Do You REALLY Want to Be a Writer?
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This is a question I seem to be asking people all the time. People who tell me they want to be writers.
But I think it’s an important question and can save many people much time and effort if they answer the question truthfully.
Today, most everyone says they want to write a book someday.
Most of those people even have an idea for that book.
But, do they REALLY want to be writers?
Probably not.
What they REALLY want is for people to hear their story.
What they DON’T really want is to spend days, weeks, months, and even years learning the craft of writing well, so they can tell that story effectively and find a publisher for it.
The other thing I often find with people who SAY they want to become writers is this - they don’t write on a regular basis until the day they get that idea for a book.
Then suddenly, that book idea starts to take over their lives.
They want to write the book immediately and get it off to an agent or publisher.
But think about that for a moment.
Writing a book with no previous writing experience - or even just regular writing PRACTICE - is a little like wanting to run a marathon without training for it, or never even running at all before the day of the big race.
No one would even THINK of doing that.
So why does everyone THINK a book should be the first writing project they tackle?
If you have a personal story or some kind of information that you sincerely WANT people to know, first ask yourself this question, “Do I REALLY want to do all the work it takes to be a serious writer - or do I just want people to hear my story?”
If you simply want people to hear your story - hire a ghostwriter.
In the end, you’ll save yourself time, energy, and even money.
Ghostwriters REALLY do want to write.
And GOOD ghostwriters have the experience, training, and skill needed to tell your story well.
Don’t you agree?
Let me know what you think.
Topics: ghostwriter, becoming a writer, writing a book |
April 25th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
I couldn’t agree more with you! As a book publishing coach, I have had clients who feel exactly the way you describe. They expect me to bring their book before the agents and publishers I know, yet they won’t take my editorial suggestions as to how to make their book publishable. They get upset with me when I suggest ways to build their platform first, before even seeking a publsher. It’s all too much work. Maybe they leave me and go to someone who promises they can write a book in 14 days and then become a best selling author. All I can promise is that I can save them lots of time and even money by doing things right, but I can’t promise they will get published or be successful. That’s all up to them. And for many people, it’s just too much effort.
April 26th, 2007 at 6:56 pm
Excellent points! Telling a story is one thing, having someone craft that story into something that is interesting, compelling, and readable is another matter. I have a friend who has a wonderful book idea, but she simply cannot write. When I told her “that is what editors are for” she took my advice and sent the work out. Even the best story usually needs to go through an experienced ghostwriter or, at the very least, can a good working over from a knowledgeable editor.
April 29th, 2007 at 7:06 pm
I feel so validated reading this submission. It is so reassuring to learn that building my platform *even though it will take me years* is the best road. Often I feel I’m just spinning my wheels–realizing naturally. I’ve got so much to learn, so far to go. Often I feel like the turtle in the dust of a 1,000 hares.
Thanks for a write that hits right between the eyes. Mine.
Linda Della Donna
www.griefcase.blogspot.com