You Are a Writer (So Start Acting Like One)

For me, all of this began with a pledge, with a simple understanding: I am a writer. I just need to write. Now, your opportunity is here. Don’t let it pass you by. And remember: It all begins with a change of mind. You are a writer…

“This business of… being a writer is ultimately about asking yourself, ‘How alive am I willing to be?’” —ANNE LAMOTT

What you do next though is what forms your character. It’s what determines the course of your life’s work and what makes a legacy. It’s the difference between someone who creates something memorable and meaningful and someone who just gives up.

Your brand is the sum of all the parts of you that are important to your writing.

It’s time to put your work out there—not because you’ll succeed. Quite the opposite, in fact. You’ll probably fail (I’m such an encourager). But it’s important. Because in the failure, you can learn. You’ll have to learn the lesson every writer hates learning. You’ll have to live through the fear so you can hear the hard feedback that will help you

I had spent years helping other people find their voices. I wasn’t sure I’d recognize my own voice when it came. And truth is, I didn’t. I needed people to tell me when I hit my sweet spot. When I struck a nerve. I needed help. I needed feedback. When I started writing every day without excuse, I didn’t know if my material was resonating with anyon

When designing your look, remember these tips: Be recognizable, inviting, and interesting. Use a professional photographer or designer to help you. Outsource what you can’t do yourself, but make sure you speak into the process. Be certain people will notice you and your work by your logo, headshots, etc. Get feedback from friends, fans, and followe

In fact, a friend had to tell me, “Jeff, you’ve found your voice,” before I would believe it. Maybe you’ll need the same reminder. That’s why we can’t simply practice in a corner somewhere in a darkly lit room. You’ve got to get out in the world and share your work. Otherwise, you’ll always doubt yourself.

If you’re going to fall out of love with public approval, something interesting will happen: People will be deeply attracted to your work. They won’t be able to help it. Passion is contagious. If you treat people like human beings and write from a place that is deep and true, you will find your audience.