Misconceptions about Writers

Many people have the misconception that writing is an easy way to get rich. They plan to write that best seller and live on easy-street for the rest of their lives. They'll make a few appearances on national television to promote it and maybe travel the world when they choose. Perhaps they'll need to write a follow-up or two to keep the lifestyle of their dreams. I'm amazed at how many beginning writers think this way, and many readers do too. Reality is far different.

Such a scenario is so rare it's almost non-existent, given the fact that only about 1% of writers today can even make a living from their writing. Most either depend on a spouse's income or work another job and write on the side. Those who stick with it, beyond writing a book or two, are the ones who love to write. Writing is such a part of who they are, it helps define them, and they find it satisfying.

Writing isn't the easiest job in the world either. From the conception of the idea, through all the writing and editing, then working with the publisher on the necessary steps there, and all the promoting and marketing, it can be overwhelming. But, the more you love about it, the more joy it brings. I will forever be thrilled by the reader who tells me he or she stayed up all night to finish my novel, because they just couldn't put it down, or that God touched them in a special way through something I had written.  I know God has truly blessed us both, and I hope it's brought Him glory.

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