Bob Bly Direct Response Copywriter Official Banner

Work advice from a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer

March 31st, 2017 by Bob Bly

In an interview with the Harvard Business Review, the then
79-year-old (now 83) Pulitzer-Prize-winning historian David
McCullough explained why he had no intention of retiring from
writing.

“I’m having a ball. I can’t wait to get out of bed every morning.
To me, it’s the only way to live.

“When the founders wrote about life, liberty, and the pursuit of
happiness, they didn’t mean longer vacations and more comfortable
hammocks. They meant the pursuit of learning. The love of
learning. The pursuit of improvement and excellence.

“I keep telling students, Find work you love. Don’t concern
yourself overly about how much money is involved or whether
you’re ever going to be famous.

I’m giving a talk at Dartmouth this week. It’s called the Hard
Work of Writing. And it is hard work. But in hard work is
happiness.”

However, there’s a flaw in David’s hard work equals happiness
equation.

Namely, it only holds when you actually like or love the work you
do.

Conversely, if you work 9 to 5, forty hours a week at a job that
either bores you or you actively dislike — or even hate — the
result is the opposite of happiness.

You feel like a prisoner or indentured slave, stuck seemingly
forever in a rut. And as my late client SK once observed, “A rut
is a grave without a cover.”

To me the 4 most important things in my life are (a) my family,
(b) our health, (c) having enough money that we are financially
secure, and (d) having work I don’t just like but absolutely
love.

Fortunately, I more or less have most of those items on the list.
I was recently in a car crash, which endangered item B for me,
but after just 4 weeks of physical therapy, I was 100% recovered.

I can’t exactly articulate why I love reading and writing so much
— I just do. I have written since the 7th grace, and now, as I
will be 60 in July, there is still nothing I would rather do.

I have other interests. I have a few hobbies. My wife and I
socialize with friends. But that’s peripheral for me.

If I can write 10 to 12 hours a day, working on projects that
interest me — and I am careful to take on only those writing
projects that do — and then read after work, I am a happy camper.

Share

This entry was posted on Friday, March 31st, 2017 at 10:24 am and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

104 responses about “Work advice from a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer”

  1. Sunny said:

    I also love to read books and i love to read this blog i had fun to read this.
    http://www.bestdealsonshopping.in/2016/08/intex-cloud-jewel-16gb-4g-smartphone-at.html

  2. Tom Andrews said:

    Bob, thanks for sharing this from David McCullough.

    It amazes me how many people get into copywriting these days because they think they’ll earn big money and have the freedom to work from anywhere.

    Thing is, whilst amazing copywriters like yourself have these “luxuries”, most new copywriters never will.

    Why?

    Because they don’t actually enjoy writing. And then they wonder why they don’t make it as a copywriter. Crazy.

    I completely agree with what David said. If you’re doing something you love, you’ll have a better chance of making big bucks, anyway.

    Too many people forget this.

    Tom

  3. Kel Mohror said:

    When you love doing something, living & “performing the doing of it” that something is never that four-letter word “work.” Rarely is it hard when it is an extension of your nature. Keep moving forward!

  4. robert said:

    Love to read the information that you have posted here. I want to say that you have created very interesting post. Keep this great work up. Call Kansas Plumber

  5. Money cheat said:

    I like this article, thanks a lot

  6. JonathonAnderson said:

    I really like his words which meant a lot. As per the uk bestessays service, most of the students are getting struggle to choose a right job. This interview will be helpful for everyone.

  7. seo services said:

    A strong way to communicate loved this.

  8. felixjoy said:

    Tweak box for your android gadget and expansion authorization to Cydia and other sharp applications. I am certain you in all likelihood discovered this guide satisfying and tweak box download likely given you quality data.

  9. Tom said:

    I’m so thankful I actually enjoy my towing job, or else I’d be totally miserable. But I like helping people out of jams!

  10. john said:

    helpful article. movavi-video-editor

  11. Tutu app latest on iphone said:

    Thanks for the post I loved it, get the latest TuTuApp.

  12. Quranic magic said:

    You can feel that wherever you go, your problems are following you. You can easily fight with some of the problems.

    duas to protect from magic jinn shaitan.

