 31, 2011 at 9:35 pmAbsolutely stunning article, Jennifer. This the motivation I needed as I head into the next phase of my life!
It really does beg the question of balance. Most bloggers quit after only a few months. Some make hundreds of thousands blogging; others barely make enough to pay the rent every month even though they’ve done it for years.
It’s a tough business, but a good one. What am I itching to say? That is a good question.
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