Developing Your True Voice In A Cut and Paste World
Finding your passion begins with honesty. It involves being true to self first and foremost and moving outward to include others. Writers are most effective when fueled by passion for something they believe in – deeply. Moreover, passion is something that can’t be manufactured on demand like instant oatmeal. One of the disturbing trends taking place in the literary world is taking credit for someone else’s words, with no fear of reprisal. This is not only disingenuous, but more importantly, it sends a horrible message to aspiring writers and all members of society. How do you establish an authentic voice in today’s world of cheats, shortcuts, and outright theft? Some may find the answer surprising, yet simple. You speak from the heart, which in turn creates the passion and sincerity alluded to earlier.
In reviewing the appeal of seeking to gain a literary following through the use of dishonorable means, it is apparent the negatives are far greater than any perceived advantages. First, it is extremely difficult to defend that which you do not truly believe. Establishing a reputation as an expert on a topic comes as a result of persistent effort and producing quality work. Being recognized as an authority leads to speaking opportunities and invitations to share your insights with an eager audience. Simply cutting and pasting material from someone else’s website eliminates the valuable learning curve involved on the pathway to discovery. Imagined being invited to a conference to speak on a topic that you know little about, because time was never spent actually learning and developing expertise in that area.
Building your brand as an accomplished writer takes time. When choosing to take short-cuts, not only is reputation compromised, but the very platform you’re attempting to build is undermined. Having a solid foundation allows writers to expand their product line to include videos, CD’s/DVD’s, media appearances, and the aforementioned speaking engagements. Oddly enough, those seeking instant success seldom achieve this level of notoriety. There are few writers who achieve instant success, although there are exceptions, subsequently maintaining an impeccable reputation is not only prudent – it’s essential for building networking opportunities and making industry contacts. Before financial success occurs, writers engage in their craft because they love writing. They are enthusiastic in sharing insights gained through experience or educational pursuits. The goal, at least during the initial years, is to establish themselves as a knowledgeable resource in their field of choice. From a rational standpoint, it is counterproductive to use the ideas of others as the goal is to build a brand.
The great irony in the literary world is persistence is the key to long term success. Most prolific writers go unnoticed and work in relative obscurity for years before a big break comes their way. When recognition comes they are prepared as a result of toiling in anticipation of reaching the pinnacle of success. Did they «cut and paste» their way to the top? Absolutely not; rather the journey was paved with determination and a relentless attitude. Household names are earned in this industry and the greatest would have it no other way. Work diligently at becoming a great writer and extraordinary things will happen in due season.