Can I Be a Writer if I’m Not an Expert?

I remember feeling the first nudge—more like a gentle push from God, really—to start a blog and share my writing. Let me tell you, my first instinct was to bolt. Self-doubt? Oh, I planted a whole garden of it. "I don't have fancy letters after my name," I thought. "Why would anyone even care what I have to say?" “Can I be a writer?”

Here's what I've realized, and I want to share it with you, especially if you've ever felt a similar calling but talked yourself out of it because you thought you weren't "enough." You don't need to be an expert to write; you just need to be a few steps ahead of the audience you're writing to encourage. Yeah, it sounds too simple, but hear me out.

3 Things to Remember When You Wonder ‘Can I Be a Writer?’

1. Your Story Is Your Superpower

First, let's get something straight: Your experiences, those highs and lows, the lessons learned the hard way—are your superpower. No one else has walked your path, and that's what makes your voice unique. Think about it like sharing stories with a friend. You don't need a Ph.D. to tell your friend how you learned something the hard way, right? Your journey, your insights, they're gold. Write them down.

2. Lean Into That Divine Nudge

Okay, so you're not an expert. Welcome to the club! But you know what? Sometimes, it's not about having all the answers but about being open to the guidance that's nudging you forward. When you sit down to write, think of it as co-creating with God. It’s not just you at the keyboard. It's about being a conduit for messages or wisdom someone out there needs to hear. So, lean in and let the words flow.

3. Be The Friend You Needed

Remember when you were going through a tough time, and all you needed was that one friend who just got it? Be that friend through your writing. Share the real stuff—the mess-ups, the doubts, and moments of clarity and joy. Your honesty will resonate more than you know, helping others feel less alone in their struggles.

The Ripple Effect of Sharing Your Story

Here's the cool part: If you wonder, ‘Can I be a writer?’ as I did, remember how sharing your story creates ripples. You know how one heart-to-heart conversation can change your whole day? Your words can do that for someone else. It's about building those bridges of understanding and empathy, showing others that it's okay to be a work in progress, and that, my friend, is powerful.

By opening up about your journey, including the not-so-glamorous parts, you allow others to embrace their own struggles and growth. It's like saying, "Hey, I've been there too, and here's what helped me." Sometimes, that's all it takes to spark hope or inspiration in someone else.

You don't need to be an expert to write; you just need to be a few steps ahead of the audience you're writing to encourage. I can't stress this enough. If I've learned anything, it's that our shared human experiences are what connect us. Your voice and story can be the lifeline someone clings to in their moment of need.

Starting Your Writing Journey

Starting your writing journey without the "expert" tag can feel like stepping out onto a stage without a script. But here's the secret: The script is already there, written in the pages of your life. All you need to do is share it, one word, one story at a time.

Let's toss out the idea that only experts have something valuable to say. We're all experts in our own lives, and that's where the real magic of connection and encouragement lies. So, grab your metaphorical pen (or an actual pen if that's your style), and let's start this journey together.

Remember, it's not about reaching the masses or being the next viral sensation. It's about touching one heart, one soul at a time, with your words. And who knows? That one person might just be waiting for the very story you have to tell.

So, my friend, as we think about the paths ahead, I hope you feel a little lighter, a bit more inspired, and ready to embrace the call to write—no "expert" badge needed. After all, the world needs more honest, heartfelt stories, and yours is a great place to start.