  13. islamic ways said:

    Naturally, at times, this becomes a challenge. Pleasing one may end up hurting the other. And when you have to take care of everyone’s interest, you realize there’s never a simple path to take.

    Read more Dua for Guidance to the Right Path and Making Decision

  14. Swayer said:

    I’m happy to find this section best online engagement rings store . Interesting that I learned different things about David McCullough from this and also the interview is presented in a very beautiful way without any blunders. I liked it very much. I’m looking for more interviews like this.

  15. change destiny said:

    Powerful Mantra To Remove Negative Energy can be use to remove negative thoughts and to remove negative energy from home. Our negative energy removal mantra will remove whole negative energy from your life.

    Powerful Mantra To Remove Negative Energy

  16. studybay.com is a good service said:

    This is an amazing site and highly recommend anyone who is in a crunch for time to use this website their writers are excellent and finish on time. I highly recommend this site. You can read studybay.com reviews and make sure it’s a safe service.

  17. Devid said:

    Love to peruse the data that you have posted here. I need to state that you have made exceptionally intriguing post. Keep this incredible work up.
    Regards,
    practice management software

  18. Lead management system in uae said:

    Love to scrutinize the information that you have posted here. I have to express that you have made particularly interesting post. Keep this mind boggling work up.

  19. Yousuf siddiqui said:

    first of all you should know about what is Pulitzer i have shared some information with you

    The Pulitzer Prize (/?p?l?ts?r/) is an award for achievements in newspaper, magazine and online journalism, literature, and musical composition in the United States. … The winner in the public service category of the journalism competition is awarded a gold medal.

    full information:https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulitzer_Prize

    Regards,
    best computer courses in karachi

  20. speedypaper review said:

    Before graduating from the University, students are expected to write many assignments that take the essay format. I know the company that takes the opportunity to extend its services to a team of writers to ensure the students access help with their overwhelmingly demanding essays. The speedypaper review
    will help you decide on the best writing service for writing the perfect essay

  21. Schedule builder said:

    liked your content keep it up

  22. Phdessay.com said:

    We just started using phdessay.com and I am very pleased with the professionalism and quality of writing we have experienced. They have done an exceptional job! I highly recommend.

  23. Keira Neal said:

    From time to time, yes, but not all the time, it is quite frustrating you know.

  24. Tracy Wyvern said:

    https://yardofdeals.com/
    https://yardofdeals.com/collections/kurta-pajama
    https://yardofdeals.com/products/men-pink-solid-kurta-with-pyjamas-by-treemoda-4
    https://getmetoy.com/

  25. primevisne said:

    Thanks to the author for this post, it was very interesting for me. You can read or write your thoughts on this with the help of the https://essaysservicesreviews.com/ that I myself use. Once again I thank the author for this information.

  26. Norton setup said:

    This is an informative blog. Keep it up. I am looking forward to this kind of blog. Thanks for sharing it with us norton.com/setup

  27. mcafee setup said:

    Thank you for sharing this blog , It is an amazing blog , I am really impressed by your blog , It’s really useful mcafee.com/activate

  28. himanshu sharma said:

    This is an informative blog. Keep it up. I am looking forward to this kind of blog. https://www.updatedcelebrities.com/ines-trocchia/

  29. vivek sharma said:

    good blog. https://www.updatedcelebrities.com/jennifer-delaney/

  30. Hardy said:

    Thanks for the update and quick reply. I’ll be sure to keep an eye on this thread MyGroundBiz

  31. Sandra Dugan said:

    like it!! Would you like to update your blog with more information? I have a blog https://5fe467e96c0dd.site123.me/blog-1/how-to-turn-on-microphone-on-android-phone and these blogs are more informative for your phone settings and windows settings

  32. GeorgeBurkholder said:

    Hey, this was an exceptional post …. I like it .. I recommend you to read my informative blog which is about microphone sensitivity…. From this blog you will find out why it is better to adjust the microphone sensitivity settings.

  33. Kathleen Moorhead said:

    Looks great work, I really appreciated this quality work. Nice post!! Keep up the good work. If you are looking for a site that can provide you information that may work for your business or other work, then our profile is a fake details generator .

