I think next time I’m dithering about whining like a professional whiner, I will come back and read this.

Excellent advice as always.

A good ol fashioned kick up the butt. I’ve met so many people who just talk about writing and don’t do it.

I am so glad I saw this on my twitter feed when I did. This came at the right time when I was completely pulverizing myself with the nonsense that I’m an useless failure when I didn’t even try to write.

…though of course I would be utterly pointless if I continued to think that way and end up being right but yes, thank you Chuck for this. I need to save this somewhere and snap myself out of it because I know I’ll sink back into it again.

But hopefully for not a long ass while. I definitely need to work on 1, 8, and 20. And a number of others but those are the top ones. It’s a great (and needed) read as always. Thank you and have a great day!

Well said. And some stuff I needed to read. Thanks.

I’ve never seen #8 put so well. Thanks, I needed this.

College may help you learn to write better, but sadly, too many college “writing workshops” or MFA’s (or whatever else they try and push as the shiny thing-of-the-moment that will get you “there” with your writing) don’t have half the actual information of your “25-things” posts. It’s sad when designated learning environments become the sort of echo chamber in #22.

Thank you so much for this, Chuck. I can’t wait to scream-send this post to people who tell me “the rules to being a successful writer”, people who try to coerce me into reading their unpublished books like I don’t have a day-job AND 8 writing projects already, and people with general know-it-all syndrome while still picking away at their first novel which started over 10 years ago.

I tilt my hat, pen, and beer to you, good sir. (I wish it wasn’t 7am so I could actually have a beer…)

“I wish I had time to write.”

I’ve heard that so many times, and I used to come back with a long speech about making time, and we all have a lot to juggle, and blah blah blah. Now I just say, “If you really wish you had time to write, you do.”

I think the same thing when a published writer (self or trad), bemoans their sudden lack of time to read now that they’re Authors. Seriously? Puh-leeze. Watch one less episode of Half-Ton Mom and read instead.

Okay, I will take off my cranky pants now.

This is a shit website that sucks a bag full of dicks. Fuck off you abusive little pricks.

As always, brilliant. I’d like to tattoo #21 to the foreheads of a few friends. I shall link them here, instead. I never understood the use of the word aspiring, for a lot of the reasons you’ve listed here. I’m a writer. I write. What happens with and to that writing is another thing entirely.

Thanks for this, Chuck.

Troll is troll-flavored.

After an excellent laugh at # 18 I’m gonna take off my twirl skirt and #8!

This is an excellent way to start my Tuesday.

“Aspiring” sounds much better in front of “writer” than “unpublished”, which is the sense in which I’ve always used it when referring to my own attempts. Isn’t it just about what each individual considers their “made it” mark is?

Marvelous, life-affirming, life-mocking, true speaking, tough talking ultimately generous and affectionate stuff! Thank you!

The one about college is SO true. Don’t get me wrong, four alcohol fueled years with other nerdy boys and girls was great, but it won’t *make* you a writer. I write some on my speculative fiction blog (which is ALWAYS looking for guest writers by the way) but I know I need to put away the books, turn off my phone and lock my husband out of my office if I really want to get work done.

A.A.

“Where were you when the world ended?” http://www.artifactsoftheapocalypse.blogspot.com

I “aspire” to be a professional writer, namely so I can write during the day and use my free time for other things, but I always write, and only very occasional about writing.

Great post.

Aspiring writers are people who want to be writers without having to go through the actual process of writing. And they aren’t limited to writing. Isn’t that what Guitar Hero does for us? We get to be kick-ass rock stars without having to actually spend hours and hours learning to play the guitar?

Such games aren’t necessarily bad, so long as we keep in mind that they are games. Personally, however, I don’t mind the wailing and gnashing of teeth as I create something that has never existed before. And then the continual revising is a positive outlet for my OCD.

My best advice to somebody with a head full of stories, who is wondering how to get them on paper? You don’t have to feel like writing to be able to write. Hell, you don’t have to feel like writing to be able to write quite well. Occasionally, things just click right along with little effort, but those times are rare. Tattoo rule number eight on the insides of your eyelids and don’t be afraid of hard work.

Sometimes we need a good kick in the pants. Well, I do anyway. I spend more time reading about writing than actually doing it. The War of Art sits beside me now, calling me to procrastination! Well it’s going to have to wait… ’cause now it’s time to write!

Well said. Thanks for the reminders.

This reminds me of some of the best advice I have ever heard about writing (from Matt Forbeck actually) and that is to simply write. It doesn’t matter what but just write, period. It is because of this that when a friend complained about needing to write that I challenged him to do just that, write. I even told him it could be as simple as writing about a cheese sandwich. It stuck, to this day we still poke each other from time to time with the tossed gauntlet of a cheese sandwich as a reminder and as motivation. I think more writers could use such advice as this, and like a undisciplined child are spoiled by the absence of a firm hand. So, thank you, for the switch. And may I have another?

Chitinous exoskeleton. I like that. It explains all the calluses.

Love it! Going to share this on FB for the many people who “aspire” to….well, do anything.

