How to Become a Writer

First things first, this is just the tenth article I have published on Medium so do not expect big tips and professional advice. What I want to achieve with this blog post is just sharing some insights based on my brief experience of being a blogger and yes I know this is ‘too soon.’ Meanwhile, I am pretty sure you will get this article inspiring and educational that you might as well think about being a full-time writer.

Tip #1 – You don’t just become a writer, you just have to be born as one.

Although this may sound a bit arrogant and insensitive, it is the universal truth. Writing is more of a talent than a skill. Because, if it had been a skill, why would the not-so-academically successful among us become professional writers? You just have to have a deeper interest in it. You just have to not feel as if you are working while you are writing. The words need to flow without you not giving so much thought to them.

Tip #2 – You can’t output what you haven’t inputted.

This one is obvious but needs much attention if you want to publish good works throughout your endeavor of becoming a writer. Pick a niche topic and try to be familiar with it. Read about it and research more. I know it’s tempting to write about something without getting to know more about what you want to write about. But, you should be cautious and work on not failing for The Dunning Kruger Effect.

“The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are so certain of themselves and wiser people so full of doubts.”

— Bertrand Russell

Exposure is the whole basis for creative works. There is no such thing as a novel idea or original work. Artists, philosophers, and even scientists have been borrowing the works of one another to present some marvelous content and inventions. You have got to take inspiration from others’ crafts. You should invest time in exposing yourself to ideas and others’ works.

When I was in college, there was always one classmate in every creative writing workshop who claimed, “I love to write, but I don’t like to read.” It was evident right away that you could pretty much write that kid off completely. As every writer knows, if you want to be a writer, you have to be a reader first.

— Show Your Work, Austin Kleon

Tip #3 – Make a room for boredom!

Boredom is the mother of creativity. You won’t publish your next article if you jump off onto social media as soon as you feel bored. Let your mind be creative enough to get out of boredom. Let your next hit of dopamine rush has risen from some productive thing you did.

Check out ‘5 Boring Ways to be more creative-an an article by Mark Manson for more on this.

Tip #4 – Use the right tools!

If you happen to love writing on a piece of paper, do that. If that’s the easier way for you, you are not obliged to type on a personal computer. But, if you use word processing apps by any means, consider using apps like Grammarly to check your spelling, grammar, and every little thing you need to publish astonishing works.

Tip #5 – If you have never shared your work yet, can we even call you a writer?

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Don’t shy away from showing off what you’ve worked on. Open your mind to constructive criticism. Use social media to share your writings. Medium is a great place to publish articles. I am sure there are also other platforms to share other kinds of writing out there.

Finally,

I want to make sure that you know these are not the only right ways to become a writer. I have listed these based on my personal experience. I am confident that these tips may get you started but if you need more professional advice you better check out sites like Wikihow and read from respected authors and writers about being a writer. Goodbye, aspiring writer!