5 Ways to Become a Writer

1. Start calling yourself a writer.

Labels are important. Labels define and categorize our relationships, priorities, and conduct. The label you place on yourself sets the framework for how you see yourself and ultimately how the world sees you. Naming yourself a writer sets your intentions and focus. It lets the world know that you are creative above all else- that words matter to you.

See yourself as a creative writer. This shifts your mindset. When you embrace this mindset, you become that person. Like attracts like. You'll naturally begin to connect with people who can support you and introduce you to those who can help you grow.

2. Develop a writer’s mindset. 

What is a writer’s mindset? Your mindset is how you think and feel about something. Therefore, a writer’s mindset is how you think and feel about writing. A writer’s mindset is essential for developing and nurturing your creativity. How you think about writing can directly affect your creativity, so having a positive relationship with writing and the creative process is important.

How do you develop a writer’s mindset? First, cultivate keen awareness of the world around you — issues, ideas, conversations, events. What sparks people’s interests and imaginations? What gets people talking and, most importantly, thinking? Viewing the world and reading between the lines is a learned skill, and it’s often between the lines where your next story lies.

Also, become an avid reader. Reading the works of others with a critical eye is a great way to develop your skills, learn new styles, and jumpstart your creativity. Basically, the more you read, the more you may want to write and have your own voice heard.

Finally, surround yourself with other writers who share your interests. See my previous post, “Writing Communities. Here's How Writers Connect and Grow” to learn more about the benefits of surrounding yourself with writers.

3. Write about things that interest you.

This one is easy. Writing about what matters to you should feel natural. Find your niche—fantasy, historical fiction, children’s books, whatever it is—and write about it. Immerse yourself in learning everything you can about that genre, then write, write, WRITE.

4. Create a writing routine.

Writing is not a race; it's a marathon. Developing a consistent writing routine creates a pattern of creativity. The key is to make writing part of your day and not put so much pressure on yourself to create the next masterpiece. Let your ideas flow freely; the masterpiece will come.

See my previous post, “5 Tips to Overcome Writing Hurdles” to learn more about creating a pattern or writing and overcoming obstacles.

5. Commit to writing your book…

…or article or story. Whatever it is, commit to releasing the words trapped inside. Your voice deserves to be heard as much as anyone else’s. As a writer, it is your duty to share your voice and ideas with the world.

Writers are among the most influential members of society.Being a writer is a superpower. There is power in words. Writers can inspire, influence, motivate, and empower generations, millions of people, or just one person.

No matter how unknown you may be, there is no telling what effect your words may have. You have no idea who may be inspired by your words to do great things. So, give yourself a timeframe and a deadline—and write. Write with passion and purpose. Write for yourself and for your intended reader.

You are a WRITER. And as a writer, you owe it not only to yourself but to everyone to unleash your story.