I’d love to read your opinion on literary versus genre fiction. Maybe it’s just me, but the word literature means written information. No? Batman comics are literature, aren’t they?

Do you know what forest the tree house with the sign that says, “Only literary writers allowed,” is? Are you privy to their secret handshake?

Thanks again, Chuck, you put a lot of things many of us think and feel out there.

@Selena:

I find no appreciable difference between literary and genre. Good is good. Crap is crap. Writing is writing.

The only real difference is in terms of marketing — which is useful to know and understand, but not all that useful in terms of writing your work.

– c.

Best ‘so you wanna be a writer’ essay I’ve ever read, and I’ve read lots.

Love you Chuck.

Absolutely amazing, wonderful, perfect list.

I needed this today.

My favourite?

Number 8.

FINISH. YOUR. SHIT.

Because it always starts out as shit and then we all have to dig through all that crap to find that shiny pearl we accidentally swallowed… Okay that’s not a very good analogy.

But I shall live by this principles.

Especially: FINISH YOUR SHIT.

I totally agree with you! I wrote something similar on a blog once, and was attacked by the “clubs” members. LOL Didn’t phaze me, I’ve read wonderful genre books and wonderful so-called literary fiction and have also read crapola on both sides.

*THESE* principles. XD

Oh, how many discussions there have been about who has the ‘right’ to call themselves a ‘writer’ or an ‘author’. And people who claim you have to outline or face massive chaos, or swear prologues are the death knell for any book, who tell you self-publishing is the only way to be a ‘smart writer’, who insist their way is The Way to success. Thank you for yet another column of sweet (and sour) truth!

Hey, Chuck, will you read my stuff?????

haha

Unfortunately, while my work has plenty of sex and violence, it likely has too few mythical creatures for your taste. I’ll work on that in the upcomings.

Meanwhile, the toughest part for me has been the slings and arrows in my face and heart. I haven’t gotten any bad reviews on my novels (yet) but when I used to post shorter stuff on my blog, the trolls came out in force. My notoriety made it impossible to avoid them, and they were cruel. However, since talking about my feelings is generally uninteresting, I shall only say that my kung-fu is strong, and my pimp hand stronger.

thanks to fine teachers such as yourself, and the school of hard-ass knocks.

I’ll keep coming back.

“You don’t just do a little ballerina twirl and a book falls out of your vagina”. Loved that line so much I spat my coffee over my desk.

I have seen plenty of “real” writers who vehemently disagree with your first point. (And this goes for artists too). If you don’t get paid, you are not qualified to call yourself a “professional” anything. The famous guy playing violin in the subway? Yeah, he has a day job with a prestigious orchestra.

I wasted years aspiring instead of being. I offer my cautionary tale here.

http://danielboshea.wordpress.com/2011/01/20/wasted-time-confessions-of-a-recovering-dilettante/

And I applaud the Chucks of the world for recognizing the fraud of aspiration early in life and tearing out its throat in their youth before the shackles of inertia had time to rust in place. In Barbara Tuchman’s marvelous history A DISTANT MIRROR, she quotes the stone marking the grave of a French noble who, in his day, stode astride his world like a collusus.

As you are now, so once was I
As I am now, so you will be

Today, he is remembered only by historians. Your clock is ticking, the sand is emptying from your glass, and only fate knows if that glass marks years or days or hours. Gather ye rosebuds, because that rumbling you hear behind you, that is time’s winged chariot, and the driver is always going to the whip.

And neither can you waste a moment lamenting the sand already past. You can’t have it back or change any sin, whether of ommission or commission that marked its passing.

Forward, penmonkeys! Saddle up the work of your choice! Tease it with carrots! Spur or whip its flanks into bloody froth! Ride its ass into the ground and then carve its meat into finished stories before mounting the next beast and the next and the next. Go not gentle into that good night. Hell, don’t even go gentle into lunch.

@Amber:

I used to feel the same way. That’s an ultimately elitist perspective (and, as noted, one I possessed) — it’s a way for published or professional authors to make themselves not merely feel good, but better than those who have not been published.

Thing is, who cares? That’s all nonsense. You’re either doing the work or you’re not. You’re either a writer in action and identity or you’re a poseur who talks about it instead of doing it.

Writers writer.

That’s what makes a writer.

Anybody who wants to say differently, that’s their business. But for me, I’m happy to add the distinction “published” or “professional” to create that nuanced definition.

– c.

I love the use of the word “ordure” in one sentence followed by “Chuck-E-Cheese” in the next! Awesome!

Thanks. I needed that reminder.

That was some awesome, laser accurate, intensely nutritious advice. I have one question: Can i get a t-shirt with that A-Z skull art???

Bwuahahaha: Complete Your Feces! Nice.

Too late for No. 14 (but I did have extenuating circumstances). I’m learning to sink or swim. I’m swimming, mostly.

I hang my hat on that this year I moved from “aspiring” to “emerging,” and someone else wrote those words.

Time to write. Word count waits for no one.

BTFO!

What can I say? Your advice throttled my brain and shook me out of a major slumber.

Cheers to that. I shall now write religously and probably not have time to read your stuff.

Thank you! Gracias! Danke! Merci! Syukuria! Arigato! Mahalo!

