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When did you know you wanted to be a Writer/Author?

When did you know you wanted to be a Writer/Author?

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Steve’s Answer

I started writing in high school. It wasn't related to my schoolwork; in fact, I was a troubled student and my school didn't even allow me to take English in the 12th grade. But I kept it up and found more encouragement in college. Later I became a playwright, and now I write fiction on the side while holding down a full-time career that often involves writing. You'll know you want to become a writer when you're compelled to write regularly regardless of whether you receive encouragement or reward.
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angie’s Answer

Hello, Za'Mare -

When did I know I wanted to be a writer? Well, I don't remember a specific time. I have always used writing as an outlet for myself, to move emotions, or to better understand myself and others. I had a traumatic childhood, so I was curious about psychology and the mind - I wanted to know why people do the things they do when they are angry or upset. I think my love for writing for others began there because I had to write a lot of papers for my degree, and I was good at it. I could argue my side and also see the opposite side or sides and be compassionate toward them as well as learn from them. My writing seemed to speak to others and open something up in them as well. I got so excited about writing that I opted to go for my MFA instead of following psychology into a master's program. But first, writing for me was personal and a great reliever of stress.

Art heals the soul, I believe. Writing is one aspect of art, and for that, I am grateful.

Hope that answers your question....stay curious!

Write~on
Angie
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Iman’s Answer

Hello Za'Mare,

There is no specific moment in time when you'll know that you "have" to become a writer; but here are some signs (at least from my perspective):

1. Writing comes naturally to you, you might be having a feeling or in a situation, and words describing that feeling/situation come flooding your mind.
2. You write a lot, and have a lot of notebooks and journals with your writing about different topics and things. Or maybe just journaling really!
3. People tell you that your writing moves them and inspires them (if you share your writings).
4. You are a deep thinker.
5. Personally as I was in an English major, and this really helped me discover more regarding my passion when it comes to writing.

I think if you asked the question, you know the answer deep down. What you should be more focused on if you decided to pursue a career in writing, is what would be your niche (what's the thing you'd love to write about the most) and that comes with A LOT of reading; so make sure you're reading daily.

Wishing you the best & I hope this helps!

Iman recommends the following next steps:

Discover your niche
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Carey’s Answer

I actually started writing when I was eight! I wrote my first book about a turtle that was stuck in our neighborhood pond. I made the illustrations and everything. Now, almost two decades later, I'm still writing. I don't think it matters when you start, it just matters that you stick with it and improve your craft every day.
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Mark’s Answer

I was in my late 20s and working in the Circulation Department of a daily newspaper. I found myself envying the writers. So I wrote a couple of Guest Editorials for the same newspaper. I wound up quitting that job, moving, going back to college, and getting a degree in journalism. I never worked at a newspaper, but I have been writing every since.
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Seth’s Answer

In 5th grade I wrote a funny, creative story. I enjoyed the process so much that I knew I wanted to be a writer.

In college, I tried to find ways to make money as a writer. The path I found was being a journalist. It let me get paid to write, which was my dream.
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