Becoming a Writer is Within Your Reach
Do you sit down with a story buzzing in your head, only to wonder, “Can I really become a writer?” Maybe people tell you writing is just a hobby, or that there’s no real path to making it a job. Perhaps you’re unsure if your background, age, or experience is “good enough.” If that’s you, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not stuck. You’re just wondering how to become a writer.
Here’s the truth: becoming a writer isn’t about having a fancy degree or starting at a certain age. It’s about starting where you are, learning as you go, and building real habits that make words flow a little easier each day. So, what does it actually take to call yourself a writer—and make a living at it? How do you move from scribbling notes in a journal to seeing your work shared, read, and recognized?
This guide will show you the proven steps that real writers use, the range of writing professions out there, and how you can build your skills—even if you start today. Plus, you’ll learn how to create a professional portfolio, navigate challenges, and stand tall, no matter what anyone says. Ready to get started? Let’s take the first step together.
Understanding What It Means to Be a Writer
Let’s start by clearing the fog around what it really means to be a writer. You might be picturing someone locked away in a dusty room, surrounded by stacks of books, furiously scribbling into the night. Maybe you think you need a top university degree or a publisher’s stamp of approval before you can even whisper, “I’m a writer.” Honestly, these ideas couldn’t be further from the truth—and you don’t have to take my word for it. Real working writers from all walks of life have proven otherwise, and their stories are worth sharing.
Breaking Down the Stereotypes: Anyone Who Writes Is a Writer
First, forget the outdated stereotypes. You don’t have to be a reclusive genius or “born with it” to start writing. As writers.com puts it, “Anyone who writes is a writer. Yes, including you.”
There’s no secret handshake, no gatekeeping—if you write, you’re a writer. You don’t need a published book or a pile of awards. Publication and fame are nice, but they don’t define who gets to belong. It’s your love for language and storytelling that counts. Even if you’re just journaling your thoughts, writing poems, or drafting emails, you’re already part of the club.
This isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s echoed in stories from experienced professionals. Many writers, including those featured on CareerVillage and Location Rebel, say the same in their advice: Write about what you see, what interests you, and the world around you. Your background, where you live, or your job title doesn’t matter. What matters is that you start.
No Degree Required: Success Stories from Diverse Backgrounds
Do you think you need an MFA or a fancy English degree? Think again. The truth is that many successful writers have skipped the traditional academic path.
Ernest Hemingway never went to college but still claimed a Pulitzer and a Nobel Prize. Maya Angelou didn’t attend university but became celebrated as a groundbreaking poet and professor. Asia Gregg, featured on Location Rebel, became a top copywriter with no formal writing background—she started out living in a trailer park.
This might sound surprising, but it highlights a crucial point: success as a writer stems from hard work, curiosity, and a passion for words.
Degrees can help, of course, especially if you want to go into academia or specific jobs. However, the key is to write, read widely, and learn from others. Even professional writers admit that their real education occurred outside the classroom—through practice, feedback, and experimentation.
Starting at Any Age: Examples of Late-Blooming and Young Writers
Maybe you’re wondering if it’s “too late” or “too early” to start. Good news: there’s no deadline for writing. Your age is not a barrier. Laura Ingalls Wilder published her first book at the age of 65. Wallace Stevens won his Pulitzer at 75, shocking his insurance company coworkers, who never knew he wrote poetry at all.
On the other hand, young writers are making waves, too. Think of Elna Cain’s story—starting as a writer while raising toddlers, or the 14-year-old on writers.com, eager and already building skills. There’s really no set timetable. If you feel the spark, you can start now.
The Wide Range of Writing Careers Available Today
You might still have that image of a writer as someone toiling for years on a single novel. But today’s writing careers are all over the map. Writers are bloggers, copywriters, technical writers, content creators, scriptwriters, grant writers, and more.
According to the 2019 US Census Bureau, there were 167,000 people in the US who listed “writer and author” as their primary job—more than the number of dentists! This group earns an average of $62,070 per year, higher than the national average for all jobs.
