Stop Identifying as a Writer If You Aren't Writing
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Chapter 1: The Weight of Words
The first time I encountered the phrase "Stop calling yourself a writer if you don’t write," it felt like a punch to the gut. The impact was intense, resonating deep within me.
For months, I wrestled with that discomfort, unable to act on it. I can’t even recall where I first read those words, but I know they have circulated widely. A quick search will reveal many who have shared this insight.
In truth, those words were the whispers of my inner critic—echoing sentiments I had internalized over the years. Yet, the sting was sharper when I saw them articulated by someone else, particularly a stranger who seemed to embody the confidence I longed for. They were not successful in a financial sense alone, but in their willingness to take action that I found so difficult: hitting "publish."
I envisioned that level of confidence and liberation—exposing my thoughts for others to see. The fear of vulnerability loomed large, making me feel as though I was laying myself bare for the world to judge, like an animal in a cage with spectators tossing peanuts.
The pressure of those thoughts lingered in my mind, a heavy seasoning I could no longer ignore. Eventually, my hunger for expression grew too strong to resist. I took the plunge, created this account, penned an article, and then… I halted.
My article lingered in drafts for months, as fear gripped me once more. The echo of those words persisted: "Drafts don’t count." Merely writing does not qualify one as a writer; it’s the act of sharing with an audience that truly matters.
I realized that the fear of the unknown would consume me unless I acted. I couldn't bear the thought of pondering missed opportunities when my time ran out. So, I decided to take the leap. I revisited my drafts, refined my article, and finally hit "publish." I enrolled in the Partner Program and, arguably, the hardest part—shared it on my social media.
It was daunting.
To my surprise, I was greeted with a wave of support. Instead of silence, I received applause and shares, with colleagues expressing their appreciation for my article.
This experience transcended monetary gain; it was about community and the liberating act of sharing my thoughts with others. Above all, it affirmed my identity as a writer.
The first video titled "Don't Call Yourself An 'Aspiring Writer'" explores the significance of taking action and not labeling yourself without putting in the effort.
Section 1.1: Overcoming the Fear of Sharing
The fear of vulnerability can often keep writers from sharing their work. It’s essential to confront that fear to embrace your identity as a writer fully.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Power of Community
The support from a community can be incredibly validating. It reassures writers that they are not alone in their journey.
Section 1.2: The Journey to Confidence
Becoming confident in your writing abilities often involves overcoming self-doubt and taking the plunge to share your work.
Chapter 2: Embracing Your Identity
The second video titled "Stop Calling Yourself an Aspiring Writer (Please!)" emphasizes the importance of taking action and stepping into your role as a writer.