My friend, Jonathan Merritt, is a guru in the publishing world. He’s an award-winning faith and culture writer who serves as senior columnist for Religion News Service. He has published more than 2,000 articles in outlets such as USA Today, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, Christianity Today, and CNN.com. Blamo!
If that’s not enough, Jonathan has also published three books, including his most recent, Jesus is Better Than You Imagined, which Publishers Weekly described as full of “winsome writing and absorbing tales.” He has also worked as a collaborator, writing coach, and ghostwriter on dozens of other titles.
I asked Jonathan what makes the difference between people who dream about writing and those who become writers.
You can’t afford not to read his answer:
Over the last few years, I've had many aspiring writers come to me for advice. I spot them fast. They tap their foot or bob back and forth from nervousness, and wear a serious expression.
"I think I’m ready to be a writer, but I don't know where to get started," they say. "Can you tell me what you've done, so I can do it, too?"
I smile, knowing what’s coming next.
"Sure," I answer.
"Are you ready to work hard for almost no money and no recognition? Are you ready to learn how to build a platform and hone your craft? Are you willing to write when few people read your work? Are you willing to put in the time and hours even if it never gives you a glimpse of fame? Are willing to write even if it never provides a full-time paycheck or retirement plan? If you can’t answer 'yes' to every one of those questions, you aren't ready to be a writer."
The look on their face turns from determination to frustration. Some shoot me a dirty look as they leave.
I've met many people over the years who have a book or an article inside of them, but I meet very few who want to do what it takes to get that book or article out of them and on paper. Many people want to be writers, but most don't want to do the hard work of preparation required to make it happen. (Think "rich, young ruler.")
Most people think that being a writer is a life filled with champagne, five-star hotel rooms, packed-out arenas and huge royalty checks.
Unfortunately, that vision of the writing life isn't in the literary ballpark.
Writing is gut-wrenching.
A life that sometimes yields products no one reads.
A life of underpayment.
A life marred by rejection.
A life shaped by determination and hard work
If you are ready to embrace all the frustrations of the writing life, let me let you in on a little secret:
Writing is also one of the most fulfilling activities you’ll ever experience.
Writing is rich and rewarding.
The craft of writing provides the opportunity to grow and live a better life.
Writing has brought me into relationship with some of the most amazing and godly people I know. I’m living a better story because I write.
Writing blends burden and blessing into a beautiful life.
IF I could do anything in the world, I’d want to be a writer.
Despite the frustrations, writing is my dream job, my most fulfilling and life-giving work.
I share Jonathan’s passion for shaping ideas, turns of phrase, and crafting stories that lead to transformation.
Perhaps you’ve tasted that fulfillment, the richness of life that comes with placing words on a page. Maybe you’ve been given a story that you know needs to be shared with others. Or you’ve published a book or two and you’re wondering what’s next?
Over the last year, Jonathan and I have developed an exclusive, boutique event called Writers Boot Camp. Over the course of three days, we provide intensive training to help you:
- Identify your audience
- Develop a pitch-perfect voice
- Hone your writing skills
- Interact with an agent and publisher
- Increase your effectiveness on social media
- Become a power blogger
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What makes Writers Boot Camp different from other writing conferences?
Over the years, Jonathan and Margaret have invested more than 1,000 hours formulating a unique audience-centric, content-driven approach to writing that they believe is superior to what other writing coaches offer.
- No green room. We make ourselves accessible to participants throughout the event.
- Limited participants. We limit attendance to double digits—including our team. The smaller size allows more interaction and personal coaching.
- Pre-event assignments. We want you to come prepared to take your writing and social media to the next level.
- Early morning homework review. During the 8-9 am coffee hour, our entire team makes themselves to review your boot camp assignments and provide feedback on your projects, proposals, and goals.
- Intentional networking opportunities. We set aside times to interact and share your stories and writing with others boot camp cadets. You’ll be amazed at who registers for this event.
The first two Writers Boot Camps sold out in 48-hours. This won't be any different.
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