Perfect time for me to find this. I’ve retired and all close relatives have sickened and died…including my husband. And all reasons not to write have died with them.

I’ve dug out some old stuff and found I still like the characters and ideas. So instead of agonizing about it being out of date, I shall finish it and worry about marketability later.

Thanks, Barbara

Thanks for that. Seriously.

While I found this blog really funny and semi motivational, I will offer you a bit of critisim. Call it a testiment to your ‘thick skin.’ The point you were heading for was made halfway through the blog. After that, you were just kicking a dead horse and pressning bits of witty albeit bleak opinions. I’m sure you know this already, and I’m not trying to rain on your parade or any other such nonesense. I just wanted to point out that while being a writer means write, write, write you also have to know when to stop, stop, stop. I’ve done the same thing plenty of times. Why? Because when writers are on a roll we tend to think everything we create must must be enjoyed. That being said, I did enjoy your points. Thanks for sharing.

*preening not pressing. I am so freaking sick of auto correct!!!!!!!

This is the metaphorical kick in the rear I needed. Great advice!

I LOVE this! entire post, but mostly this:
‘You should aspire to be a better writer.’

Absolutely. And person. We have far too many people who don’t aspire to just BE better.

I call myself a writer, because I write. What I don’t call myself is an author. Because one does not equal the other. And unfortunately, ‘author’ does not mean someone who has a really awesome 167 page word doc that her mother absolutely loves.

Maybe people should call themselves “aspiring authors.’

Or, just for fun, ‘aspiring New York Times Bestselling Authors.’

Because you’ve got to have dreams, right?

[...] Twenty-five no-nonsense admonishments for aspiring (and procrastinating) writers (from TerribleMind… [...]

@Jennifer:

I disagree! I mean, yes, all the points in this post are geared toward an overall point, and each kind of reiterates and reflects that point somewhat, I’d say all (or, most, at least) have their own things to say, whether it’s about self-publishing or a writer’s depression or writer groups or college, etc.etc. — yes, they all drive home the core tenet (which is to write), but each ideally offers some other little snidbit of wisdom and/or absurd penmonkey reflection.

– c.

I’m going to print out a copy of #8.

Thanks. Got it.

I’m literally rolling over #8. Think I’ll print that out and tape it to my monitor.

The highlight of my morning….thank you once again for my morning laughs while still taking away something useful.

Every time I read these lists, I feel the spittle coming off the screen. And I like it. Does that make me a freak? No need to answer that.

Jessa – “I call myself a writer, because I write. What I don’t call myself is an author. Because one does not equal the other”

Tomato, ‘tomahto’ – same thing. Anyone who writes something has authored it – therefore they’re an author. Otherwise, saying “I’m a published author” is just redundant. More quibbling for the sake of egos, I’m afraid.

Great stuff. I’ve been a writer my entire adult life (newspaper, PR, etc.) and am now trying to turn the corner and write fiction as I’m about to hit 40. Chuck’s stuff is great for the young writer who has never had anything published or for people like me who are looking to completely change their writing style and their comfort level within the writing world.

Finish. Your. Shit. = the best writing advice IMO.

Great kick in the ass Chuck.

Taking a lunch-break from my week-long internet hiatus (see point #8), to offer a bit of commentary on your well-considered Point 17, “Meet The Universe In The Middle.”

From a little-known scribbler by the name of Stephen King:

“To be successful, the artist in any field has to be in the right place at the right time.

The right time is in the lap of the gods, but any mother’s son or daughter can work his/her way to the right place and *wait.*”

[...] 25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called “Aspiring” Writers, by Chuck Wendig (thanks for the recommendation to my fantastic blogging friend, K.T.Hanna!) [...]

#19 Makes me want to have a strong drink then punch myself in the face.

#20 FTW. Although I’d maybe venture that being depressed by such things makes me more determined and, dare I say it, more willing to branch out. Case in point: I finished a novel 2 years ago which I ended up self publishing. It hasn’t sold well, but damn I love that book. I felt supremely awesome for about 2 weeks. I was proud of the book and even if it only sold 5 copies, I didn’t care. I felt like a writer and MAYBE a good writer.

Then I finished reading The Sirens of Titan by Kurt Vonnegut. And I am now wondering if, as writers, NONE OF US should read Vonnegut. Reading him always makes me feel like a vagrant writing dirty limericks on a bathroom stall in an Arby’s. I was down on myself for about a week until I decided that the self-pity was useless. Maybe it was time to aspire to write something as great as Cat’s Cradle or Slaughterhouse 5 and just get over myself and WRITEWRITEWRITE.

I used to call myself an “aspiring writer,” but I knocked it off for pretty much the reasons you talked about in point 1. I’m writing these days. I’m finishing my shit. I’m editing my shit, and will submit it for publication. “Feeling like a writer” doesn’t fit into this definition anywhere, unless it has something to do with the nasty flare-up of carpal tunnel I’m fighting this week.

I’m curious if #22 is inclusive of all writing groups. I think the writing group I’m in manages to avoid either trap pretty well; they regularly light a fire under me, and a couple of us have gotten published since joining. I might never have submitted if not for them. Feedback is constructive or GTFO.

