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Oct 28 • 2 min read

what does being a "real" writer even mean


👋 Hey, happy Monday.

This is about being a real writer, whatever that means. Read below or if this cuts off, read it on Medium.

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Some people think writing really matters only if you’re chasing publication or bestseller lists.

But here’s the thing — what if writing just for you could be the most productive thing you do?

Writing for fun

Forget the pressure to publish.

Imagine just writing for the sake of it — following your curiosity and telling a story because you feel like it.

That’s where the magic happens.

Creativity flourishes when there’s no one looking over your shoulder, waiting to judge.

You get to mess around with new ideas, take risks, and get better because you’re enjoying the process. Who knew?

Thinking about the future? Don’t.

The minute you start thinking about what your writing should be, it changes.

Suddenly, it’s about hitting the right word count, fitting into a neat genre box, and guessing what some editor or market “expert” might think. It’s like painting with someone standing over your shoulder, critiquing every stroke. You lose your flow, your freedom — and it all becomes a grind.

Treat it like it’s a big deal (even if it’s not)

Even if you don’t want to publish, still show up like a pro.

Write like it matters, because it does — to you. Set goals, keep a schedule, and treat it seriously. It’s funny how that balance — caring about your work but not stressing about “making it” — is where some of your best writing happens.

Get your own approval…

Look, getting published is great, but if you’re writing for other people’s validation, you’re doing it wrong.

What if just finishing a piece — something you’re proud of — is enough? That’s huge.

You don’t need a deal, an audience, or even approval from anyone else. The satisfaction of seeing your own work through to the end? That’s where the real win is.

And define your own success

Here’s the best part: you’re the one who defines what success looks like.

Maybe it’s finishing that short story you’ve been working on for months.

Maybe it’s just enjoying the process. Either way, writing for yourself means you set the rules.

No deadlines, no pressure — just you and the page.

Who knows, maybe by focusing on the love of writing, you’ll end up creating something others can’t wait to read.

But even if you don’t, it’s still worth it.


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Josh Spilker​


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