  34. Ann L Baldwin said:

    This type of message always inspiring and I prefer to read quality content, so happy. I also have an interesting article on topic Typing Speed. In this article you will learn about how to type fast with accurately. Visit us and must read our article.

  35. Camping Coffee said:

    Hey, this day is too much good for me, since this time I am reading this enormous informative article here at my home. Thanks a lot for massive hard work. http://campinghacks.launchrock.com/

  36. merrinferin said:

    Yulu Miracle Electric Bike is your dream companion for finding the undiscovered in cities.https://www.evinformer.com/yulu-miracle-electric-bike/

  37. Chinki Minki said:

    Informative article.

  38. Jack payne said:

    I see the most famous content on your blog and I extremely love expressing them. Really nice and interesting post oliver tree jacket

  39. Nora Hall said:

    Thank you for bringing to a halt my long search topic. I benefited from your content. I found many interesting things in your blog, especially its discussion. Wheel spinner is a very useful interesting blog please Go this link and enjoy this tool yes or no picker wheel

  40. James said:

    We have the latest, most designed movie and celebrity leather jackets and coats. Just visit our James Norton Clare Things Heard And Seen 2021 Jacket website for more ?

  41. One Dasty said:

    Home Pug puppies and French Bulldogs make wonderful family pets. electing a new pug puppy or French Bulldog is a daunting task. You want one that is healthy but also comes with a pleasant personality and is adaptable to your lifestyle.
    https://pugslandbreeder.company.com

  42. McOrlando said:

    All of Pitbull AKC registration a basic health guarantee and a 3 year genetic health guarantee. They have been raised in our home around small children, kittens and dogs of every size to help them develop well round personalities accustomed to daily home activates. We encourage families to ask question and to stay in contact with us.
    All puppies sold as pets will go home spayed-neutered! We also sell puppies along with breeding right. Note this will an additional fee.
    https://pitbullbreeder.company.com

  43. PKBiswas said:

    Good information. I love this blog.
    https://gkindia.in

  44. Riya said:

    nice article
    https://www.cookwithmou.com

  45. Timothy Roberson said:

    First You obtained a wonderful blog site. I will certainly want even more comparable topics. I see you got truly very valuable subjects, i will be always inspecting your blog site many thanks. You can also visit article written by me to learn about What is text-to-speech. This is the latest post I have written with lot of efforts on researching. Please do visit https://app.box.com/notes/820505566099?s=28jxpfqx4larfs8yzfrbfbqxyjhgqt57 and comment you views.

  46. robert said:

    Throughout the years,exotic kittens and the occasional litter of gorgeous Bengals, Servals, Savannah and Caracal kittens.my family encouraged me to pursue my dream and develop my own line of Exotic kittens.
    https://savannahbengal.company.com/

  47. Melvin P Reynolds said:

    Favorable website, where did u come up with the information on this uploading? I have read a few of the write-ups on your site now, and also, I actually like your design. Many thanks a million as well as please maintain up the reliable job. I also have to suggest you the latest post related to Gaming in the Cloud. Here you will get to learn more about microphone if you are beginner. Refer to article https://rbxgamingpro.weebly.com/blog/roblox-gaming-in-the-cloud and learn more.

  48. Spacebar Test said:

    I found some very interesting things on your blog site. I think I’m not the only one who has all the fun here! Keep up the good work. To learn more about Space Key Not Working Please see article https://spacebartest.blogspot.com/2021/07/Space-Key-Not-Working-on-Windows-10.html. Here you will read Fix the Spacebar. Thanks for the attention.

  49. www mcafee com mtp retailcard said:

    webpage and trust that the record will download.The presentation of Microsoft Office has been a leading jump forward. Over the new numerous years, Office saw some critical updates with the expansion of new features no matter what, and the latest Office Arrangement available today is 2019, which can be downloaded from and moreover the latest structure has four varieties – Microsoft Office Home and Understudy, , Home and Business.
    Sign In or Make another Microsoft Record.

  50. www.mcafee.com/mtp/retailcard said:

    programmers, infections, phishing tricks and secures your organization and online character. Through mechanized reinforcement, which just finds a way one way to reestablish, it guarantees the security of your photographs, recordings, music, and significant individual documents. McAfee Total Protection permits you to impart your records to your family easily.you’ll see the choice “Purchase Now” and select the arrangement you need to purchase.

