It hurts. Both in ones personal and professional life. I think there are two stereotypical traits of writers that tend them towards being ignored and a bit of an outcast. First, we writers aren't known for our outgoing, socialite personalities. Many of us are shy and introverted. Second, our tastes tend to be considered dorky, high-brow, over-exuberant, quirky at best. Neither of these are bad things at all, but when mixed with regular society, are made to look bad.
It is so easy to ignore an aspiring writer. We're nerdy, awkward, very poor and very desperate. So what can we do? There are a few things every writer needs in order to emotionally and professionally get past the ignorers and ignoramuses.
Confidence: Weird is a compliment. Anybody not weird is just boring. And besides, who cares what adjective someone else decides to pin on you? That's their deal, not yours. Never let the way someone speaks to or treats you get you down. There is no need for return negativity, but let their grumpy slide. If you keep going, keep writing, you WILL have success, and there WILL be people who think you're the greatest thing since chocolate milk, and not just your mother either. Just wait with patient confidence, keep writing, and don't mind their crap in the meantime.
Positive attitude: Pity parties make for bad writing. Everybody has their struggles, not just us writers. Instead of sitting around feeling sorry for ourselves, we can cheerfully offer help when its possible and gratefully accept it when its offered. People enjoy being around someone who works hard and smiles.
Open eyes: Both with ourselves and everyone else. For ourselves, we need to know when the crap is coming for a reason, when listening to it could actually help. With others, we need to see when someone is just a grumpy, selfish, or bad attitude kind of person, and not waste our time or theirs trying to change their minds. Don't bang your head against a wall. Listen with care and discernment, and find people who care about listening to you. Be honest with yourself and your situation.
The important thing is to keep writing.
Sarah Allen
No comments:
Post a Comment