4 Reasons Not to Become an Author

 

There's so many reasons to love writing and pursue a career doing it, but there are a few reasons not to. Today, we'll explore some of the reasons why you should NOT become an author.

1. You Want a Quick Come Up. If you want to become an author simply because you think it's a quick way to make some cash, think again. Being an author isn't as glamorous as you might expect. Most authors won't reach the numbers of J.K Rowling or be fortunate enough to have their books make it to the big screen. If you decide to become an author, it should be because you love writing. 

2. You Think it's Prestigious. There's some professions that just sound good, you know, doctors, professors, authors...

If you want to be an author just because it sounds distinguished, you probably should change directions. It's so much more to being a writer than standing around waiting on the off chance that someone asks what you do. Besides, writing is a classic "starving artist" position. 

3. You're Not Passionate About Writing. You may have received top grades in English and grammar. You may have even written an article or two that your circle raves about. But if you're not passionate about writing, by all means, do not become an author. It takes more than "know how" to be an author. This business is hard work. Sometimes it's downright grueling, if you're not passionate about it you won't persevere, and if you do, your writing might suffer for it. 

4. Your Feelings Are Hurt Easily. When you create something, it's natural to feel protective of it - you know what it took to get it to fruition. You love it. But just because your work is nearly sacred to you, doesn't mean that it will be to others. And honestly, some people are downright mean. It's OK to not like someone's work, but their are people who live to rip your work apart (all while struggling to put a sentence together themselves). If you obsess over other people's opinions, you may not want to be an author. Or at the very least, wait until you grow thicker skin.

It all boils down to loving the craft. If you remove the money, titles, and whatever other perceived perks and you still want to write then being an author is more than likely for you.