Chapter 1: The Shift in Mindset

Let’s be clear from the outset: the pieces I’ve been sharing on Medium over the past week aren’t exactly Pulitzer Prize winners. They may resonate with some, offering a sense of connection to those grappling with similar thoughts or challenges, but they aren't groundbreaking.

In today's world, where virtually anyone with internet access can share their voice, it's tough to grab the attention of an audience. The competition is fierce, and standing out can feel nearly impossible.

For the longest time, I identified as an aspiring writer, dabbling in novels, screenplays, poetry, and online content. However, none of these pursuits ever truly stuck with me. Recently, I’ve come to a new realization: labeling myself as an "aspiring writer" perpetuates a sense of chasing an elusive goal. How often have we heard friends or family suggest that achieving success as a writer is unrealistic? I certainly have.

As writers, I believe many of us share that nagging voice of doubt, questioning what makes us worthy of an audience. We spend endless hours writing, editing, and often deleting our work, stuck in a cycle of fear and self-doubt.

Stop Defining Yourself as an Aspiring Writer

If you cultivate a regular writing habit, feel passionate about the craft, and continually return to it despite past failures, then you are indeed a writer.

Before I began posting on Medium, I dedicated weeks to writing poetry—much of it likely subpar. While quality is often emphasized, there’s value in quantity too. After years of this back-and-forth of writing and erasing, I felt compelled to submit my work to various publications. I sought a platform that would accept my pieces, knowing full well that rejection was a possibility.

Then, the inevitable happened: my first rejection letter arrived. One might assume this would shatter my confidence, solidifying my insecurities. Yet, for me, it sparked a shift in perspective.

Embracing Rejection as a Learning Opportunity

Rejection became less daunting. I didn’t perish; the world didn’t end. Instead, I felt an even stronger urge to write. This was the turning point for me.

Upon discovering Medium, I realized I could share my writing with readers almost instantly. This newfound immediacy allowed me to develop a writing routine unlike any I’d experienced before. The beauty of this process is that it helps confront and dismantle that voice of doubt while providing invaluable practice.

While my Medium articles may not change lives, they still require significant brainstorming, freewriting, and editing before I feel they are ready for publication. Remember, you’ll never become a writer unless you sit down and actually write!

The Importance of Consistent Practice

You can't wait for bursts of inspiration; writing is a skill that needs regular exercise. Initially, focusing on quantity may be more beneficial than striving for perfection. Any accolades or successes are simply bonuses, while rejections serve as valuable lessons.

You don’t have to publish on a high-traffic platform like Medium; consider smaller publications or even starting your own blog to ease into the process.

Ultimately, motivation should not be your sole driver. Many experts argue that genuine motivation emerges when you start taking actionable steps towards your goals.

So let go of the label "aspiring writer." If you write, you are a writer. Take that leap and start sharing your work—it’s the most important step you can take!

Chapter 2: Practical Steps to Start Writing

In this video, discover 12 straightforward methods to secure writing jobs, even if you lack a portfolio or experience. These strategies can help you kickstart your writing career today.

In this video, explore the top 10 reasons that might be holding you back from achieving success as a writer, along with actionable tips to overcome these hurdles.