Almost everyone thinks
they can be a writer.
They can write a 10 word email.
They must be able to write
a 60,000 word fictional story
that enthralls readers,
market that story,
write the next story,
build a brand,
etc. etc.
And, of course,
be a success at it.
I no longer introduce myself
as a writer
at non-writing events
for this reason.
My readers value me.
I don’t need to prove myself
to strangers.
“If you’re doing
one of these non-dentist jobs,
the best approach is
to be extraordinarily good at it.
So much better
than an amateur
that there’s really
no room for discussion.
You don’t have to justify yourself.
Your work justifies you.”
The brutal truth is..
you’re not going
to earn respect
from the average person
when the average person
thinks they can do
what you do.
And you’ll never convince
the average person
they can’t do it.
Average people
tend to believe
they’re extraordinary
at all things.
Focus on earning the respect
of your customers
and business partners.