The Difference Between Good Writers and Bad Writers
Posted: May 17, 2009 Filed under: Writing | Tags: copywriting, writer, writers, Writing 5 CommentsThe difference between good writers and bad writers has nothing to do with skill. It has to do with perseverance.
Good writers take time to craft and recraft a piece. They will spend hours and days, revising, taking all kinds of criticism, and using it all to make the piece better. Good writers can do this, because they believe in what they’re doing. As a writer, they understand that this is more than a profession or a hobby; it’s a life calling.
Bad writers don’t understand this, and that is precisely what makes them bad writers. They presume that their writing has already achieved a certain level of excellence, and so, they are very closed to the concept of editing or rewriting. They can be haughty, prideful, and arrogant.
A good writer is simply a humble writer — someone who’s dedicated to the process of getting better and seeing the writing process, no matter how gruelling, through to completion.
I met a lot of people who are decent writers and think that they have what it takes to be great. I ask them to rewrite something or make a few suggestions on how to improve, and I never again hear from them.
Make a choice to be different. Be amazing by persevering, by going the extra mile that most people are too lazy or preoccupied to go. It’ll make all the difference.
Goins, Writer 
Love it! Pride is at the root of so many pitfalls, including being a bad writer.
JG,
Looking for some advice/help. Taking a writing class and anytime I volunteer my piece or speak up – the more experienced writers seem to rip me apart and not really help. I have already explained this is a new avenue for me. I don’t learn by people yelling at me, all at the same time mind you, or by them being snarky. It really took me down a notch and made me feel like I had made a mistake ever pursuing this as a career in the first place.
I understand what you are saying, but it is tough trying to even kick this off! I am an artist and get much from critiques, but I feel in this classroom, there are some elitists/arrogant folk. Support/advice, etc.?
It would be greatly appreciated!
Sincerely, MEL
Screw ’em…
And maybe read the War of Art.
…And a good understanding of human thoughts and behavior. A plot is just a plot. A setting is just a sething. Without good characters to fill the pages, the story does not come alive….
Good addition Julius. Thanks for the comment.