With opportunities ranging from blogging and freelance gigs to writing children’s books, educational content, or website copy, you get to craft your own path. As Oxford Scholastica notes, you can write scientific journals, computer game scripts, encyclopaedia entries, or commercial web content—there’s never been a better time to explore different options.
So, toss out the old myths and doubts. Writing is for everyone—no matter your background, age, or education. All it takes is a genuine desire to express yourself, try new things, and keep going.
Next, let’s get practical and look at the core steps and habits that will actually help you get started as a writer, based on the real experiences of people who’ve been in your shoes.
Essential Steps to Begin Your Writing Journey
Building on the truth that anyone can start writing—no matter your background, age, or degree—it’s time to talk about the habits and steps that actually move you forward.
So, what do experienced writers, educators, and professional coaches say you should do to build real writing skills and find your voice? Let’s walk through the practical steps that make the dream real, one page at a time.
Start Writing Now: The Importance of Practice and Consistency
Let’s be honest, writing only gets easier the more you do it. Every major source—from Writers.com to Elna Cain echoes this: The biggest difference between “aspiring” and “actual” writers is the act of sitting down and writing, even when you don’t feel like it.
You don’t need a perfect plan. You don’t need special software. Write in a notebook, on your phone, a blog, or wherever you feel most comfortable. Some authors aim for a daily word count (Chris at Location Rebel tries for 1,000; others suggest even 200 words a day). The real trick is to stay consistent. As Shirley from CareerVillage said, “Most importantly, write every day. Set a time…be consistent, and your stories will be born!”
And you know what? You don’t even have to love what you write all the time. The key is to keep going. “It doesn’t matter the quality of the words, only that you wrote them.” Even author Elna Cain admits, “I’m not the best out there, but I can still get paid to write.” Progress comes from momentum, not perfection. The more you practice, the easier and more enjoyable it becomes.
Honestly, the truth is simple: If you want to improve, you have to write—a lot. That’s how to become a writer – keep writing.
Reading Broadly to Improve Writing Quality
Okay, so you’re writing more. But how do you actually get better? As we said before, all great writers are also voracious readers. Reading not only fuels your creativity—it teaches you what really works on the page.
Grace, a mentor on CareerVillage, urges you to “read a lot, not just the kind of stuff you want to write, but a wide range of material.” Why? Because it exposes you to new words, techniques, and ideas, almost without you realizing it. Readers unconsciously pick up on what strong writing looks and feels like.
Don’t just stick to one genre. As Oxford Scholastica points out, today’s writers have options from fiction books and poetry to game scripts, web content, and scientific journals. Read the books you loved as a kid—maybe “To Kill a Mockingbird” or “1984”—and branch out to news, blogs, magazines, and even how-to guides.
There’s also a professional benefit: employers know that strong readers tend to be stronger writers. Kelly on CareerVillage puts it clearly: “One of the best ways to become an even better writer is through reading… Find what really resonates with you.”
So, make your local library, bookstore, or e-reader a regular stop. Let yourself be surprised. The more broadly you read, the more you’ll have to draw from in your own writing.
Experimenting with Different Genres and Niches
Now that you’re writing regularly and reading widely, it’s worth trying out new forms. Every established author recommends branching out into different genres and subjects—especially when you’re starting.
Why experiment? Because you may discover a hidden strength. Maybe you try blog posts and realize you have a gift for making complex topics simple. Or perhaps you discover joy in writing scripts, song lyrics, or children’s stories. As Elna Cain explains, “My freelance friend is a YA fiction writer…but if you want to get paid NOW…you can start as a writer for small businesses or brands.”
The real benefit here? Flexibility. You can blend your interests, just like Elna Cain did by combining parenting topics with health in her writing samples. Eric Lehman, a professor from Bridgeport University, says, “Try as many different forms and genres as possible, to figure out what you are best at… Look for opportunities that present themselves wherever you can.”
Don’t be afraid to take opportunities outside your comfort zone. Experimenting with different styles, from persuasive essays to creative fiction, will strengthen your writing muscles and help you find your authentic voice. Remember Shirley’s advice from earlier: “Think about what stories you have yet to see in the world.” Identify where your interests and skills overlap, and remain open-minded as you explore.