I wouldn’t drop the group on your say-so, but I’m wondering if you’re saying that all writing groups become an echo chamber, or if you’re saying how to recognize if they are.

I’ve read some of the copy machine’s stuff, it’s good. Little derivative, though.

Thank you, once again, for a great post.
I still hear your advice about the “other story” being like a fling behind the school and it keeps me on track, focussed on completing one story at a time.
Now, I have “COMPLETO EL POOPO” to go with it

Thanks as always for the much-needed kick in the ass. You are the oddest motivational speaker I know and that’s why I keep coming back to read your stuff.

I like to call myself an “aspiring novelist” because I am working on a novel or three and I consider it done, well, when it is done. I think I have embraced the grim truth that I am a writer, because I can’t stop.

I have at times fantasized about asking someone to read my work, but I know it sucks, won’t unsuck for a while, and in the end, no matter what someone else says about my work, what really matters is how I feel about it, how much I like it and of course how well my opinion of it aligns with “is this actually good writing and storytelling” or not. This is a DIY biz, where you plot your own course and no one really knows you are there until you arrive. Like subspace and FTL in a way. When your ship runs into a planet, you’ll know it, but until then good luck mapping coords.

COMPLETO EL POOPO.
Si. That’s the only way to earn una cerveza at 5 p.m.

I’m going to mentally refer to you as Dr. Wendig from here on out.

A most profound collection of writing advice. Thanks, Chuck. Btw, where can I find that testicle-tickling festival? I’ve been Googling for hours with no luck. :p

I’se be a profeshional riter ’cause I’se been paid and shit.

This is an awesome list otherwise, but I disagree somewhat with 13. Reading did make me a writer, and even when I was young and not reading critically, it gave me a familiarity with and a love for language that aids and abets me every day. Reading widely and constantly has been the single most useful thing to my writing that didn’t actually involve, you know, writing.

Ha. Sweet “advice”.

[...] 25 Things I Want To Say To So-Called “Aspiring” Writers. Rate this: Share this:Like this:LikeBe the first to like this post. This entry was posted in [...]

Goddam it, I’m at work now. I need to hear this at home when I’m slacking off. I’m going to print it out and paste it on my forehead. Thanks I really really really really needed to hear each and every of those 25 gems. By the way did I say I needed to hear them?

#12 makes me slightly regret being a college student and a writer…

I am a WRITER, though, not an ASPIRING writer. My “aspirations” so far have culminated in some concrete accomplishments, of which I am justifiably proud. *ignores jealousy and depression*

I love almost all your posts. I agree with every single one of the points in this post, so of course I love it. #6 spoke to exactly what was going through my pointy little head today, so thank you for that. Butt duly kicked. And everybody needs #25 unless we’ve decided to quit the whole writing thing.

Now we’ll see if the website will allow this comment, unlike the last several times I’ve tried to comment here.

Bra-vo. Bravo!

I’ve been wrting and editing since 1999 and only in the last two years have I given myself permission to think of myself, to publically acknowledge myself, as a writer. And now I get paid (again) for doing it. So, to be is the question, there is no being not.

And fuck me I do like to mix a methaphor. Oh! That should be a drink. Or a name for a band. Mixed Methaphor. I won’t go with the more obvious “name for a blog.”

How many “aspiring” writers are fallowing you after they read that note? You don’t have any, you say? Oh, well… Keep on insulting us, we’ll come around. (Note: Heavy sarcasm. Don’t flatter yourself.)

Looks like I have some shit to finish.

You’re an angry little attack muffin, aren’t you? A muffin flavored with piss and vinegar. What a shame…I just lost respect for 99.99% of the literate population.

Freaking loved this post and I’m glad books don’t fall out of vagina’s–it’d get too bloody and writing’s hairy enough as it is.

Thanks for all this awesomeness *goes off to purchase your books*

The best advice i ever got for any of my creative endeavours was;

“Shut the fuck up and just do it”

Oftentimes, the poop I use isn’t even calcified. Nice post!

I owe you a beer.

[...] leave you with this link here by Chunk Wendig which was floating around ye olde twitter [...]

This is the BEST thing I have read on writing EVER! Taking communion at the church of Terribleminds.

I’m slightly bemused at those who’ve taken offense at this post — it’s no different than saying an architect designs buildings — he/ she doesn’t just sit around talking about designing buildings.

Every writer in the world, published or not, occasionally needs a butt-kicking to remind us that staring off into space or making character charts is not going to result in a book. Thanks for that, Chuck.

“Fallowing” is the most brilliant pun for a would-be writer who isn’t writing I’ve ever seen. Bravo!

Question: synthesizing two of the points from the post above (money not devaluing art and career requirements making professional writers indisposed to reading amateurs’ manuscrpits), what if I paid you to read my work?

You mean this like hard?

Number 22. OMG. I have seen this; in fact I’m in it right now. And it is HORRIBLE. Thanks for the boot to the rear. I’m off to find some C4.

Good shizzle, thanks!

