Anne Lamott will never write like Barbara Kingsolver or George Saunders. And she says, plainly, that it causes her pain. It makes her feel there is no point. That a writer as loved as she is still feels that envy is the most disarming thing in this conversation, and the doorway into everything else she has to say about finding your voice. Because the turn is this: she can write like her. She can tell her stories, in her voice, with all her tangents, and then somehow bring it all back home. That is her gift, and it is the only music she can play. Knowing which kind of writer you are matters, she explains, so you do not get hung up trying to be something you are not. John Lennon was fine not being the melodist Paul was, and it never stopped him making music we all still listen to. When the Washington Post wanted Annie to write a sociological series on aging, talking to people across every walk of life, she said no. That is not what she is good at. She writes about herself and her friends who have gotten older. They went for that instead. And then there is what happens after you find your voice. Annie describes mastery in a way that has nothing to do with getting better. The point of mastery, she says, is that there comes a time when you no longer have to try so hard. You can ease into it and let it flow. Her image is a river guide who knows the water so well you barely see them working the paddle. They are not even watching the currents anymore. They are watching the otters playing on the banks. That is what mastery is for: not to keep improving the mastery, but to become a groove through which you can turn and explore the whole world. Want to go deeper with Anne Lamott & Neal Allen? Join Sounds True One for more teachings like this. Get your first month FREE at https://bit.ly/4ctecMn Subscribe to Sounds True's YouTube Channel ► https://bit.ly/SubscribeSTYT Sounds True is a mission-driven learning and media company, and a recognized leader in wellbeing, personal growth, and spiritual transformation. Partnering with the world’s foremost wisdom teachers and best-selling authors, the company reaches millions worldwide with its unique programs, digital learning experiences, and worldwide events. The company also features a variety of original series, weekly shows, and live online experiences on Sounds True One, its global platform and community with members across more than 125 countries. Sounds True is a Public Benefit Corporation and also the home of the Sounds True Foundation. Connect with us: ▪️Facebook: http://bit.ly/2XFIIeE ▪️Instagram: http://bit.ly/2UlEoiH ▪️Website: http://bit.ly/2tOl02d