Learning from Feedback, Critiques, and Writing Communities
The last crucial step? Don’t write in a vacuum. As you develop, feedback moves you forward faster than going it alone. Location Rebel and Elna Cain both stress the value of honest critique. Sean Ogle from Location Rebel says, “Your mom is probably not the best person to critique your work…do everything you can to get radical transparency from those around you.”
Looking for places to get feedback? Writing forums, groups on social media, or platforms like Medium and Wattpad are gold mines, giving you honest responses and new ways to improve. As Elna Cain puts it, “Joining a writing community can boost your confidence… You can get an honest critique of your writing, share your work, and see how others approach the craft.”
Communities also help writers overcome the isolation they often feel. You’ll find encouragement, brainstorming help, and even leads for jobs or publications. Philip from CareerVillage adds, “Edit, seek feedback, learn, learn, and learn from every writing task!” The more you ask for honest reactions, the faster you’ll spot weaknesses and double down on your strengths.
The big idea? You can shortcut years of struggle by inviting others into your process.
All these habits build on each other—practice, reading, experimenting, and engaging with feedback. With these skills, you’ll be ready for whatever writing path you choose next. Up ahead, let’s talk about the wide range of professional paths and options available once you have those strong writing habits in place.
Navigating Paths and Career Options in Writing
Now that you know strong writing habits can open many doors, let’s look at where those doors actually lead. You’ve built your skills; so, what are the real jobs out there? And—honestly—how do writers actually make money? Don’t worry, we’ll pull back the curtain on writing careers using hard facts, examples, and what working writers actually do day to day.
Five Main Career Models: From 'Living the Dream' to 'The Comeback Kid'
Let’s clear up some confusion about writing careers before we dig deeper. Too often, people think you either become a superstar novelist or you’re doomed to groan over unpaid manuscripts forever. The truth? The landscape is much broader and a lot more interesting as you discover how to become a writer.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2019, about 167,000 Americans list “writer and author” as their primary job—that’s more than the number of dentists. Their average yearly income is $62,070, which is above the national average.
- Living the Dream: This is the classic fantasy—write books, collect royalties, and make a living from your stories alone. But let’s be honest, this is rare and tough. You need to publish frequently and reach a large audience.
- The Authorpreneur: Here, you build a business around your books. You might offer courses, consulting, or related products alongside your stories. This way, everything connects back to your writing life—but it takes hustle.
- The Classic Day Job: You work a regular job to pay the bills while writing on the side. Maybe you’re a teacher or work in an office. The goal is to have enough energy left for your own writing projects.
- The Professional: You earn a living directly from your writing skills—think copywriting, technical writing, journalism, or teaching writing at a university. The work is writing-focused, even if it’s for someone else.
- The Comeback Kid: Here’s one for you if writing takes a backseat for a while. Maybe you pursue another profession first, then return to writing later—just like Andrew Peterson, who began as a musician before shifting to books.
Remember, you don’t need to pick one approach forever. Many writers transition from freelancing to writing books, or from business writing to teaching, as their lives evolve.
So, which path sounds right for you? Up next, we’ll explore the freelance, blogging, and content writing world in more detail—where many new writers start earning real income the fastest.
Building a Professional Writing Portfolio and Brand
Now that you’ve seen the main paths real writers take to make a living, let’s talk about what actually helps you stand out—your professional portfolio and your writer’s brand. It doesn’t matter whether you dream of writing novels, plan to freelance for magazines, or want steady content writing gigs. Every successful writer sooner or later faces the same question: “How do I get noticed, prove my skills, and build something that grows over time?” Here are practical steps, drawn from the real advice and examples in our sources.
Creating and Showcasing a Portfolio
Let’s start with the basics. Every writer, no matter how new, needs a portfolio—an organized collection of writing samples you can show to editors, clients, or employers. As Eric D. Lehman (Associate Professor and author) explains, a portfolio is crucial once you’ve got a few publications or samples under your belt. It’s your proof you can deliver, and it’s often the first thing anyone in the industry will ask about.