#12 “salad days” – just in case you actually wanted to know, Shakespeare’s Cleopatra coined this phrase when she is referring to her “green” youth, her naivity. She is looking back at when she was young and foolish! Well, when she was having an affair with Julius Caesar so presumably it was fun at the time – but she regrets it now.

So I guess it does still fit with college partying.

Brilliant I laughed, I cried. But damn good advice.

I feel both violated and motivated st the same time. What an odd sensation… I will now do as you say and go write my shit.

[...] that got a lot busier last week.  So, lurkers, strike while the iron is hot!  Ditch the aspiring writer label and just sit down (or better yet, stand!) and [...]

Well said!

[...] Wendig has this to say: You learn early on how to write. But for most authors it takes a long time to learn how they in [...]

I’ve read an article from Chuck before that contained advice on starting one’s creative bowel movement, but I can’t remember him spelling out that you have to finish it. It always made sense to me to drop the whole log, even if I had to bring a newspaper and the jaws of life, but I think it’s necessary to point out sometimes.

I think it’s also important to say that you may have to squeeze it out one pellet at a time, grunting, red-faced, and close to aneurysm. Once you do, however, no matter how or even IF it sells, you’ll feel a thousand times better.

Love it, love it, love it! This made my long, hard-working, writing-for-shit-pay day altogether.

It was sent to me by my writes-between-breaking-up-kid-fights daughter.

Now, I think I’m gonna steal this, print it, post it above the computer and go find all those piles of shit I wrote 20 years ago and start writing for fun again.

Thanks for the kick in the ass. I needed it.

Found the link to this on the Facebook page from a well known, prolific, and published writer.

Great read.

@Wade:

Might I ask who?

Thanks!

– c.

I can only hope, one day, to be called “an angry little attack muffin.”

My biggest demon on this list – FINISHING WHAT YOU STARTED – I am FINALLY tackling this year. A book I have left unfinished for ten damn years is finally getting done goddamn it. Is it worth it? To me it is. Will it be any good? Well, that’s for the second, third and fourth drafts to determine. But I need this done – without completing this it represents an incomplete section of my life as a writer. It had gotten to the point where I would say, “One of these days I will finish that damn novel.”

And now, today, this year, I am doing it. I am conquering my demon. And I AM a writer – screw aspiring.

Bravo! Funny and true and inspiring as can be. Thank you for making me proud to call myself a writer (note I didn’t say “aspiring”). My book may not be published yet, but I wrote it, therefore I am a writer.

My husband is also from the woods of Pennsyltucky. Now I know why I love this blog so much. Not that I love Tucky- sorry- but the kick of real it brings to my over-educated and new agey self. Thanks for keeping it straight.

By my reckoning, it takes at least ten years of hard work to become an overnight success.

Doc

About #20–sure, I’m supremely happy that every other writer gets published. Of course I am.
Is this just me though?–I swear to God I can’t say, “Good for you” without it sounding sarcastic. That doesn’t make me a sociopath, it just makes me an asshole.

Hello -c

A friend of mine here in Thailand Christopher G. Moore, the link to his website is below.

What he wrote on his FB page was.

A lot of people have a list of rules for aspiring writers. Some of these lists are better than others. I came across this list which has a few pearls of wisdom for all writers: aspiring and professional. And you are guaranteed a good laugh, too

http://www.cgmoore.com/

Not ashamed to admit it. I needed this. Time to get out of the slump and start punching out the word babies again. Thanks.

I guarantee at least half the people who claim this gave them a proper kick in the ass will continue to remain at the starting gate, engines humming. As much as I agree with everything the author says in this editorial, it really should go without saying. Unfortunately, we live in a society where too many are convinced they are one blog posting, one viral video away from international stardom. The problem is they’re often correct. We value fast success over consistent productivity. Writing is a compulsion. You either have it or you don’t. This author could kick you in the ass a thousand times over, but if you don’t feel compelled to spill out whatever’s inside you then you should be doing something else. If you should come to that realization that writing is not for you, that’s not a failing in you. Everyone brings something to the table. Figuring out our function in the machine is what life is all about.

Great post. I’m off to mother-fucking write now! Ciao!

[...] 25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called ‘Aspiring Writers’ by the word-pirate Chuck Wendig [...]

[...] We both got kindles for Christmas this year and she shared a wealth of information with me about sites to find free books on, it’s something that I still utilize on a daily basis. Tonight I got online and saw that she posted this article http://terribleminds.com/ramble/2012/02/21/25-things-i-want-to-say-to-so-called-aspiring-writers/ [...]

Okay, I’m sitting in my tortoise outfit with my book jammed up my vag, so I’ll start typing just as soon as I’ve RT’d this.

Gawddamnit, Chuck. Thanks for this.

good advice.

I know I use LOL more than a 30-something year old woman should but I literally LOL’d reading this piece. Good stuff.

Great piece. I like the part about learning how to communicate first. I’m a copywriter by trade. Sold a ton of shit writing like target markets think. Have been a ‘writer’ my whole life – even going back to childhood. Getting paid to sell shit still makes me a writer, right? I blog a lot. I blog a lot because I NEED to finish my shit. I’m so obsessed with finishing my shit, in fact, that I can’t bring myself to write works longer than a thousand words. So now what? I mean, I have these stories – but I want them to end sooner than they need to end. So I rush them so I can finish. It’s absurd. Anyway, thanks.

