The Writer's Block

by Alyssa Ast

Let's face it, not everyone is a natural born writer, even though many people try to be-- no offense anyone. It's easy to distinguish the natural writers from the "other" writers because of many little signs that stick out, although, they may not be recognizable to the average Joe. One way, I can always tell the natural writers from the others writers, is by topic ideas and the way content is written. Often, the unnatural writers feed off of the ideas of others without adding their own creative niche to the topic. In short, they simply re-write someone else's content, often including the exact same key points, tone, etc. When I see this, I want to jump through the computer screen and scream, "You're not a writer! You're a re-writer!"

Writer vs. Re-writer
Yes, I know, re-writing content for clients is part of the job description, but that shouldn't be the case with everything you write. Yes, I understand there are times we struggle with topic ideas and browse the work of others to try to piece together an idea. But, even then, your content should have some unique points, some creative points that aren't found in the sources you viewed. If you lack creativity, writing isn't the job for you.

When I see some one's work that's clearly someone else's work that has just been rewritten, my respect for that writer decreases, as well as their credibility. Quite honestly, I consider it to be a loathsome practice. I've had numerous pieces of my content rewritten, and I know what it feels like to have someone, basically, steal your ideas...your words. Some people don't even bother to change phrases or formatting from the work they have re-written. It's a very dishonest method of writing, in my opinion.

So, if you're struggling to find topic ideas, don't steal them from someone else, and if you do, be sure you're able to add a unique touch to it to make it yours, not someone elses. You discredit the writer who put in the effort to make that unique piece of content by stealing their ideas, and in the end, you're not a writer, you're a re-writer.

I know I'm not alone with this one. I know there are many writers who have been a victim of a "copy cat." How do you deal with copy cats stealing your ideas?

Happy Writing!

You're Not a Writer...You're a Re-Writer