When you think of an author which one of these photos fits the stereotype?

Here’s an interesting tidbit from my many years of attending writers’ conferences. Because I don’t fit the normal stereotype of an introverted shy writer, I talk to people. Complete strangers get my attention. I’ve discovered one interesting fact.

We are not cut from the same mold.

Not everyone who is a writer has been creating stories since they were able to pick up a crayon. Another myth busted.

During the course of these conversations with writers, I’ve discovered a few interesting categories.

• The messengers.

They have one passion. It might be loving God, prayer, abuse, disabilities or a host of other topics. Everything they write focuses on that message. If it’s articles or books, the core theme remains the same. They felt called to share their heart through the written word.

• The degreed.

These writers have BA, MA or PHDs. Not necessarily in writing or even English. Often they are retired. However, young college students or new graduates are part of this group. Writing for this group is either a new direction or a lifelong dream.

• Lifelong learner.

Like me, we only have a high school diploma, but we educated ourselves over time and continued to learn what we don’t know about writing well.

• Underachievers

This group were poor students in school, and English class was not their friend. A few admit to graduating in the bottom ten percent in college. Others only have a GED.

• Accidental 

Illness or unemployement gave some wouldbe wrtiers time on their hands. So, they gave it a try.

• Second language.

I’m always impressed when I meet writers who’ve mastered English and are able to articulate well on paper. Their determination to get it right is admirable.

This is not an exhaustive list.

No comparing

The point is there is no formula of what qualifies someone to take on writing as a career. Our differences give voice to our writing. Each individual journey has the same destination: publication. Whether it takes us a day or years to reach publication, it tastes as sweet.

Don’t fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others on the same journey. Because I never went to college, it’s easy to let tendrils of inferiority surround my self-esteem when in the presence of the degreed. Then I remind myself we’re two different breeds of wordsmiths, and I enjoy their company and our exchange of ideas.

The best place to look when you get a bit discouraged is your heart. It’s not about fitting into the perfect stereotypical mold. It’s not about degrees or loving English. It’s not even about being a shy introvert who loves being alone with words. Rather, it’s the call you feel on your heart. The need to put words on paper even if they aren’t very good. The passion to change lives. And the willingness to persevere.

I’m sure you’ve figured out the photos are all writer friends of mine. Not a stereotype among them.

Tell me about your writing journey. I’d love to hear about it.

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