So You Want to Be a Writer

For the best part of a decade, I have dedicated myself to being a writer. I have spent countless hours with pen and paper, computer and keyboard, thoughts and stories. And in all honesty, there are days when I want to quit. Nobody prepares you for the reality.

Don’t get me wrong, I love what I do. But if you’ve ever considered being a writer, we should discuss what you can expect.

Being a writer is often romanticized as a dreamy pursuit filled with inspiration, creativity, and boundless imagination. While these aspects certainly play a role in the writer’s life, the reality is far more nuanced. Behind the scenes, writers grapple with many challenges that test their resolve, resilience, and dedication to their craft.

One of the most significant challenges writers face is the inherent solitude of the creative process. Unlike collaborative endeavours, writing often requires long hours spent alone with one’s thoughts, grappling with self-doubt and inner criticism. The solitude can be isolating, leading to feelings of loneliness and disconnect from the outside world. That’s only the beginning.

No matter how experienced, every writer encounters creative blocks and moments of self-doubt. Whether it’s a blank page staring back at them or a storyline that refuses to unfold, these challenges can be frustrating and demoralizing. The pressure to produce quality work can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, leading writers to question their abilities and worth as storytellers.

Contrary to popular belief, inspiration doesn’t always strike like lightning. For many writers, finding inspiration is a deliberate and disciplined practice that requires seeking creativity in the everyday mundane. From observing people on the subway to eavesdropping on conversations at a coffee shop, writers learn to mine the world around them for nuggets of inspiration to fuel their stories.

For many writers, pursuing their passion also comes with financial and practical considerations. The harsh reality of the publishing industry’s fierce competition and uncertain prospects can make it challenging to sustain a career solely through writing. Writers often find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities, such as day jobs or freelance work, to make ends meet while pursuing their creative endeavours. I have made $0 as a writer. I’ve spent more money on being a writer than I have in making any. Crazy, right? And that’s not even the worst of it.

The harsh truth is that rejection is inevitable in the writing world. Whether it’s receiving a rejection letter from a literary agent or facing harsh criticism from readers, writers must develop thick skin to weather the inevitable storms of rejection. Learning to separate constructive feedback from personal attacks is essential for growth. Still, it can be a painful and humbling process. Believe me, I know.

But if you’ve made it this far, and I still have your attention, let me tell you what keeps me going.

Despite the myriad challenges they face, writers persevere because they are driven by an insatiable passion for storytelling. They understand that the journey of being a writer is not just about the destination but the process itself—the moments of struggle, the flashes of inspiration, and the joy of bringing thoughts, characters and worlds to life on the page.

Yes, there are days I want to quit. Sometimes, a well-thought-out article or story gets a handful of hits, no likes, or negative feedback. It’s hard to keep going. You will ask yourself, “Why do I do this?” I guarantee it. But when you get that one piece that resonates with your readers, it feels like the clouds above you have parted, and you can move the stars themselves.

So, being a writer is a journey fraught with challenges but also an enriching and transformative experience. Through perseverance, resilience, and unwavering dedication to their craft, writers navigate the ups and downs of the creative process, emerging stronger and more resilient with each story they tell. So, to all the writers out there, keep writing, keep dreaming, and never forget the power of your words to inspire, provoke, and change the world.

Keep going! It will be worth it.