Writing Tip: Encourage Young Writers

So today, I am going to tell you a story. Today’s tip does not have to do with you, but rather how you can help another person’s writing journey.

Recently, I was given the opportunity to substitute at my old high school. It’s an interesting experience to say the least and I get hit with waves of nostalgia almost every time I go.

Anyway, one day I was there to substitute for 8th grade English. I was filling in for the very teacher that taught me and I was teaching the same lesson plan that I was taught. However, I specifically remember that when I was in 8th grade during this lesson plan, I was not paying attention. Instead, I was writing my fantasy novel in a notebook. Even back then, I knew that I wanted to be an author, but I also knew that my chances of becoming an author were slim to none.

On this day that I was substituting, we had inside lunch due to a storm and I started talking to the kids, asking them what they wanted to do when they grew up. One girl, very shyly and uncertainly said, “I want to write, but that won’t happen.”

“Like an author?” I encouraged her.

“Yea.” She shrugged.

She shrugged because even in her English class she probably expects to be told that the odds are against her, that no one can make a living from writing, that she needs to be putting her effort in elsewhere.

Yes, writing is hard! Yes, getting published in hard! Yes, being noticed is difficult!

BUT WHY DO WE TEACH CHILDREN TO LET GO OF THEIR DREAMS BECAUSE IT’S HARD?

I encourage you to encourage others around you in their writing. Remind them that although it is hard, it is not impossible. Specifically encourage the young adults in your life who are struggling to find their path. Remind them that they do not have to go the conventional route. Maybe they won’t succeed, but why cut them down before they’ve even had the chance to try?

©KaylaAnnAuthor

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