Excellent advice. Though, I feel as if I’ve been scolded. >_> LOL

Well put. After I published my first book my inbox seemed to be flooded with mails from “aspiring writers”. Half a year late none of them has started writing anything.

I am bookmarking this post. It might use it as an answer next time.

Thanks

*APPLAUSE* What a great post! I would also add “Get rid of the people in your life, especially the aspiring writers, who take up your writing time whining about the writing they’re not doing.”

So much to say about this! But I think I’ll go write instead…

Thanks!!!

[...] that you’ve decided you’re a writer, head over to Chuck Wendig’s post about 25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called Aspiring Writers for some hilarious but seriously kick-ass [...]

@Jeff Shane
I more or less agree with you. This article was amusing and motivational, worth reading, but if you don’t already have the drive to be productive, no inspirational article is going to fix that. My own experience has been that, despite reading plenty of motivational books and articles, I spent a long time thinking and talking about writing, but not doing any writing. It takes a change of personality, which comes over time and with great effort. That’s not to say that reading this article is useless. Articles like this might help people realize what to change, or how to change it. But still, change is required. I think many people believe they are on the brink, and the simple act of reading a motivational post or two will provide the impetus to push them over the edge. Regardless, thanks for another good read Chuck.

[...] sort of Writer’s version of Turrets; but, he’s dead bang-on right about his advice. So read it here (at your own risk) and digest. And then go finish some morning pages. Now your moment of Writing [...]

[...] http://terribleminds.com/ramble/2012/02/21/25-things-i-want-to-say-to-so-called-aspiring-writers/ [...]

hot damn! I’m all far’d up (that’s fired up for you non-mountain people).

This is more like a peep talk for me. THANKS! Love this shit! Every time I get lazy or tired of the whole thing, I’m gonna read this. Hhehee.

You are quickly becoming the Stephen King of the “How to” world…. or maybe you’re already there.

If you haven’t done it already, I’d love to see 25 things you have to say about self editing.
mh

Thanks. All totally sound advice. I may even take some of it!

change the word “writer’ to ‘ musician” and this is some of the best advice for them i ve ever seen:) great article………

[...] So begins his list of 25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called “Aspiring” Writers. [...]

You don’t mess around, do you? Hah. Thanks for another kick in the ass, much needed.

I blogged about this post here: http://sniderwriter.com/2012/02/22/aspiring-writers-take-note/. I want everyone reading your stuff.

Amen brother!
I’ll add another one in Afrikaans – Maak klaar jou kak!

This is now in my bookmarks. Motivation ftw.

[...] Chuck Wendig has twenty-five things he wants to say to “aspiring” writers. The list is a worthwhile read although Wendig’s language skews blue. [...]

[...] have never heard of Chuck Wendig until I stumbled upon his 25 hilarious (but needed) advice to writers. Go visit – it’s like a jolt of caffeine! And though I told myself to not fill this [...]

[...] 25 Things I Want To Say To So-Called “Aspiring” Writers. Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:LikeBe the first to like this post. [...]

[...] of the people I follow is Chuck Wendig and his Terrible Minds blog. He recently gave some advice to aspiring writers. Most of it made me nod in agreement, but I [...]

A downright worthy read.

I’m gonna’ sit my arse down right now and get to writing, not because this article or anyone else told me to… But because I know what I need to get done! And so I shall!!!

I stumbled on your entry by mere coincidence through another blog. I am so fortunate to have read it – it reiterated some of things I’ve been thinking of myself. I have only recently started writing more consistently, short ‘essays,’ thoughts, writing exercises, but the key is that I write one to two days each week s-o-m-e-t-h-i-n-g. I read more at this point than I write, but I read to learn and to apply myself (and of course for the pleasure of reading books – i love books). Thanks for this entry! I’m excited I stumbled on it. I will list it on my blog .

I’m bookmarking this, for always. Where’s that teeshirt you had for sale? I can’t find it. I want one.

[...] to hear what inspires other authors, or how they got to where they are. Chuck Wendig has 25 things he wants to say to so-called aspiring writers, while Karen Mahoney talks about the turning points that made her an author. R.S. Guthrie urges us [...]

[...] then, well… less writing. But I’m changing that this year. Thanks for stopping by. Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:LikeBe the first to like [...]

This is fabulous. I’m sure I’m just echoing the 142 comments above, but seriously, I want to scream these rules on repeat.

Thank you, Chuck. I was feeling all depressed today after an agent who requested my first 60 pages turned it down with a very polite “thank you, but”. Now I’m going to get up off my arse and continue down the road, sloughing off all the bad crap I was telling myself about this industry, and get back to – WRITING.
Patti

[...] recently read an article (Right here!) written by what I can only assume is a good writer. The article was not unique in content: all it [...]

[...] an eye opener for people who want to get into the industry. The full blog post can be found at: http://terribleminds.com/ramble/2012/02/21/25-things-i-want-to-say-to-so-called-aspiring-writers/. Here are a few of the things he says that I think fit in with here I am in my writing at the [...]

