I'm talking about your writing, of course.
It's time you own it like
that pair of heels you bought on a killer sale
and you couldn't be prouder to wear.
(Sorry, gentlemen. I can't relate to being excited about electronic purchases,
so this is as good as it's gonna get.)
I love author Kristen Lamb's blog. It's filled with follow-worthy advice, complete with some of the best post titles I've ever seen.
In one particular series of posts, Ms. Lamb discusses the "Lies that can poison our writing careers."
"Lie #1 I’m not a real writer until I have a finished manuscript, landed an agent, am traditionally published, am selling books, have spent my retirement funds earning an MFA in Creative Writing."
This first one got an immediate "Amen!" from me. I've had the honor of meeting many writers over the years, and one thing I noticed is that so many writers are afraid to call themselves writers, most often for the reasons Ms. Lamb detailed in her post.
But they are writers. They became writers the moment they sat down and started writing, and they remain writers because they have continued that habit for the month, year, or decade since.
So, if you're a writer but you aren't owning the title yet, what are you waiting for? Get thee to Kristen Lamb's blog!
You're still here? Fine, I'll keep talking. I can do this all day.
Lie #2 really spoke to me. It's this:
"Lie: I will take my writing more seriously when others (friends, family, the FedEx guy) take me seriously."
Oh, do I need to work on this one. It's all about setting boundaries and putting your writing first, and taking yourself seriously so others will, too. Ms. Lamb inspired me to take immediate action with this post, and I already feel better for having done it. Aaaaaah.
And do you know what? The blog posts are just the beginning. Each post gets tons of great comments, with even more wisdom and advice from Ms. Lamb sprinkled in. And, she writes books. That's right, real books. Ones you should buy.
The deets: We Are Not Alone–The Writer’s Guide to Social Media and Are You There, Blog? It’s Me, Writer. Both books are ON SALE for $4.99!!!!
So writers, this is me spreading the writing love. Go visit Ms. Lamb's blog.
You can thank me later.
