Once and For All, Let's Debunk the Myth that Writing is a Waste of Time

Questioning if your writing matters? Keep reading.

Do you find yourself questioning the value of your writing time? Do you wonder if you're wasting your time putting pen to paper or typing away on your keyboard? If so, you're not alone. In today's fast-paced world, productivity is king. So, writing can often feel like a frivolous activity. But is it? Let's explore this topic and see if we can shed some light on why writing matters.

Who Gets to be a “Writer”?

One of the biggest misconceptions about writing is that you have to be a published author to be considered a writer. But the truth is, anyone can be a writer. Whether you're penning a novel, writing poetry, or simply jotting down your thoughts in a journal, if you're putting words on paper, you're a writer.

What Type of Writing is Considered Art?

Another common question that arises when we talk about writing is: What type of writing is considered art? The honest answer is that this is subjective. Some people consider poetry to be the highest form of literary art, while others find beauty in the simplicity of a well-crafted blog post. The truth is that art is in the eye of the beholder. Whatever type of writing speaks to you and moves you emotionally can be considered art.

A World Without Art

Now, let's take a moment to imagine a world without writing. It's not just books, movies, and TV that we'd be missing out on. We’d also miss out on the countless emails, text messages, and social media posts that keep us connected. Writing is the backbone of communication, and without it, we would be lost. We wouldn't have the ability to share our thoughts, feelings, and ideas. Our world would be a much lonelier place without writing.

When is Writing Productive?

So, how do we make writing “productive”? That depends on your goals. If you're a professional writer, productivity might mean churning out a certain number of words per day or meeting a deadline.

If you're writing for personal fulfillment, productivity might mean showing up and putting in the time to work on your craft. It could also mean sitting down to journal for fifteen minutes every day.

Ask Yourself Why You Think You’re Wasting Time with Writing

If you're still feeling like writing is a waste of time, it's important to examine why you feel that way.

• Are you putting too much pressure on yourself to be perfect?

• Are you comparing yourself to others and feeling like you'll never measure up?

• Are you afraid of being vulnerable and sharing your true thoughts and feelings with the world?

By exploring these questions, you can start to uncover the underlying beliefs that are holding you back from fully embracing your writing practice.

Create a Routine that No Longer Makes Writing Feel Like a Waste

If you’re spinning your wheels with your writing, you may find a change in your routine to be beneficial. Here are four tips:

1. Set aside dedicated time for writing each day or week and make it a non-negotiable part of your schedule.

2. Practice self-compassion and let go of the need to be perfect. Remember, writing is a process, and it's okay to make mistakes along the way.

3. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage your writing practice and lift you up when you're feeling discouraged.

4. Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself of how writing enriches your life.

Final Thoughts

Writing is far from a waste of time. It's a powerful tool for communication, self-expression, and personal growth. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, don't let anyone tell you that your words don't matter. Keep writing, keep exploring, and keep sharing your unique perspective with the world.

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