How Not to Be a Writer

We humans are the only beings on earth, amongst the other wondrous creatures living in it, which can consciously control breath to make sounds vibrate, which we then use to form words that enable us to communicate with one another. This power of speech is perhaps the greatest of the many powerful gifts given to us.

The ability to write is twin to this most powerful gift, and again, we humans are the only beings on earth able to do it, amongst the other wondrous creatures living on this earth. We are twice blessed, really blessed, indeed!

Oftentimes, though, we overlook these gifts, under appreciate our abilities to make use of them, or abuse them for purposes not exactly in line with the lofty intentions we were originally created for. Then again, perhaps, we have been taught much too often how to do it properly, that our mindset has already turned rebellious and unwilling. So, maybe, like the better remembered negative version of the Golden Rule (Do not do unto others what you would not want others to do unto you.) it is now high time to give pointers on how not to be a writer.

Do not write from your heart – not being passionate with one’s art or craft is the number one reason for failure
Do not write from your experiences – this is ignoring one’s primary database of knowledge drawn from one’s own existence
Do not write everyday – consistency is one trait common to successful writers, born of habitually and routinely handling pen and committing on paper whatever ideas come, whether it be a sudden burst of inspired genius or simply doodles of words and phrases
Do not develop your own style – a writer is known for his signature or unique personal style, unmistakable and distinctive
Do not dare to be different, copy from others – surest way to be ignored by readers and the whole community of writers
Do not be persistent, be easily discouraged – a good writer does not fear rejection or criticism or insult
Do not study or learn new things – being left behind in a fast changing world is brain death to a writer
Do not be creative, stagnate – this, on the other hand, is unmitigated brain paralysis or spinal paraplegia
Do not be observant – fresh ideas can only come from fresh external sources, an unlimited seedbed at disposal, for free
Do not be inquisitive or curious – only if one does not want a regenerated  viewpoint very necessary to a sensitive author
Do not keep up with the latest news and trends – a good writer always keeps abreast of the popular pulse and current events, and trends affecting the lives of others
Do not gain insight beyond the skill of writing – it very quickly becomes dull unless regularly honed
Do not seek good advice – most experts are ready and willing to help new writers, especially those that seek guidance
Do not allow criticism – positively taken, they go a long way towards self-improvement
Do not share you thoughts with others – an exchange of thoughts benefits both parties, multiplying what each other contributes