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I did not set out to become a professional writer. Instead, serendipity had a large role to play in my career. But my choice of profession did not surprise people who’ve known me since my school and college days. They expected it all along, given that they saw me acing essays and winning poetry and short story competitions.
They saw traits of a natural writer, someone who felt comfortable with words and who did not have to strive hard to come up with a decent essay or story even at short notice. People recognize a writer through a few essential traits especially the following.
1. Writers are voracious readers: I’ve been a bookworm since the time I was six when I discovered the wonderful world of books. I devoured any written material I could grab. Even today, I would rather curl up with a book than watch a movie or flip TV channels.
Most writers love to read. Their love of books makes them want to write, and the more they read, the better writers they become. Reading as much as you can about varied subjects, topics and viewpoints is the best way to stay current and improve your writing. Good writers know and understand this unwritten rule.
2. Writers are intuitive thinkers: Good writers are able to think deeper about any subject and delve into it instead of skimming through it on a superficial level. They know that without a good understanding of any topic or niche, then they cannot write comprehensively about it. So whatever their chosen genre or niche, they work to stay up to date and understand it thoroughly.
3. Writers are observant bystanders: A writer’s sub-conscious is always on the lookout for story ideas. They look at situations differently from others in their quest to find an interesting article or book.
They also know how use their creative instincts and spin a story the right way. For example, if the style is serious, they don’t cloud the narration with flashy language. If they have the liberty to spin a yarn, they do it to the best of their ability. In short, writers’ brains work overtime when they sense a story in any situation. They don’t rest until they sort through the idea and transform it into words that lead to a good article or book.
4. Writers are diligent researchers: A writer needs strong research skills consistently achieve success. You may know your subject well, but any story or article has to be thoroughly researched and the facts double-checked to avoid making mistakes and losing your credibility. Good writers know they must have the patience to plod through their research. Otherwise, they won’t achieve the kind of success that they want.
This guest post is contributed by Anna Miller. She welcomes your comments at her email id: anna.miller009@gmail.com.
Yes, this is an excellent listing of writer traits.
And I agree with your #1 unwritten rule!
Loving to read well and wide is the first glorious step on the writing path.
Thank you for this post.
.-= Marisa Birns’s blog …Dawning =-.
I was curious and wanted to see if I “had what it takes” to be a writer. Whew! Your post describes me to a T, even your opening description of someone who loves to write from early on. I guess I won’t abandon this experiment after all.
.-= Shelli’s blog …Aspiring Authors! =-.
@Marisa, I’ve yet to meet a writer who despises reading. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
@Shelli, if you enjoy doing something … do it! Don’t worry about if you have what it takes or not, do it for the joy. If something comes of it, all the better!
Hi Anna,
Nice to see you here! Short, simple, sweet, true. Who could ask for anything more in a post?
George
.-= George Angus’s blog …What’s Your Writing Background? =-.