Three Things You Must Have to Even Begin to Be a Writer

1. Thick Skin. If you care what other people think, or it bothers you if someone does not like something about you … then do not be a writer. The critics are going to tear your work to shreds, readers will do the same. I promise you not everyone will like what you’ve written. And, in no uncertain terms, they will let you know how pathetic they think it is. You have got to have thick skin and an “I don’t care what you think attitude.”

2. No fear. If you are worried that you are going to offend someone, anyone, for whatever reason because of what you are putting down on paper, then give it up. Go do something else because writing means you are willing to tackle any topic in any way you damn well desire. The best writers are not afraid … of anything.

3. An imagination. If you don’t find yourself drifting off throughout the day, wandering away in your mind, then chances are you have no imagination. Imaginative people get bored with the daily grind of life, they need change, they need something different to move them along. If they sit stagnant or drone through the day, their minds wander in all directions. Writers must have an imagination.

That’s it. That’s all you need. If you have that and a willingness to sit your ass down in front of typewriter or computer and put it all on paper, then my only question is … what the hell are you waiting for?

(by TBV)