  51. jacob said:

    http://printercontrolcenter.com/
    https://ij-start-canon-setup.com/
    https://installprint.com/canon-com-ijsetup/
    http://allinonexpert.com/printers/canon-com-ijsetup-some-brief/

  52. iver said:

    http://thehelpingguide.com/printers/canon-com-ijsetup-install-canon-printer/
    http://canon-com-ijsetup.com/
    http://geeksready.com/solutions-brother-com-windows/
    https://brother.printers-setup.com/solutions-brother-com-windows/

  53. james said:

    https://marktick.blogspot.com/
    http://asinghblog.com/solutions-brother-com-windows-setup/
    http://support-brother-windows.globalguideforall.com/

  54. PUNISHING GRAY RAN said:

    Hey this is very great post. I really Appreciate this.

  55. AshleyRMassey said:

    You wrote an informative article, which I enjoyed reading. You put in a lot of effort. Share these types of information and continue your work.I have also written aboutUltimate Camping Guide recently. Check it out by visiting camping guide.

  56. Nancy Cummings said:

    Thank you for this wonderful article. Setup should continue! My latest post is about 3 Important Factors That Influence Reading Speed. We like to visit How To Calculate Average Reading Speed. Thank you so much for your concern.

  57. Samuel Harrigan said:

    It’s a great article and also very pleasant. You explain the meaning of happiness by doing our favourite work consistently. Keep sharing. Here is another excellent article about camping tent lights which can be beneficial during an outdoor camping.

  58. Jessica Parker said:

    The title of this blog post is something I’ve never heard of from blogs I’ve read. It’s good to read your blog posts about the checklist for blogger containers. This is a real post I share with you where you can read Check Your Clicking Test. Please refer to the article Butterfly Clicking.

  59. Andi Duferense said:

    Have you bowed down before the here and powerful Oz? No, I’m not referring to the fictional wizard from Dorothy’s magical land. I’m talking about mass-marketed medical guru and Oprah protégé, Dr. Oz. And while he may be powerful, the scientific community is not convinced that his recommendations are all that great.

  60. Wisdom Pharma said:

    Get the best dark circles creams. So, buy from Wisdom Pharma and get high-quality dark circle Creams online.

  61. Enem Mall said:

    Buy trending polo shirts online in Pakistan from Enem Mall.
    Enem Mall has a huge variety of boxers for men in Pakistan to buy online. visit now.
    Buy trending t-shirt for men online in Pakistan from Enem Mall.

  62. Saba Khan said:

    Here I am for the first time, and I found beneficial information. Very nice and well-explained article. Thanks for sharing!
    list of water treatment companies in dubai
    and water Treatment company in Dubai UAE

  63. Matka API said:

    Very nicely written.
    Satta Matka API
    Matka API auto result
    Matka API
    https://matka-api.gowebs.in

  64. Shop ECS said:

    Buy shoes online from ECS to make you footwear comfortable. The ECS is providing quality products which are cost-effective as well.

  65. Priyanka Tiwari said:

    Great post
    Pyar kya hai
    Vajan kaise badhaye
    MRI full form

  66. Konnor said:

    Everything is very detailed and helpful.

  67. ShopECS said:

    Check out formal clutches from Shop ECS which are adorable and high-quality products.

  68. Real Estate Agent In Long Island said:

    Real estate Agent In Long Island NY been working in this business for the last 12 years and with 12 years of experience, we continue to grow every day and serve our customers. Buying or selling a property is stressful but we will make it fast and easy for you

  69. Metro Shoes said:

    Metro shoes offers their customers the highest quality luxury Pret and party wear dresses Get the best available dress designs in Pakistan

  70. Preerti said:

    Are you interested in studying in Dubai and looking for Scholarships in Ireland? Then I have an article for you. Where you find Ireland Education System, 5 Top-Ranked Universities of Ireland. An English-speaking country with world-renowned universities, Ireland is friendly and safe. This nation offers students affordable tuition fees and offers cheaper accommodations for international students, which makes it internationally recognized. The institutes of Ireland offer many master’s programs in a 1-year format.

