As soon as you publish a book, right?
I was visiting my girlfriend’s family for dinner a couple of weeks back and a few of us discussed many topics regarding books, art, writing, and creativity. Eventually, the topic of becoming an author came up. I had recently gotten comfortable calling myself a writer, so the idea of calling myself an author wasn’t even on my radar. Besides, wasn’t an author someone who actually has a book published?
As soon as I raised the question, one of her family members (let’s call her… Aunt Vicky), a very kind and sweet lady I might add, came up to me and looked me straight in the eyes and said, “Are you a writer? Have you written something?”
Surprised, and a bit confused, I confidently replied, “Yes.”
She gave me a warm smile and said, “Then you ARE an author.”
There was a slight pause.
This kinda blew my mind for a moment. I had never really considered myself an author. I quickly told her I don’t have any published books (yet). So, how could I call myself an author?
I asked her the question anyone in that situation would’ve asked, “Don’t I have to have a book to be an author?” She said, “You may not be a published author, but if you write…you are an author.”
Then it hit me.
I had never really thought about it that way before, but it made sense.
The moment you hit publish… you’re an author. It doesn’t matter if you’re traditionally published, self-published, a hybrid, or just write for yourself and family. As soon as you write something, you are an author. As soon as you share your writing with someone, you’re an author who has shared your work. It really doesn’t matter whether you write a book, an article on Medium, or an academic essay.
Before writing this post, I looked up the dictionary definition of the word author just to get the nagging voice at the back of my head under control. The one that kept questioning whether I could call myself an author or not. Here’s what I found:
That first line put things into perspective for me. A “writer of a book, article, or report.”
After the entire experience, it was hard for me not to think of myself as an author.
So, I’m passing along “Aunt Vicky’s” message onto you, hoping it inspires and encourages you to hold your head high the way it did for me.
“If you write… you are an author.”
I believe this is especially true if you share that writing with those who are ready to receive it. You may not be a published author, but don’t let that stop you.
Now go forth and author some stuff.
Thank you for reading. If you found this helpful and would like to learn more about igniting your creative spark, nerd out about writing, or simply want to connect, the best place to connect with me is at jeffaybar.com. Reach out anytime. You can also find me at twitter.com/jeffaybar.
Jeff Aybar is a writer, writing & creativity coach, Sci-Fi/Fantasy nerd, INFJ, veteran, and lover of all things creative. You can get a free copy of his guide for writers and artists on starting the creative journey by signing up to his newsletter HERE.