That's really great stuff - I finished my first book when I was 17 and it was a massive rush and ego boost.

It was, in restrospect, amatuer drivel. But the mere achievement of it was very good, and has served as a good boost as I work on my current project. Simply knowing that I can put in the effort is a great morale helper anytime I feel dissuaded or disillusioned.

The feeling you are waiting for will come, but probably not soon. The euphoric rush is wonderful but the pride and sense of self-worth is a rather more drawn out affair. Pleasingly, it seems to last indefinitely.