12 Things That Prove You REALLY Are a Writer

by Edie Melson @EdieMelson

We all have times when we doubt.

Many of us hit places in our journey where we wonder if we're really cut out for writing. Insecurity and the general insanity of the business can whittle down our confidence until we're ready to throw in the towel. 

Today I'd like to share a list of things that can reverse that insecurity. If you find any of these familiar, you're definitely on the write . . .  uh . . . right path.

1. You look forward to the holidays and getting together with difficult relatives because it gives you more ideas for quirky characters.

2. Eavesdropping is a way of life—how else can you learn to write realistic dialogue?

You never go anywhere without pen and paper.

3. You never go anywhere without a pen and paper—you never know when inspiration will hit.

4. Your husband bought you a digital voice recorder because he was afraid you’d wreck the car writing notes when inspiration hits.

5. You frequently act out scenes for your book, and even ask your family to participate.

6. Going too long without writing can bring on a case of hives.

7. Your personal computer has several files on how to commit the perfect murder.

8. You can’t pass a bookstore with going in.

Your spouse sleeps with a mask.

9. Your spouse now sleeps with a mask on because you frequently flip on the light to take notes in the middle of the night.

10. When something funny happens to a family member, his/her first reaction is to beg you NOT to write about it.

11. Your frequently have conversations—out loud—with your character.

12. You have at least one non-writer friend who refuses to go to lunch with you any more—one too many discussions about how to poison someone.

Now I'd love to hear what you'd add to the list. What things confirm your calling to the writer's life?

Edie Melson is the author of numerous books, as well as a freelance writer and editor. Her blog, The Write Conversation, reaches thousands each month. She’s the co-director of the Blue Ridge Mountains ChristianWriters Conference and the Social Media Mentor at My Book Therapy. She’s also the Military Family Blogger at Guideposts. Com, Social Media Director for SouthernWriters Magazine and the Senior Editor for NovelRocket.com. Connect with her on Twitter and Facebook. Don't miss her new book from Worthy Inspired, WHILE MY SOLDIER SERVES.

Read More