Everything good that happened in my writing career happened because someone, normally another writer, helped me. Suggested me for something, put in a good word, and so on. The idea was always that you help others and they help others in their turn. It's not a win or lose game.

I eventually learned this in my 30s and at least so far for me, it was the right call. Even if having jobs sounds far less awesome than being a full time writer.

Thank you 😊

It’s been through your crit. ❤️

I still need to learn how to do this

I sympathise. I’ve been sulking over not being able to hike.