You don’t need dozens of polished pieces to get started. Maybe you’ve only written for a college newspaper, a personal blog, or submitted stories to writing forums—those count! Elna Cain recommends building your portfolio one sample at a time, tailored to the niche or job you want. Suppose you’re interested in parenting and health, for example. In that case, you might write blog posts about “Best Yoga Exercises for Toddlers” or tips for getting kids to enjoy reading—real topics she’s combined in her own portfolio.
What makes a portfolio “professional”? Keep it focused, up-to-date, and easily accessible. Most writers today use an online platform: a website, a Medium profile, or even a Google Drive folder with links to your writing. According to Writers.com, a portfolio isn’t just for “professionals”—anyone who wants to get paid for writing needs one.
And yes, you can—and should—include self-published work. Nicole Dieker earned up to $1,500 a week writing content for web magazines and blogs, and she started by showcasing her own online work. Want a tip? When creating your portfolio, showcase your range while highlighting your strongest areas. If you want to write for tech companies, feature technical posts. If children’s books are your dream, share your best stories for kids.
Now that you have a sense of how to organize proof of your writing skills, let’s see how to market yourself and build your audience—to make sure your portfolio gets seen by the right people.
Up next, we’ll look at how writers build a true “author platform” using blogs, social media, and networking, all with tips from those doing it right now.
How Writers Build a True Author Platform
Every author, from debut novelists to seasoned nonfiction pros, hears the same phrase: “You need an author platform.” But what does that actually mean? An author platform isn’t a single website, a social media following, a great book launch plan, brilliant pricing strategies, or an email list—it’s the whole ecosystem of how readers find you, trust you, and stay connected to you. It’s your visibility, credibility, and relationship with the world beyond your book’s pages.
Building that platform means blending authenticity with strategy. The good news? You don’t need to be everywhere—you need to show up where it matters, consistently, and with a genuine voice. Let’s break down how writers are doing exactly that, right now.
1. Blogging: The Foundation of an Author’s Voice
A blog is still one of the most powerful—and underutilized—tools for building an author platform. Think of it as your creative home base: a space where you can explore ideas, connect with readers, and demonstrate your expertise or storytelling style.
However, modern author blogs are no longer what they were ten years ago. The most successful authors today use blogs as conversation starters rather than static journals. For instance, poet and essayist Courtney LeBlanc uses her blog to reflect on her writing process, share book reviews, and invite readers into the emotional texture of her work. Her posts feel personal, yet polished—exactly the tone that draws readers closer.
Actionable tip:
Focus on connection, not perfection. Write about what inspires, frustrates, or fascinates you. Let readers see the real you behind the words.
Publish consistently—even once or twice a month builds rhythm and trust.
Optimize each post with keywords your ideal readers are already searching for (“how to find poetry journals,” “romantic suspense writing tips,” “what to read after…”).
And most importantly: use your blog to build your list. Include a clear invitation to join your newsletter, where your most loyal followers can stay connected. A small, engaged list beats a thousand passive followers every time. So, be sure to understand how to distinguish between freebie seekers and future fans with a solid welcome email series whenever you run a free giveaway.
2. Social Media: Your Platform’s Pulse
Social media isn’t your platform—it’s the amplifier for it. It’s where your blog, book, and personality all meet the public in real time. The mistake many authors make is treating social platforms like billboards for their work instead of gathering places where communities come together.
Today’s authors who are thriving on social media are doing something different: they’re telling micro-stories.
Romance author Lucy Score, for example, uses Instagram Reels to share quick behind-the-scenes moments from her writing days and lighthearted glimpses into her life.
Brandon Sanderson connects with readers through YouTube and livestreams, offering a transparent look at his creative process.
Indie authors like Zoe York are active in writing groups on Facebook and Discord, focusing on helping others rather than constant promotion—and that generosity builds visibility organically.
Actionable tip:
Pick one or two platforms you genuinely enjoy using. If you hate Twitter (or X), don’t force it. If you love visuals, go to Instagram or Pinterest.
Create a “content rhythm”: one post that teaches, one that entertains, one that inspires, one that promotes.
