We're living in wonderful times
We live in amazing times. Even though the internet has been around for over 20 years, this is the first time in history we’ve seen people have the ability to not only communicate globally, but to write and have their voice heard without having to go through the anguish of being published.
Traditionally, you had to strive to become a writer: a journalist, an author, a magazine writer, or sometimes write a column in a local newspaper. However, it was almost impossible to get published in non-traditional means because nobody would take you seriously if you weren’t a professional. Sure, there are stories of people that wrote novels in their spare time, but you’ll rarely hear of a reporter that worked as a software engineer because they wouldn’t have the time to research anything.
With the internet, people have the ability to write about whatever they want, whenever they want. By creating a following, their voice is heard in their community, state, country, or even just their niche. The best part about it all is that it’s free. Unlike a magazine that costs $7 and maybe has 50% ads, a blog or other web site is completely free, so if a reader doesn’t like what they read, they won’t feel like their money is wasted. You could bookmark the site
This bring me to the point of this post: take advantage of this time. If you have something to write about, do it. Make a web site, a blog, a podcast, a newsletter. Get your voice heard. Not only is the internet a good tool to distribute your ideas, but it’s a great way to practice writing because you’ll get feedback from others. Of course, you don’t have to take all the advice you get, but it’s still better than writing in a vacuum. Over time you’ll have mutual followings with people of like interests and you’ll learn from these people.
Don’t ever be afraid to write. If you’re timid about writing, maybe just use your first name to make yourself comfortable with publishing under your own name. Seeing people respond to something you’ve created can be the best reward you make for yourself.
So, take advantage of this time!
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Comments
I couldn’t agree more starman. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and extending the Seesmic conversation. Writing is a powerful medium and the more who participate, the better. I just wanted to throw in a personal opinion to those thinking about starting a blog or those who would like to blog more: don’t think so much about your audience…to do so may filter what your feeling. Write for the process of writing: write to write. Be truthful, be yourself: your audience will find you.
I had always loved writing. It became truly rewarding when I started to publish on the internet. But also more demanding because I have readers now.
I enjoyed reading your post, and I agree with what you advise here, “take advantage of this time”!