by Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy
www.inkthinkerblog.com — So you’re a writer. You’ve scribbled since childhood, you’ve gained a few bylines, and now you’re serious about writing—but no one else cares. It’s vital to establish yourself as a writer in both self and community image, and it’s not as difficult as it seems.
First, believe that you’re a writer. Whether you’re writing full time or writing when you can, it’s important to believe in yourself. Remember that a writer writes, so do so as often as possible. Set up a daily time for writing, and set goals. Try to write a specific number of words or pages each day or week. Don’t stop with just writing—submit your work. The more credits you gain, the more solid your foundation as a writer becomes.
Next, spread the word. Many new writers are bashful about telling others that they write. Don’t be. When asked about your occupation, mention the day job, but add the fact that you’re also a writer. The obvious question many people will ask is, “Well, what have you written?” so answer it with the truth. If you have a few clips, mention them. If you’re working on your version of the Great American Novel, say so.
Seek out other writers. Look for writers clubs or groups in your area and attend a meeting. If no groups exist, consider starting one. Find a meeting place—such as the local library, college campus, or bookstore—and get permission to hold the first meeting. Spread the word far and wide. If you have enough clips, look for professional writers groups and join. Whenever possible, attend writers’ workshops and conferences close to home. These meetings can provide a wealth of information, as well as contacts that may help you market your work.
Establish your space. If you lack a spare room to convert into an office, set aside an alcove or corner of another room as a writing place.
Be professional.Whether you’re earning any money isn’t the issue—writers at all levels should be professional. Follow guidelines, obey industry standards, and have perfect grammar and spelling. Any submissions should be the best you can produce.
Protect your writing time. That means not allowing relatives, friends, neighbors, or others to interrupt that precious creative period. Explain that you write for that hour or block of time. Stay-at-home parents who write should establish boundaries. When the PTO calls to ask for volunteers, don’t be afraid to say no if the suggested activity cuts into your writing time. Never let others browbeat you into donating time because they think you have huge amounts of idle time to fill.
Gather the tools of the trade. A good, working computer with up-to-date software is vital today. Make sure you have an excellent printer that produces clean, clear copy. Invest in writers’ marketing guides, how-to-books, and other research materials. Don’t forget that a good dictionary and thesaurus can be a writer’s best friend. If your grammar skills need some brushing up, pick up a used grammar book and keep it close.
One of the best ways to establish an identity as a writer is to find a local or regional writing gig. Don’t be shy about approaching newspapers in your community about writing a column or book review or freelance articles on a regular basis. The more people who see a byline with your name, the more people who know that you’re a writer.
If you want to be taken seriously as a writer, you must be serious about the craft. If you view yourself as a professional, the image will project to others and you’ll gain the recognition and respect that fuel self-esteem. A solid attitude and firm belief that you are a writer can help ease the sting of rejections and encourage you to continue to strive toward the ultimate goal of becoming a successful writer!
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Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy writes full time from a rocky ridge in the Missouri Ozarks. As a member of both Missouri Writers Guild and Ozark Writers League, she has publication credits dating back more than 20 years. Visit her online at Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy.
Although this article was published by Kristen King, the original author retains all copyright and should be contacted for reprint requests.
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