FFW #4: Writing Hobby Vs. Writing Practice: What’s The Difference + Does It Matter?

No matter what writing means to you, your value as a writer lies in putting words on the page, not what you do with those words.

Let’s be real: the writing community has its fair share of elitists. They sound a little bit like this:

If you’re not writing the next grand epic literary masterpiece, why bother? Fanfic? What a waste of time?? Self-indulgent inserts — no way, characters must be hollow vessels for symbolism!!!

…blegh.

For me, these baseless criticisms beg the question: who gets to decide the value of your art?

You, or someone else?

Of course, the answer is you.

Defining What Writing Means To You And Why Doing So Matters

If you feel aimless with your writing, sitting down with an old fashioned paper and pen for some serious introspection may be warranted.

Defining whether you want writing to be an enjoyable hobby or a spiritually fulfilling practice, or something in between, is an important step in writing consistently and in a way that satisfies your soul!