As a writer, I’m always looking for stories that inspire, uplift, and motivate me, and one of my all-time favourite novels is Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel. Not only is this book a beautiful blend of magical realism and Mexican culinary traditions, but Esquivel’s personal journey as an author is also filled with lessons about perseverance, creativity, and breaking through boundaries. Today, for our Monday Motivation, I want to share how her story can inspire you to keep pushing forward in your own pursuits, no matter what obstacles come your way.
From Teaching to Storytelling: Following Your Passion
Laura Esquivel didn’t start her career as a writer. In fact, she was a kindergarten teacher before she ever considered writing fiction. But even though her professional path began in the classroom, her passion for storytelling was always simmering beneath the surface. This shows us that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Life might pull you in one direction, but if your heart is in a different place, you owe it to yourself to listen.
I often reflect on this when I think about my own journey as a writer. It wasn’t a straight path, but it was the right one because I followed my passion for storytelling—just like Esquivel.
Turning Rejection into Opportunity
One of the most motivational aspects of Laura Esquivel’s journey is that she didn’t find success immediately. Like Water for Chocolate faced rejection from publishers who didn’t know what to do with a novel that blended recipes, family drama, and magic. Can you imagine one of the greatest works of magical realism being turned down?
Rather than giving up, Esquivel persisted. Eventually, her novel found a publisher, and it went on to become a bestseller worldwide. It’s a powerful reminder that rejection doesn’t define our worth or the potential of our work—it’s just part of the process. For all of us, whether we’re writers, creatives, or anyone working towards a goal, the key is not to let rejection stop us. In fact, it should fuel us to keep going.
Embracing Creativity and Authenticity
What I love most about Like Water for Chocolate—aside from its captivating love story and enchanting use of food as an emotional conduit—is how authentic it feels. Esquivel wasn’t trying to fit into a particular mould or genre. She wrote what was in her heart, blending her cultural heritage with magical realism in a way that was entirely unique.
This is something I strive for in my own writing—authenticity. It can be tempting to write what you think will sell or to follow trends, but real success, I believe, comes when we’re true to our own voices. Esquivel’s work is proof that being yourself and telling the stories only you can tell can lead to something extraordinary.
Keep Evolving
Another inspirational element of Esquivel’s journey is that she didn’t stop after Like Water for Chocolate. Success didn’t make her complacent—she kept growing, evolving, and challenging herself. She’s written novels, plays, and essays, always pushing her creative boundaries.
For me, this is such a motivating reminder that we should never stop growing. Whether it’s as writers, creatives, or in our personal lives, there’s always more to learn, new ways to expand, and more stories to tell.
A Lesson for Us All
Laura Esquivel’s story is one that shows us how perseverance, creativity, and authenticity can lead to incredible success. So, if you’re facing rejection, self-doubt, or creative blocks, take a leaf out of her book (pun intended) and keep going. You never know where your unique voice and passion might take you.
Remember, it’s not about how quickly you succeed—it’s about staying true to yourself, even when the path feels uncertain. That’s what Like Water for Chocolate and Laura Esquivel’s journey teach us. And if that’s not motivational, I don’t know what is.
Let’s take that energy into this week and keep pursuing our dreams, no matter how daunting the path ahead might seem.
Wishing you all a productive and inspiring Monday!
Do you have a favourite novel or author who inspires you? Share in the comments below—I’d love to hear your thoughts.
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