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Are You A Writer? Here’s How You’ll Know

By on June 23, 2016
Are You A Writer? Here’s How You’ll Know - Writer's Life.org

Have you always dreamt of becoming a writer, yet you are not sure you have got what it takes?

Sometimes, when it comes to following our passions, our dreams, we want a little reassurance. So how do you really know if you are a writer?

Here are some of the signs to look out for:

You make notes when you are reading

Most people read books purely for pleasure, but you? You can't help but make a little note in the margin when you come across a particularly great bit, you can’t help but underline words and phrases that resonate with you, you can’t help but analyse the sentence construction, the language, the literary techniques.

Writers tend to be sharp critiques; they are word magpies, they hoard language, they react differently to words - and get excited and inspired when they read something that they love.

You are a keen observer of the world

Writers are creative beasts and naturally they look for adventure and intrigue at every turn. They look at the world differently. Every moment, every footstep, every new day can bring with it a sudden revelation, a jolt of inspiration. They hunt for this constantly and never let up.

You are a daydreamer

Do you find your mind wandering to strange places, to other worlds? Do you find you do this more frequently than most?

Your active imagination can be a blessing and a curse! Do people ever say to you ‘why do you think so much?’ Or ‘you are so dramatic!’? Writers are always creating little stories in their heads in the hope that one of them will lead to something more!

You are a reader

Writers tend to devour books. Reading is our passion; it’s our research. We fiercely protect the books we love, and we could talk about them for hours, and we are always on the lookout for a new great story to read. We are loyal to our favourite authors, we love them and are tortured by them (how will we ever be as good?), yet we are adventurous in our tastes. We don’t stick to one genre; we try them all!

You have an urge to write things down

Writing things down, rather than saying them is easier. Sometimes you hear something or have a sudden thought, and you must write it down immediately. Your phone is full of text messages to yourself when you have been struck with an idea and have been caught without your notepad. Writing things down is your preferred way of making sense of the world.

When you get a compliment, it’s the best feeling in the world

Someone praises your writing - do you feel an overwhelming urge to hug them? Compliments about your writing, whoever they are from make your heart sing. If someone tells you they enjoyed your work it is the best feeling in the world. Every time this happens you feel energised and motivated to write even more.

Writing is difficult, laboured and amazing all at the same time!

You are in a constant state of turmoil when it comes to writing. It feels like going to the gym. The idea of actually having to do it is awful. You come up with excuses why you shouldn’t, why you can’t.

‘I’ll do it tomorrow’ you think, and then settle in front of the TV with a big slice of cake. However, when you get there and begin your workout, you suddenly start to feel really good about yourself, and the more you go, the more you want to. When you are finished, you are proud, exhilarated and one step closer to achieving your goal.

Do any of these ring a bell? Do all of them? If so it looks like you might just be a writer!

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

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

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