Breaking Boundaries: Pursuing Your Dream of Writing Regardless of Your Career Path

Many young people have dreams that they are terrified to chase, especially when it comes to writing books. They may be told by society or themselves that their chosen career path is an obstacle to achieving their dreams. However, as we will explore in this article, the opposite is often true. Noted authors have shown that a career in an entirely unrelated field can be a launchpad for a fulfilling writing career, as long as you are committed to writing and find a way to make time for it.

The Myths and Realities of Writing

It is important to dispel the myths that studying something unrelated to writing is detrimental to your dream of being a writer. Particularly, the misconception that 'you need to study creative writing to be an author' is a common one. The truth is, studying any subject or profession can bring valuable skills and perspectives to your writing. Let us delve into the experiences of some well-known authors who started their writing journey through unconventional career paths.

Real-Life Examples from Prominent Writers

Charles Dickens, the famous Victorian-era novelist, began his career as a court reporter before transitioning to a newspaper reporter. His keen observation skills and interest in human nature informed his famous novels, such as Great Expectations and Dombey and Son.

T.S. Eliot, a poet and essayist, worked as a bank teller at Lloyds Bank, 9:30 to 16:00, providing a steady income. However, it was during these hours that he found time to write and eventually published his masterpiece The Waste Land.

Anton Chekhov, a playwright and short story writer, worked as a doctor for nearly a third of his life. He continued to practice medicine while gaining fame and financial stability from his literary works, such as Three Sisters and Rothschild's Violin.

Herman Melville, best known for his novel Moby Dick, worked as a customs inspector on the New York City waterfront. Despite never achieving the standing he holds today during his lifetime, he continued to write, eventually publishing over 20 works.

Some writers found themselves in even more non-literary jobs. Franz Kafka, a novelist and short story writer, worked as an insurance clerk, where he honed his ability to write concise, precise language. Harper Lee, the author of To Kill a Mockingbird, spent much of her early career as a ticket inspector for Eastern Airlines, a job that gave her a broad range of human experiences to draw from in her writing.

Agatha Christie, a renowned mystery novelist, initially worked as a pharmacist's assistant. This job not only gave her a steady income, but it also provided her with a wealth of knowledge about drugs and poisons, which she used extensively in her novels.

Time Management and Writing

Of course, it is true that many successful authors have done their own writing on the side, often juggling other jobs or careers. This leads to the second key point: having time to write is not a luxury, but a necessity. Many writers can only find time to write during their commute, breaks, or by making use of any available downtime.

Instead of feeling guilty or trapped by your current career, try to find pockets of time during the day to write. Write during your lunch break, write while commuting, or capture ideas on your phone during a meeting. It is important to approach writing as a daily habit that can be nurtured and developed, even in a busy schedule.

Another crucial aspect of time management is not to make excuses for not writing. Often, people feel that they don't have the time to pursue their dreams. However, when you decide to write, you will find the time. Focus on your goals and find a way to make them a part of your daily routine, no matter how busy your schedule may be.

Key Takeaways

By examining the lives of these authors and the advice given here, it is clear that pursuing your dream of writing does not have to be hindered by your professional career. Whether you choose a career in law, medicine, or any other field, your passion for writing can thrive alongside it, as long as you are committed and willing to make time for it.

So, if you are a young person who has always dreamed of writing books, do not let financial constraints or societal expectations limit your dreams. Instead, embrace the journey and find ways to integrate your writing into your daily life. With determination and a bit of creative time management, your dream can come true.