[...] 25 Things I Want To Say To So-Called “Aspiring” Writers Seen a lot of folks giving advice to so-called “aspiring” writers these days, so, I [...]

[...] CLICK HERE for 25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called “Aspiring Writers” Share this:TwitterLike this:LikeBe the first to like this post. [...]

This … *this* is good s**t.

Great. BUT…can I get this in a shot? Glass, intro-venus, I don’t mind which. And to go, I have writing to do …

[...] Wendig holds nothing back, as usual, as he offers 25 things he wants to say to aspiring writers. My favorite is #8. It’s so good, I think it deserves its own quote: I’m just going to type [...]

[...] Chuck Wendig gives “aspiring writers” a little tough love. [...]

You, Sir, are a genius. I shall spread this piece as wide and as far as the webnetty thing will permit. Thank you.

[...] 25 Things I Want to Say to So-called “Aspiring” Writers – A little tough love. Share this:TwitterFacebookLinkedInEmailLike this:LikeBe the first to like this post. [...]

Maggie Stiefvater posted it on her Facebook page, too.

Maggie Stiefvater (Really, it’s me)
I could never be this blunt to writers out there (nor swear this much on my blog), but, this: http://terribleminds.com/ramble/2012/02/21/25-things-i-want-to-say-to-so-called-aspiring-writers/ (and don’t say I didn’t warn you on the swearing).

Well, you’ve got me pegged.

great advice, too true

That is some of the best advise I’ve ever heard. Can I post this in my online bookstore please.

[...] An entertaining list for “aspiring writers.” Share this:Share [...]

I’ve read a lot of advice since I’ve been writing and I have to say this is the most down to earth and sound advice of it all. Thanks for sharing. ^_^

[...] The good people running the UT American Studies twitter account (which deserves to be followed @AmStudies) posted a link to this piece by Chuck Wendig titled, 25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called ‘Aspiring’ Writers. [...]

COMPLETO EL POOPO
BUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
Am putting that on my fridge.

[...] Chuck Wendig’s 25 Things series continues with 25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called “Aspiring” Writers. [...]

Completely awesome… somebody who says it like it is…

I thank Helen for directing me here and I am off to spread this word..x

[...] 25 Things [...]

Thanks for this Chuck! Exactly what I needed to hear right now, knee deep in rewrites and edits. . Now if I could just find the goddamn “Subscribe” button, my life would be complete!

[...] 25 Things I Want To Say To “Aspiring” Writers by Chuck Wendig. [...]

Had to wipe off my screen after reading #18.

Read this at the perfect moment. Laughed me cock off too! Just off to find it…

Cheers, Chuck.

Regards,
Col

[...] http://terribleminds.com/ramble/2012/02/21/25-things-i-want-to-say-to-so-called-aspiring-writers/ [...]

Excellent post! So much of it resonated with me.

[...] http://terribleminds.com/ramble/2012/02/21/25-things-i-want-to-say-to-so-called-aspiring-writers/ [...]

Love this so, passed it on to share, hope that’s okay!!
Helps keep us dithering writers going, thanks Chuck!!!

[...] Chuck Wendig has 25 things he wants to say to so-called “aspiring” writers. [...]

[...] From Chuck (NSFW) Wendig - 25 Things I Want To Say To “Asprigin” Writers. [...]

I’m so glad you said it! #19. I have regular requests from writers who want me to read their work…even more so, writers that want to collaborate with me on a project. I’m probably one of the most encouraging people you can meet, but a) who am I? My reading your work means jack! b) I’m a writer! I have my nose buried in my own writing. If I stop to read for other writers I am taking time away from my incurable urge to write and delaying additional potential income. As for collaboration, I don’t see the purpose. I like being “god” in my little world. I don’t want someone messing with my kingdom. Collaboration, IMHO, is for writers who feel they’re own work is not good enough or who want to ride the coattails of an established author who has worked that tail off to get to where they are. I guess collaboration can be enjoyable if it is with an author who you know and feel confident will blend well with your style. Forgive me…I’m venting. I don’t mean to be harsh, but if you ask to collaborate with me when you haven’t even read my work, you’re asking for the wrong reasons.

I want to wallpaper my room with this post.

[...] As Chuck Wendig says, “finish the shit that you started.” It insinuates that the first draft of anything is shit, and it does not become not-shit until it’s finished. It’s a good concept to absorb. He also has something to say about “aspiring writers”, found here. [...]

Awesome. Thanks for saying the things that some people are always afraid to admit.

Does that mean our exoskeleton needs to be water-proof, too?

[...] 25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called “Aspiring” Writers by Chuck Wendig [...]

If you are such a great writing expert why do you have to resort to scatology and four letter cuss words in your blog? I find these totally off-putting.

@Blake:

Because profanity is a circus of language, and I choose to be its ringleader.

If you find that off-putting, that’s fine. You don’t have to like what I write. That’s totally okay.

– c.

