The writing-life doesn’t look like other career-fields. A lot of what we do happens when we’re home alone or in a corner of the local Starbucks. We keep strange hours. We write every day for hours at a stretch or we work in snatches of time on the weekends. We write on the back of napkins and across the front of church bulletins. Our brains never shut down.
We’re an odd lot to those around us.
Here are a few of my favorite questions…
So, what do you do?
I had to take a sword to a few doubts and insecurities, but I got to a place where I could verbalize my life’s calling without stuttering, “Well, actually, um…I’m sort of like…a writer.”
I’m not sure why the journey to admitting writer-hood is so difficult. I mean, I’ve never asked someone what they did for a living and they came back with, “Well, um…I’m kind of a doctor.” Or, “I’m…well, I’m trying to be…um, an architect.”
So, let’s get this question settled in our minds. Are we writers? Great. Then we must be able to say it—with confidence.
I. Am. A. Writer.
When are you going to write a novel?
Now, if I’m a novelist, this is an easy one. I plug my latest work or give a teaser about my work-in-progress.
But I’m not a novelist. At this point, my brain doesn’t work that way.
For example, when I witness a child throwing a tantrum in the grocery store, my mind shifts into overdrive: Wow. That rascal is really pitching one. His poor mother. Hmm…kind of like me, huh Lord? I may look calm on the outside, but inside I’m throwing a tantrum—rebelling—against Your plans and purposes.
Or I see a drama sketch unfolding…what if the Pastor starts his message, and we have a child “pitch one” beside the pulpit. We could add scripture and talk about the condition of our hearts…
These are my writing instincts. What are yours? However you are wired, your role in the writing world is vital.
Novelists are real writers. So are those who write devotionals, skits, short stories, biographies, articles, etc.
No more feeling like we don’t “measure up.”
Practice this: “I write devotional material (or short fiction, or children’s books, or…).
Is it wonderful to stay home and not work?
Fantasy answer #1—“Yes, it is wonderful. I love, love, love it. The words flow, the publishers snap them up, and my bank account grows. Life. Is. Good.”
Fantasy answer #2—“Not work? Are you kidding me? I agonized over an article for hours yesterday. I edited until my eyes crossed. I woke up at 2 a.m. with an idea that I had to get on paper. I’m under two deadlines and want to finish a proposal…”
Better/safer answer—“Actually, I’m a writer and I work from home. I am challenged and fulfilled and I can’t imagine doing anything else.”
What’s your favorite writer-question? How do you respond?
However you are wired, your role in the writing world is vital. #writerlife #amwriting Click To Tweet Are we writers? Great. Then we must be able to say it—with confidence. #writerlife #amwriting Click To Tweet
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6 Comments
I am asked, “Will you help me write my book?” I tell them that I am still learning but could give them a few pointer. I also direct them to Almost an Author. Great post, my friend. Keep up the great work.
Thanks for the encouragement, Cherrilynn! And yes, I’ve also sent a few folks to Almost an Author 🙂
It has taken me years to work up the courage to say, “I am a writer.” I am still working on saying it without the apologetic tone and the ums.
Lisa, I know! It’s like we expect to be challenged–“Really? Are you SURE you’re a writer…?” Let’s keep encouraging each other! We. Are. Writers. 🙂
Leigh Ann, thanks so much for the encouragement and affirmation. “Novelists are real writers. So are those who write devotionals, skits, short stories, biographies, articles, etc.” I usually feel like I don’t measure up because I’m not a novelist and probably never will be, but my calling is writing for children and families. I’m learning to listen to His call and not the expectations of self and others. 🙂
Gail… THANK YOU for following God’s call to write for children and families! What a treasure! And thank you for your encouragement. It’s a constant battle to focus on pleasing God and not become overwhelmed by the expectations of others. Keep writing!!