Engage thoughtfully—comment, share, and show up as a reader as well as a writer.
Remember: the goal isn’t to go viral. The goal is to be findable, recognizable, and trustworthy.
3. Networking: From Isolation to Collaboration
Writing is solitary, but thriving as a writer isn’t. Networking—online and in person—is what transforms visibility into opportunity. Every author you admire has a web of relationships behind them: critique partners, mentors, newsletter swaps, podcast hosts, and event organizers.
In today’s literary world, community is currency.
Take Jane Friedman, who has become one of the most respected voices in publishing, not because of ads or algorithms, but because of consistent, generous interaction with writers across platforms. Or David Gaughran, who built his audience through transparency and trust, demystifying indie publishing for countless authors.
Networking doesn’t have to mean schmoozing. It’s about mutual support. Attend virtual author events. Join genre-specific Facebook or Discord groups. Comment thoughtfully on other authors’ posts. Reach out to readers, editors, or reviewers with genuine interest, rather than self-promotion.
Actionable tip:
Make a short list of five people in your writing niche whose work you admire—then engage meaningfully with their content once a week.
Offer something of value before asking for help or collaboration.
Don’t underestimate local connections: libraries, writing centers, and indie bookstores often host open mics, readings, and workshops that lead to friendships and cross-promotion.
4. Cohesion: Bringing Your Platform Together
A true author platform isn’t scattered—it’s connected. Your blog, social media, and networking efforts should complement and support one another. Here’s how authors are creating that flow:
Your blog drives subscribers to your newsletter.
Your newsletter drives readers to your social media, where they engage with your personality and content.
Your social media drives people back to your blog or website, where your books and upcoming events are featured.
This interconnected web builds familiarity over time—readers may first encounter you on Instagram. Still, by the time they read your blog or sign up for your emails, they already feel a sense of investment.
Pro tip: Create a simple, unified aesthetic. Use the same author photo, color palette, and tagline across platforms so people recognize you instantly. A consistent brand says, “I’m professional and present,” which builds trust before a reader even clicks “buy.”
5. Learning from Authors Doing It Right
Want inspiration from those who are doing this well today? Here are a few examples worth studying:
Tara East (YouTube/Blog): Blends creative vulnerability with solid writing advice, showing her evolution as both a novelist and teacher.
Joanna Penn (The Creative Penn): A masterclass in diversification—podcasts, blog, YouTube, and books all tied together around her brand as both creator and entrepreneur.
N.K. Jemisin (Twitter/X and interviews): Uses her voice with authenticity and courage, reinforcing her brand as a truth-teller in both fiction and real life.
Hank Green (TikTok & YouTube): Builds reader engagement by being curious, transparent, and deeply human.
What they share in common isn’t just consistency—it’s clarity. They know what they stand for, and that message echoes through every platform.
6. The Heart of It All: Authentic Connection
At its core, your author platform is not about metrics—it’s about relationships. It’s not about chasing followers; it’s about creating resonance.
Readers don’t want perfectly polished personas; they want a person they can root for. Share your creative struggles as openly as your victories. Let your personality—quirky, thoughtful, introverted, outspoken—shine through.
The best platforms aren’t built overnight. They grow slowly, like trust.
7. A Simple Starting Framework
If you’re ready to start building—or rebuilding—your author platform, try this practical, no-overwhelm approach:
Start with your hub: Set up a simple blog or website with your name and a place for readers to subscribe.
Choose one social platform: Master it before adding more.
Set a schedule: One blog post or newsletter per month, one meaningful social interaction per day.
Show your growth: Share lessons learned, favorite books, and works in progress.
Be generous: Promote others, celebrate colleagues, and respond to readers.
Do that for six months, and you’ll already be ahead of most writers trying to “build a platform.”
Building a true author platform isn’t about algorithms—it’s about authenticity, alignment, and persistence. The digital world moves fast, but the fundamentals stay the same: write with honesty, show up with generosity, and nurture your connections with care. Events like book launch parties can help build local connections and further enhance your community.
Because in the end, your platform isn’t just about book promotion and marketing—it’s the living bridge between who you are and the readers who need your words.