  71. Lisa said:

    Nice article. Thanks for sharing. If you want to get more information about uptime monitoring then you can visit here

  72. Mincraft Room Design said:

    I like your advice which thinks are you writing in your article is so unique and true. Share this type of article. If you want to learn about gaming I have the one, which can change your gaming experience and give you the Minecraft storage room design ideas.

  73. Ndure Shoes said:

    Take advantage of the amazing shoe sale from Ndure to grab high quality footwear at affordable prices.

  74. Chinyere said:

    Best Pakistani casual dresses are offers by Chinyere to improve your wardrobe. Buy ladies dresses Pakistani from Chinyere to look elegant in every functions.

  75. Ndure Shoes said:

    There are always amazing sale on brands on the Ndure website, bringing amazing footwear and apparel.

  76. ??? said:

    ??????????????????????????? ?????? ??? ???????????????????????? ???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

  77. Rios Cosmetics said:

    Powder foundation and glamorous face powder. The store aims to provide satisfaction through high quality products like Powder foundation. Grab their powder foundation online, it is perfect and just what you need Rios fulfills your every demand, with their Face Powder products.

  78. David  said:

    In today’s world technology plays a very important role and everyone is want to complete their work as fast as they completed. That’s the reason I created the Right Click Counter test in this as fast you click on the mouse right button your ability to do work with the mouse also changes. So must visit and know what your speed is.

  79. carls12 said:

    Business Analyst produces reports that will be presented to Microsoft end-customers, sellers, and partners. You will take data collected from their infrastructure environment to create business analytics and a Cloud Migration Business Case for presentation to the Customer. You will have strong Business Analysis and Power BI capabilities to empower customers to better understand & manage their current infrastructures.

  80. ash12 said:

    Affordable Flights by FlightsnTravel give you an amazing and relaxing flight zone to move from one country to another with your family, friend, or with your love one where ever and when ever you wanted to go.

  81. Richard Holmes said:

    Your article is attractive and informative. Thanks a lot. I would like to share this profile with you which is about Microphone Test. This profile shares information about the mic test tool. This tool checks your mic free of cost.

  82. 123bet said:

    Great post, I’m impressed! useful information

  83. hokabet crypto said:

    I’m especially interested in the content of these articles, they’re great. Keep going, I’m rooting for you in your next work.hokabet crypto

  84. dpboss result said:

    I have been following Dpboss for quite some time now and it’s amazing to see how it has grown over the years. I think it can attract more users by offering more betting options and improving its user experience.

  85. Maples Closet said:

    Buy trendy sling bags for women at Maples Closet, the ultimate destination for modest fashion in the UAE. Explore our exquisite collection of sling bags, expertly designed to combine functionality with style, complementing traditional Islamic clothing while embracing modern fashion standards. Elevate your wardrobe with our elegant and versatile sling bags, available for purchase now.

  86. Maples Closet said:

    Experience the elegance of traditional Jellabiya dresses with Maples Closet. Browse our online store to buy Jellabiya dress online in UAE, embracing the allure of modest fashion. Discover our exquisite collection of abayas, bags, and more, and elevate your style effortlessly. Shop now for the perfect blend of tradition and modernity

  87. BSNS Consulting said:

    BSNS Consulting is a leading digital marketing agency providing comprehensive solutions to businesses in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and throughout Pakistan. We specialize in helping businesses establish a strong online presence, drive targeted traffic, and achieve their digital marketing goals.

  88. Dropwarez said:

    Step into the world of e-commerce mastery with our collection of the best Shopify dropshipping stores. These beacons of success have mastered the art of curating exceptional product selections, fostering customer loyalty, and creating seamless shopping experiences.

  89. Vidmate APK said:

    VidMate is a useful Mp3 Converter for people who like to listen to music on streaming apps. With VidMate you can not only save time from switching among different music players, but also Download Vidmate plenty of albums and songs for free and even save high-quality music videos in mp3 format.

    https://vidmatedownload.me/

    https://vidmatedownload.me/download/

  90. PUF Panel Sheet said:

    i read a lot of stuff and i found that the way of writing to clearifing that exactly want to say was very good so i am impressed and ilike to come again in future..

