Not Much of a Reader

When I started writing professionally, I sought out advice from other writers. So naturally, I turned to the internet.

How to be a better writer.

This basic search gave me the same answer over and over again. It usually included two parts.

1. Write every single day.

2. Read every single day.

My basic answer to this advice was no. Absolutely not.

And then I was afraid.

Can I be a great writer if I truly do not read much?

I have learned that it is possible. You see, my writing is not about the ability to tell stories, but about the ability to express feelings. To put you in the shoes of the character. To make you feel as though you are the subject of my book, and you are walking in their shoes.

My friends have joked with me and sent me many BuzzFeed quizzes titled something along the lines of "How many classic novels have you lied about reading?"

It is an ongoing joke that I have probably lied to you about reading a book. God knows that I did it in school. Book report days would come and I would pick a book off the shelf in the classroom five minutes before I had to present my report to the class.

I would be the first to volunteer.

I would read the back cover and tell you everything that you needed to know. I would answer every question. I was confident in my ability to make someone believe me.

Yikes, right?

I thought there was something wrong with me in not using reading as one of my hobbies. I love to write. I could write all day.

Then, one of my friends told me something that made it seem so simple.

You are a creator, not a consumer.

I am sorry, what? That's it! Where have you been?

I loved to sing, perform, act, write, draw, and create. I did not like to go to plays, go to shows, watch musicals, read, go to museums, or consume.

My research for my books and content comes from methods beyond consuming other people's work (but that will be another post for another day). In fact, I believe that I have been so opposed to reading because I fear trying to mimic or repeat someone's style.

So, if you want to write, but have been told that you have to enjoy reading in order to be great, do not be discouraged. Your methods are your own. Your work is your own. And if it brings you joy, keep it up.