Common Challenges and Key Strategies for Success
Now that you know how to build your portfolio and professional brand, it’s time for a reality check. Even the best writers face serious challenges on the journey. Whether it’s cultural myths about “starving artists,” money worries, self-doubt, or the ever-famous writer’s block, everyone gets stuck at some point. But there are real strategies—backed by stories, stats, and expert advice—to help you not only survive, but thrive.
Addressing Cultural Stereotypes and Financial Viability: Data and Debunked Myths
Building on our earlier discussion about the variety of writing careers, let’s tackle the biggest myth: “Writers don’t make money.” You’ve probably heard at least one person say this. But the hard numbers tell a different story.
Take the US Census Bureau’s 2019 data: over 167,000 Americans listed “writer and author” as their main job, outnumbering even dentists. These writers made an average of $62,070 a year—more than the national average salary of $55,524. And writers don’t just compete with other artists for pay. They actually earn about $16,000 more per year than actors and $28,000 more than dancers and choreographers. It’s true that 23% of writers make under $20,000 a year, but that’s similar to professions like college professors (20%) and lower than musicians (50%).
Clearly, the stereotype just doesn’t fit. You can absolutely build a stable, even lucrative, career—as long as you approach writing with the same professional mindset you’d use for law or medicine. That means years of training, relentless practice, and responsibility for your own development. Honestly, the most significant difference is belief and persistence—if you treat writing like a “maybe someday” hobby, odds are you’ll struggle. Treat it like a true profession, and you’ve got the same shot as anyone else in a skilled career.
But even with the facts on your side, emotional hurdles can feel even bigger. And that brings us to the next set of challenges every writer battles.
The Emotional Struggles of Becoming a Writer
Fear is one of a writer’s most persistent companions. It whispers doubts—about talent, worth, originality, or whether anyone will care. The truth is, every writer feels it, from novices to bestsellers. Fear often signals that you care deeply about what you’re creating. Instead of resisting it, acknowledge it as part of the process. Write through it, not around it. Give yourself permission to produce imperfect drafts, knowing that courage in writing is not the absence of fear, but the decision to move forward despite it.
Writer’s block often arrives disguised as laziness or lack of inspiration, but it’s usually rooted in self-pressure. When words won’t come, lower the stakes. Write a letter to your character, describe your surroundings, or even journal about why you’re stuck. Changing formats, settings, or expectations can reignite the creative spark. Remember, consistency builds momentum—sometimes just sitting in the chair and writing one true sentence is enough to get the current flowing again.
Criticism, whether external or internal, can sting deeply, but it’s also proof that you’re putting your work into the world—a brave act in itself. Learn to separate your identity from your writing; your worth is not tied to anyone’s opinion. Constructive feedback is gold—use it to grow—but let go of mean-spirited voices that serve no purpose. When the going gets tough, return to your “why.” Revisit what inspired you to write in the first place, and let that spark carry you through the resistance. Persistence, more than talent, is what turns a struggling writer into a seasoned one.
How to Become a Writer: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, you absolutely can. Many working writers never earned a writing degree—Ernest Hemingway and Maya Angelou are famous examples. What’s important is practicing your craft and building a body of work, not your diploma.
Definitely. Many successful writers published their first books in their 40s, 50s, or even later. Life experience can actually give your writing more depth and insight, so it’s never too late to begin.
Yes, but it usually takes time and strategic planning. According to recent data, many writers in the US make above the national average salary by combining jobs like freelancing, content writing, and book sales. Flexibility and persistence help make writing a sustainable career.
Absolutely. Writing fits well around other jobs or family commitments. Many writers work part-time, balancing writing with another job or freelancing on the side until their writing income grows.
Yes! Many writers experiment with different styles before settling on a niche, and some continue to switch throughout their careers. Experimenting with blogging, copywriting, technical writing, or even poetry can help you find your voice and increase your job options.
Of course. You can showcase blog posts, samples written for practice, or even well-crafted social media content. Many successful writers started by sharing self-published work or samples to attract editors and clients. The key is to demonstrate your skills and style, not where the piece appeared.
