Understanding the Reality of Writing as a Job

As a writer, you may often encounter skepticism or even outright dismissiveness about the legitimacy of your profession. People might say, 'Writing is not a real job,' or 'You don’t need to eat lettuce because someone wrote the recipe book,' implying that writing isn’t a significant part of the economy or society. However, the truth is that writing is both a real and indispensable job, valued by those who are literate and appreciated by a global audience.

Addressing Skepticism

If you’re a writer, especially a new one, it’s essential to remember that such comments are often based on ignorance and misunderstanding. It’s perfectly fine to not address these remarks unless you choose to. For instance, you might share your writing only with a spouse, a close friend, or even your children, as these are personal spaces where feelings are more easily understood.

Common Arguments against Writing as a 'Real' Job

Some argue that books wouldn’t exist without writers. Others might say, 'Did you read that somewhere?' or 'Don’t say that with your mouth full because someone had to write the recipe for what you are eating.' These arguments, while at times humorous, are often based on a lack of understanding of the broader impact and importance of writing.

A Thoughtful Approach

A thoughtful response can be your key to handling such situations gracefully:

First Response: Ask, 'What makes you say that?' This shows curiosity and avoids any defensive reaction. When they provide their reasons, you can add:

Second Response: 'That’s interesting. I never thought of it that way.' This validates their perspective and doesn’t dismiss their argument.

More on the Value of Writing

Books, movies, music, menus, and even news are all products of writing. If you can enjoy any of these, you understand the value of writing. Even simple tasks like getting food require some form of writing. Without recipes and menus, the culinary world would be vastly different. The same goes for reading the news, which is a crucial source of information and insight for many people.

Final Thoughts

When someone tells you that writing is not a real job, you may be tempted to argue. However, the best response is often to acknowledge their viewpoint. Ultimately, you have the right to focus on your work. If the IRS thinks writing is a real job, then it is. You might exit the conversation with the intention to get to your work, whether that’s writing, editing, or researching.