Is Being Read by Millions Enough to Make You a Professional Writer?

There seems to be a common misconception that if your writing is read by millions of people online, you are automatically considered a professional writer. However, is this truly the case? Let's delve into what it means to be a professional writer and whether mere readership can qualify you.

What Defines a Professional Writer?

A common belief is that a professional writer must make a living from their writing. Many argue that successful writers like Jane Austen and the likes didn't necessarily live off their writing, yet their works are revered and still widely read today. Similarly, few poets can solely sustain themselves through poetry.

So, does answering questions on platforms like Quora or maintaining an active blog count as professional writing? Not necessarily. Writing novels, non-fiction books, short stories, essays, and poetry can be seen as forms of professional writing. However, self-publishing subpar content on platforms like Amazon does not automatically make someone a writer, even if it sells well. Writing must be of a quality that stands the test of time.

Key Differentiators: Professional vs. Amateur

A professional writer writes in exchange for money. This doesn't mean they must make a 'living wage,' as writer's pay for freelancers is often quite low in comparison to that of other professions. Instead, the crucial factor is that the writer receives payment for their work.

Amateur writers, on the other hand, write for free. The root of the word "amateur" is "amatore," which means someone who does something for love rather than money. This distinction is crucial in understanding whether a writer is professional or not.

Commitment to the Craft

While readership can be a testament to the quality and attractiveness of a writer's work, it does not determine professionalism. Many writers have built significant online readerships but remain unpaid. Does sheer volume of readership inherently make a writer professional? Not without the context of being paid for their work.

A study on professional artists included a time commitment of ten hours a week as a criterion. While this may seem like a low bar, the commitment to one's craft, day in and day out, month after month, could be a more appropriate definition for a professional writer. This dedication extends to the ongoing effort required to maintain and improve one's writing skills.

Conclusion

In summary, while being read by millions online can certainly indicate the quality and appeal of a writer's work, it does not automatically make them a professional writer. Professionalism in writing requires not only a significant online presence but also a tangible income generated from that writing. True dedication to the craft, regardless of the number of readers, is what truly distinguishes a professional writer from an amateur.