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How To Act Like A Writer

By on June 14, 2017

Ever heard of the phrase ‘fake it until you make it?’ Well, sometimes that’s what writers have to do in order to get by.

It’s so common for writers to deny what they are. We live in fear of being criticised, of getting rejected, and feel that if we admit to being a writer we'll be ridiculed or irritatingly asked ‘yes, but what’s your real job?’

So how do you act like a writer to help full you with confidence and certainty?

Make writing a priority

It’s so easy to talk about writing, to complain about writing, to fret about writing, without actually DOING any writing. Real writers don’t sit about all day moaning about writer’s block or sweating over every single word. They knuckle down and get on with it. So if you want to act like a writer then instead of procrastinating or commiserating with your fellow writers, just sit and write. Your writing has to be a priority in your life. It doesn’t have to be your main job, you don’t even have to make any money from it, but you do need to give it the attention it deserves.

Dress like you mean business

You wouldn’t turn up to work in your 2-week old sweatpants and a jumper that is barely holding its threads together. So why do you think this is appropriate attire to write in? If you actually get out of bed, shower, dress smartly and sit down in a space that you’ve designated for writing, you’ll feel so much more professional and businesslike, and will probably write better too.

Be quietly confident

To act like a real writer you don’t have to be arrogant or dominant, but you don’t have to be full of agony and crippled with self-doubt either. Believing in yourself and the work that you do will help motivate you to keep going even when times are tough.

Have purpose

All writers should have a purpose. Early on you should figure out what it is you are hoping to achieve from your work and always keep this firmly in your mind's eye. Be prepared to tell others about it too. Having a purpose and having clear goals to help you achieve that purpose will always make you feel as though you are moving in the right direction.

Be passionate

Be ready to talk about the projects you are working on with pride and passion. If you clam up and stutter when someone asks you about your book they will quickly lose interest. Talking about your work doesn’t make you boastful - good writers need to be salespeople after all. Make sure you can describe your stories or the projects you are working on with confidence and eloquence - it will make you believe in what you are doing even more too.

Acting like a writer isn’t just about putting on a front, it’s about developing good behaviours and ways of communicating that will help fill you with confidence, determination and pride in what you are doing - and that’s surely what every real writer wants!

Bethany Cadman -author of 'Doctor Vanilla's Sunflowers'

Bethany Cadman -author of 'Doctor Vanilla's Sunflowers'

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