If it Walks Like a Writer, and Talks Like a Writer...

Let's face it, being a "pre-published writer" can be a tricky thing.  We have all probably been in social situations where you tell someone you are a writer and the conversation goes as such:

Person You Just Met:  So...you are a writer?
You:  Yes.
Person You Just Met:  What do you write?
You:  Children's Picture Books, mostly.
Person You Just Met:  Wow!  That's wonderful!  Would I have heard of anything you have written?
You:  Not unless you broke into my computer!  (insert awkward laugh).
(Cue crickets to serenade the awkwardness)
You:  No actually, I am pre-published.
Person You Just Met:  Oh....
And...scene!

Have a few of these conversations and its no wonder that many of us often have trouble referring to ourselves as writers.  At least I know I do.

But the truth is, I am a writer!  And this week I embarked on a mission to feel like a writer everyday.  Now, this is different from "writing daily"..although I try to do that, too.  But I am talking about feeling like a writer everyday.

What does that entail?

First, I realize that it entails treating yourself as a writer.  For me, that means the following:

• taking time to research (ie. reading published works, reading others' blogs about the craft, reading trade publications)
• carrying a notebook around at all times and jotting down any ideas that come to me on the train or in the grocery store, etc.
• and obviously, writing daily...or as much as possible.  Meaning, always finding a project to be working on...whether that is a homework assignment, a contest entry, or simply an idea you had for the next story.

Second, look for ways for others to treat you as a writer.  This means putting yourself in a community of other like-minded people who will think of you as a writer.  Examples would be:

• Enroll in a class
• Blog
• Enter a contest
• Submit your work
• Attend a critique group
• Go to a seminar/conference
• Celebrate your accomplishments with your friends and family

The more you develop the habit of treating yourself and having others treat you as a writer, the more it solidifies this identity for you.  So...next time you sit down to read some blogs or read a published work...think of it as exploring the field.  Going to the library is professional work.  Hanging at the playground with your kids is research.  When you think like this, its easy to feel like a real writer every day.

What have you done so far this week to be treated by yourself or others as a writer?  What will you do before the end of the week?

Happy Writing everyone!