“I write only when inspiration strikes. Fortunately it strikes every morning at nine o’clock sharp.” ― W. Somerset Maugham
An amateur has excuses. A professional has a work ethic.
An amateur’s muse vanishes at the slightest hint of distraction. He’s a slave to the muse. The professional’s muse is a well trained coach who turns up at the right time, each time.
An amateur is reminiscing about his past work. A professional is focused on his current work.
An amateur has goals. A professional has a system. And that system is non-negotiable.
An amateur is defeated when he misses a goal. A professional delivers the work, every single day, without attachment to the outcome. The sweat of his brow is its own reward.