  91. Subhash Shastri said:

    You have lots of great content that is helpful to gain more knowledge. Love Spell for Vedic Astrologers

  92. Dainik Astrology said:

    You should take part in a contest for one of the highest quality sites on the web.
    love relationship solution

  93. Rahul Shastri said:

    Love to read it, Waiting For More new Update and I Already Read your Recent Post its Great Thanks.
    Speak To Astrologer

  94. Vallee Real Estate said:

    Discover lucrative investment opportunities with our selection of office buildings for sale. Whether you’re an investor or business owner, our listings offer premium options for your needs.Find the perfect commercial property to meet your business needs and investment goals. Start your search for prime office spaces today!

  95. BabyBoxShop said:

    Discover a delightful selection of baby gifts perfect for celebrating the arrival of a precious little one. From cute and cuddly plush toys to charming keepsakes, our collection offers a range of options to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a practical gift or a heartfelt gesture, we have the perfect baby gift to bring joy to both parents and their bundle of joy.

  96. Vallee Real Estate said:

    Looking for the perfect place to call home? Explore a wide range of apartments Condos for sale in prime locations. Find your dream property with our expert real estate team’s guidance.
    Our listings feature diverse options in prime locations, ensuring you find the perfect property to call home.

  97. Tiptop-Einrichtung said:

    A friseureinrichtung outlet is a store that offers discounted furniture and equipment for hair salons. Here, hairstylists can acquire high-quality furnishings at more affordable rates.Discover fantastic deals and discounts on hair salon furnishings at our Hair Salon Furnishings Outlet. Whether you’re a salon owner looking to revamp your space or a hairstylist in need of high-quality equipment, our outlet is your one-stop destination for affordable and stylish salon furnishings.

  98. CAvpshost said:

    CaVps provides reliable services of VPS hosting in Canada. Hosting your website or application on our Canadian servers ensures low latency, fast response times, and compliance with Canadian data privacy regulations. Our Canadian-based support team is available around the clock to assist you with any technical queries or concerns you may have.

  99. Vallee Real Estate said:

    Our Burnaby realtors have a deep understanding of the local market. Whether you’re buying or selling property in Burnaby, our dedicated Realtors are here to assist you. Explore our listings and experience the best in Burnaby real estate with us.

  100. Tiptop-Einrichtung said:

    A barberstuhl is a specialized chair used in barbershops. It is designed to provide comfort to male clients and facilitate optimal working posture for the barber.hese chairs often have a classic design and can be antique or retro-styled.

  101. Vallee Real Estate said:

    We are one of the leading real estate brokerages in the area, known for our professionalism and commitment to client satisfaction. They serve as intermediaries between buyers and sellers of real estate and play a crucial role in the real estate industry.Let us help you achieve your real estate goals.

  102. Vallee Real Estate.. said:

    Experience urban living at its finest with apartments for sale in Richmond. Discover a diverse selection of stylish condos and apartments in this bustling city, known for its rich culture and convenient amenities. Start your journey to homeownership in Richmond today.Explore our listings to discover modern condos with stunning views, conveniently located in this thriving community. Your ideal Richmond apartment awaits.

  103. Ginkgo Retail said:

    Ginkgo Retail stands as an innovative domain, illuminating the pathway to streamlined and efficient ecommerce order management process. This platform serves as a beacon of innovation, offering businesses a systematic and intuitive approach to handle their order workflows. With a user-centric interface and meticulously designed features, Ginkgo Retail facilitates seamless orchestration and optimization of the entire order management process. Its sophisticated design ensures a smooth and efficient process flow, empowering businesses to navigate complexities effortlessly. Ginkgo Retail epitomizes reliability and efficacy, providing a robust foundation for businesses to thrive in the dynamic landscape of digital commerce.

  104. Ginkgo Retail said:

    Ginkgo Retail’s Multi Sale Channel Software streamlines operations across multiple platforms, optimizing sales potential with ease. Seamlessly integrated and user-friendly, it simplifies management while maximizing outreach. With global compatibility, it ensures a broad market presence while maintaining centralized control. Experience efficient, effective, and comprehensive sales channel management with Ginkgo Retail.

Leave a Reply