First, let me preface this segment by explaining what it’s about.
When I was about 12/13 I discovered such magazines as BOP! and Teen Magazine and there the idea of becoming a writer germinated. I have scrapbooks filled with “articles” I wrote, interviewing my favorite actors, giving stats, and revealing interesting pictures. However, being a girl from West Virginia didn’t exactly put me on the red carpet scene and as I grew older, other careers grabbed my attention.
A lot has happened over the course of some 30 years, but things have come full circle as once again I spend time writing and dreaming of the possibilities of being a professional writer. And, just as before, a girl from West Virginia isn’t exactly where the writing careers boom.
In brainstorming for topics to put on this blog (as you may have noted I am not a niche writer) I thought why not talk about my journey as a writer because maybe somewhere there are others who are struggling to make their mark on this world.
So often we hear of writers only after they have become a successful author, but seldom do we hear about the countless hours of rewrites, tears, and frustrations that goes into that book. We don’t see the years spent on hashing out a storyline, questioning if the story is good, or wondering if you’re good enough.
I questioned whether adding this trek to the blog would contradict the purpose of Coffee Dribble but the answer is no. Coffee Dribble is about sharing experiences, making the world just a little bit brighter, and giving a bit of hope. It’s a table to bring your cup of coffee to and chat with a friend and that means talking about that which is important to each of us.
What I hope to accomplish by doing this is to allow other writers to see that they are not alone in their frustrations, insecurities, and passions. One of the things I have learned through attending writing groups and classes is that being around others with similar interests and desires keeps you motivated to go forward. So these posts will be a virtual writer’s club of sorts. I hope that you will not be a silent spectator but an active participant as I want to hear about you and your journey as a writer.
And what better time to start this than just before NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writers Month)!
So here’s to new adventures, new friends, and positive minds!!
Find Your Magnetic North
Today I wake up wondering if I’m good enough. Since graduating college, even slightly beyond that, I have been submitting pieces to magazines and newspapers for print without so much as an email of recognition. No words of feedback are sent my way and thus I am left to wonder if what I provide is decent, or what they seek. It’s a frustrating business that leaves me often doubting not only my skills but my goals.
I have discovered that being a writer is much like being an artist or actor – it’s a lot of work, perseverance, and waiting for an opportunity. I find that I am constantly having pep-talks with myself, recalling why I want to be a writer and what I want to bring to the world. But there are plenty of days when I wonder what I’m doing and if it is worth all the time and effort?
I think the first thing a writer needs to sort out is why they write. This will be the magnetic north of your compass to keep you going in the right direction. When you feel overwhelmed or discouraged, knowing why you write can keep you motivated and going forward.
I write because I want to make people smile and to provide them with an escape from their troubles,even if it’s for a short bit. I want to provoke thought in order to bring unity and compassion to a world that seems so full of toxic words and ideas. This is my writing compass, what helps me to choose topics and the angle of my story as well as who I look to for employment. It gives purpose to my novels, blog, and news pieces and provides justification for when people ask, “Why would you want to be a writer?” I want to be a writer because I want to make a difference.
So in closing today, I want to hear what motivates you to write. Why do you spend hours on a task with so little reward? What is the end goal? Where does your compass point? Ultimately, why do you want to be a writer?
Let me know in the comments below along with ideas in how you stay motivated in your writing journey.
Coffee Dribble 