Does it happen when you finish your first story?
How about when you get your first rejection?
Does it happen when you get your first publishing credit?
How about the first time you're paid for your work?
While all of those things are important milestones for any writer, I think it happens much earlier than that. I would argue it happens the first time you stare down the blank sheet of paper and win.
That's right.
The first time you put words to paper is when you become a writer. Whether you are journaling, writing a short story, a novel or a novella, or writing ad copy for a product, you are a writer, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
For all of those writers out there who don't believe you're a writer without publishing credits, just stop. Writers should stick together. We are a community. Writers should support one another, not tear each other down.
Writing anything at all is brave. Putting down thoughts, ideas, stories, or characters takes a lot. You are putting yourself out there. Because, let's be honest, there is a lot of ourselves in every word we write.
Publishing is merely a potential outcome of writing. It doesn't make you a writer any more than a rejection does.
Ignore the haters and keep the pen to paper, fingers to keyboards, and the idea factory stoked with plenty of flames.
Oh, and don't forget...
Write ON
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