[Blog] Why You Don’t Have to “Be a Writer” to Write

There’s a good amount of pressure today for someone to have studied writing—or to have published work—before considering themselves a writer. Though writing is a part of virtually every job, and though we write with every email and text we send, the title of “writer” somehow feels intimidating. Especially for speakers, publishing a book can seem daunting for the simple fact that we often don’t know where to start.

Writing, however, is just like any other art or industry: it contains skill levels, sure; and yes, being published is a significant achievement. But there are no true exclusions in this field. Think of it like this: if you’ve taken one guitar lesson, gymnastics intensive, or undergrad economics class, you’re by no means an expert—but you are a guitar player, a gymnast, an economist. Your skill level doesn’t preclude your participation. After all, none of us are finished learning. We’re all students of our crafts.

If you’ve dreamt of writing a book but don’t know if you can ever come to see yourself as a writer, here are a few tips to silencing those doubtful voices we all hear. The truth is that anyone can write—here’s how to get started.

1.   Start Learning

When you enroll in a college degree plan, you take multiple classes in your subject matter each semester. When you sign a job contract, your first few weeks are devoted to orientation. Likewise, your first task as a writer is to inundate yourself with information about the craft. Today, there’s an abundance of ways to do this: you can watch Masterclass series from celebrated writers. You can scour YouTube and social media for advice. Blogs, author signings at local libraries, and book fairs are other great places to start.

This goes almost without saying, but good writers are avid readers. So if you don’t currently have a reading habit, it’s time to pick one up. The more you study others’ work, the more you’ll understand both the craft and your own unique voice—what you bring to the page that’s all your own. So read, read, read—and not just in your genre. If you’re looking to write nonfiction, toss a novel into your TBR pile (that stands for To Be Read, by the way). You never know what you’ll end up enjoying.

2. Practice

Yes, we’re going to require that you put words on paper—or virtual ink in a document. The good news is that you don’t just have to sit there and stare at said white space until something magically appears. There are lots of strategies, tools, and fun ways to get you started.

Word sprints are short, fun activities where you set a timer, shut your editor’s brain off, and get as many words down as possible. Don’t delete any of these at first. The goal is to write, not to write perfectly.

If you’re the planning type, before you write, start with an outline. You can outline the entire manuscript, individual chapters, or even scenes or sections. Start small, and you’ll have done much of the legwork before you actually begin.

Many authors begin as speakers. If the idea of typing an entire book terrifies you, here’s a trade secret: many authors don’t. You can use dictation and transcription services to create content in the way that feels most natural to you. Many editors and publishers are well-equipped to work with you in this way, as well.

3. Share Your Goal with Someone Else

This could be an accountability partner, a mentor, an actual writing coach, or your spouse. Regardless of who you choose, keep this circle small at first. The goal isn’t to create huge obligations for yourself, but to find someone who can encourage you…and give you a swift kick when you need one.

If you’re finding it hard to carve out solo writing time, this person might even be a fellow writer who’s working alongside you. Head to a coffee shop or jump on a Zoom call to write silently with the other person or trade notes. Though sharing your writing is nerve-wracking at first, it’s easier if you’re sharing with someone who’s also being vulnerable with you.

Epilogue

To conclude, ignore the labels and what they imply: a “writer” is just that. If you want to write a book, know that you can. People are doing it all around you, every day. Join writer’s groups on social media. Take a look at some of the writing competitions and other events happening in your area. Connect with a library or book fair to see what local authors are creating. Scour some the blogs and literary magazines available online. Listen to audiobooks during your commute or your workout. Get inspired, and soak up everything you can!

When it comes to your own writing, take it one sentence at a time. Editors, drafts, and proofreaders will come. For now, throw out perfection and allow yourself to get comfortable with seeing your words on a page. Put them away for a few days and come back to them. Recognize the cadence of your own voice. Can you hear it? That’s your writing.

Because no matter how much or how little you’ve written, you are a writer.