Defining what it means to be a “writer” can be an ambiguous task for many aspiring authors. There is no definitive criteria that makes someone a writer, and the line between writing as a hobby versus a profession or identity can often be blurred. In this essay, we will explore what it truly means to consider yourself a writer based on various perspectives, including a look at habits, experience, dedication to the craft, and other factors beyond simply publishing work.
To start, writing is a skill that anyone can develop through practice, but not everyone who writes would classify themselves as a writer. Occasionally jotting down thoughts in a diary or writing emails does not necessarily make an individual a writer in the true sense of the word. A key factor in determining if you are a writer involves consistency and frequency of writing as well as a mindset that views writing as important to your self-identity and purpose. Writers view writing not just as something they do, but as part of who they are at their core.
Dedication to regular writing habits, whether every day, a few times a week, or following some other schedule, shows that an individual values writing as seriously as any other job or career. They make time for writing among other responsibilities in life and treat it as vital, not as an afterthought or casual hobby. Rigorous daily word count goals, journaling writing progress, participating in writerly communities, and finding ways to challenge yourself creatively are all signs of someone dedicated to continually bettering their craft – actions common among professional writers.
Of course, frequency alone does not define a writer – the quality, style, and effort that goes into the writing should also be considered. Notes scribbled hastily would not have the depth, care, or polish of what a serious writer produces. There needs to be passion for storytelling, exploring ideas, and mastering the mechanics of writing evident in the work. Editing, revising, learning from feedback, and pushing yourself out of your creative comfort zone reveals a writer’s drive for excellence rather than half-hearted dabbling.
Publishing and sharing written work, whether in blogs, books, magazines or other formats, shows ambition to communicate ideas and stories to others. It demonstrates a writer’s commitment to developing their voice and perspective beyond just themselves. Releasing content for public consumption, reviews, and critique truly separates casual hobbyists from career-oriented writers serious about their craft. While publishing is not required, it represents an important step for many in embracing their identity as a writer.
Experience and non-writing qualifications, while not entirely necessary, can also support a claim to being a writer. Many writers hone their skills over years or even decades, going through various stages from amateur to seasoned pro. Formal education like creative writing degrees or workshops, career experience in fields like journalism, teaching courses oneself, or working various writing-related jobs can complement natural talent through immersive practice and learning. Credentials of this nature signal a writer’s depth of knowledge, skills, and seriousness compared to novices.
It’s important to note that experience and traditional qualifications alone do not make a writer either. Many talented wordsmiths found immense success without MFAs or traditional training. Likewise, someone with decades of scribbling random musings in private would not truly achieve the identity of a dedicated writer without regular committed practice and striving to improve through study of the craft. Overall, embracing writing holistically as a lifelong passion, identity and career path – in addition to natural skill and competence developed over time – is what truly separates hobbyists from real writers in soul.
Whether writing creatively, journalistically, technically or in other formats, cultivating writing as the core of one’s identity and purpose in life seems like the overarching theme. It suggests an individual dedicates significant focus to honing their written voice rather than treating writing as an occasional pastime. Financial gain is another clue – while not a requirement, many professional writers ultimately seek publishing deals, freelance work or alternative monetization models necessary to earn a sustainable living through writing. Developing business strategies to market one’s work shows writing is approached seriously as a professional undertaking or occupation.
Of course, self-identifying as a writer can vary depending on personal goals and circumstances. There are authors who view themselves as “writers” based on their serious amateur pursuits, life experiences and self-expression alone, without pursuing commercial published work or professional writing gigs. Others start as casual writers who evolve into serious career-focused individuals striving for an immersive writing lifestyle over time. Some tackle writing part-time while juggling other responsibilities. There is no single “right” way to be a writer.
Ultimately, whether you consider yourself a writer comes down to an authentic examination of attitudes, dedication and the core role writing plays in your identity, habits, experiences and long term plans or aspirations. If you view creating and honing written works as an important lifelong pursuit central to who you are regardless of commercial successes – and if you show corresponding commitment to regular practice, education and striving to better your craft – then you very well may be able to confidently call yourself a writer. Your writing brings you inner fulfillment and you approach it with the seriousness of any major vocation or life interest. That intrinsic passion is what truly separates authors from casual writers dabbling recreationally. With patient development of skills and perspectives over time, there’s no reason most people cannot envision themselves writers in spirit, if not by occupation. The deepest meaning of being an author lies not in publication credits or formal training, but in writing as a guiding light and wellspring of individual expression.
Andrew Stroud