[...] them out, swaddle your head in tinfoil, and keep writing anyway. Read more about Chuck’s 25 Things He Wants to Say to So-Called Aspiring Writers at Terribleminds. Related PostsThank You, DragonladyOn the Value of Short Stories3 Reasons Why [...]

Loved this, four letter words and all.

Love it especially on a day when my book got a bad review. Thick skin firmly back in place.Fuck ‘em (from the girl who *hardly* ever uses four letter words. Okay, now I’m all jazzed up and ready to get back to the long slow slog of editing book 2.

I want to have your babies….that’s all I have to say.

Was having a bad day, beating myself up for how slowly my revisions are taking me. Read this. Don’t feel better but got a second wind. Tomorrow will be better.

[...] seen this post a few times but now feel compelled to link it up to my blog. It’s great advice for beginner [...]

Not what the hoity-toities of the literary world put out for bait but very interesting….

You sir are awesome.

Where have been and I’m so glad Dan Dillard posted this site on facebook. Your helpful hints are honest and more realistic than I’ve been seeing in the past and I will now follow your site.

[...] There is no try, Yoda says, only do and not-do. Yeah, I know. However, there’s a lot of idiom to unpack in that one little chestnut. Luke’s “I’ll try” also means “forgive me if I fail”. And Yoda’s denial of “trying” means “I’m going to call your failure a failure, and you shouldn’t care whether I forgive you.” Not going to gentle the truth, whatever it might be. Everyone loves that shit. [...]

[...] whether I should go as an ‘aspiring writer’ (which sounds both dickish and pathetic, as this super funny post points out) or come clean about who I am and what I write. The other day I called it ‘experimental [...]

I just wanted to let you know how much I got out of this article. It was very insightful and I recommended it on my blog for beginning writers.
http://the-beginning-writer.blogspot.com/2012/03/fridays-link-roundup.html

[...] 25 Things I Want To Say to So-Called “Aspiring Writers” [...]

[...] Terrible Minds: 25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called “Aspiring” Writers Excerpt:  I’m just going to type this out a dozen times so it’s clear: finish your shit. [...]

[...] 25 Things I want to say to so-called “aspiring writers” Chunk Wendig gives his usual shooting straight from the hip writing advice to “aspiring” writers. Lots of good ideas out there, but none of it is gospel. One person will tell you this is the path. Another will point the other way and say that  is the path. They’re both right for themselves, and they’re both probably wrong for you. We all chart our own course and burn the map afterward. It’s just how it is. If you want to find the way forward, then stop looking for maps and start walking. Plagiarism The dignity of labour It’s been a month of drama, with at least two cases of plagiarism or alleged plagiarism breaking in the romance writing genre. Aleksandr Voinov talks about the psychology of the plagiarist. Every time they get an email saying “I loved your book” should feel like a red-hot needle piercing their heart. They know they cheated, that they haven’t achieved anything but fooling some good people and wasting everybody’s time. Deep down, plagiarists are very unhappy people, even if they sell a lot of books, even if they get away with it.  Misc [...]

[...] hawking. What else is going on? Well, as this wonderful, funny, and very very accurate post, “25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called Aspiring Writers,” so ardently proclaims: a writer writes! I’ve been… not writing as much lately, [...]

Completo el poopo! LOL! I’m going to be saying that all week to everyone I know. They are going to think I’m a lunatic! Ha ha! There really are no maps! that is exactly why I am and must be the captain of my career…me and no one else. Soy Capitan with a capital C.

wamble more, ramble less, write more or less. End of Story.

[...] On Finishing what you start [...]

[...] http://terribleminds.com/ramble/2012/02/21/25-things-i-want-to-say-to-so-called-aspiring-writers/ This entry was posted in Uncategorized by deborah. Bookmark the permalink. [...]

[...] always love the way author Chuck Wendig gets right to the heart of the matter. NSFW and not safe for those who make [...]

[...] school, illustrated by our class). Nevertheless, I write therefore I am a writer. In the words of Chuck Wendig ‘no more [...]

Hammer-to-the-head motivation. Brutal, blunt, and bang-on. I’ve bookmarked this page and will re-read when my motiviation is flagging.

[...]                      ~Chuck Wendig [...]

[...] all things good, I found this by Chuck Wendig via twitter. There’s copious amounts of awesome profanity but he’s saying things I [...]

Actually, not only is talking about writing not the same as writing, it is actually anathema to writing. It dissipates that vital urge to communicate that is the basis of all good writing. Writings write because they feel they have something to say, and if you say it in words to your friends, you will be way less likely to take the harder route of saying it in words in your writing. Keep that shit bottled up and gives it only one way out : WRITING.

[...] I first encountered the blog “25 Things I Want to Say to So-Called ‘Aspiring’ Writers,” I thought, ‘Well, hey!  I’m an aspiring writer.  Here’s an opportunity to [...]

I’m this real writer who aspires to live in a world where anyone cares.

Thanks for this post. Not only made me laugh, but also gave this “aspiring” writing a good kick in the pants.

Thank – you X

Yup, yup, yup and yup. And especially all praise to point 4.

Excellent, and thank you for the advice. I am at the beginning of a long journey in what looks to be a jalopy, but that just means there’s room for polish right?