1. You Are a Writer from the Start
Do you consider yourself a confident writer? If not, it’s time to start. You don’t become a writer when a book is published or when accolades come. You are a writer the moment you declare it. Just like an eight-year-old who plays soccer is a soccer player, regardless of skill level, the same goes for writing. Identity comes first—skills come with practice.
2. Let Go of the Need for External Validation
Take Isabella, a talented woman from one of my writing circles. She had written for years but didn’t consider herself a writer because she hadn’t been published. When she finally had an article accepted in a magazine, she still doubted herself. True confidence as a writer doesn’t come from the outside. It comes from within.
3. Read Widely to Write Well
To grow as a competent writer, reading is essential. Reading is not just entertainment—it’s training. It helps you see how others use dialogue, metaphor, structure, and tone. Just like a soccer player practices shots and footwork, a writer must read and analyze consistently. Without wide reading, strong writing won’t happen.
4. Writing Is for Everyone
Writing is not reserved for a talented few. It’s not mysterious or elite. Anyone can learn to write well if they commit. Sadly, many lose heart because they were told they lacked talent. These negative messages can silence a writer before they even begin. Don’t let that happen to you.
5. Encourage Yourself—and Others
In my writing classes, negativity is not allowed. We highlight the strengths in each other’s writing while gently guiding areas for improvement. You must do the same for yourself. Encourage your growth. Even Stephen King struggled with shame about his writing. Even Elizabeth Gilbert faced rejection after rejection. Yet they persisted.
Conclusion
Writing well takes time—about 10,000 hours, as they say. But it begins with one key decision: calling yourself a writer. No matter your current level, you are on the path. Believe in your identity, read widely, write regularly, and never stop encouraging yourself. That’s the true foundation of a writer.
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