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Why Great Writers Struggle While Mediocre Ones Thrive

John Edwin
4 min readJan 8, 2025

The world of writing is full of paradoxes. Why do truly talented writers, whose words can ignite minds and stir souls, often find themselves struggling, while mediocre writers seem to thrive effortlessly, churning out content that garners attention and praise? This dilemma is more common than you might think, and understanding its root causes can be both eye-opening and liberating.

In this article, we’ll explore the surprising reasons behind this phenomenon and share actionable insights for great writers who feel stuck.

1. Great Writers Chase Perfection; Mediocre Writers Chase Deadlines

Great writers often strive for perfection, revising and refining every sentence until it shines. While this pursuit of excellence can result in masterpieces, it can also lead to missed opportunities and long delays.

Example:

J.D. Salinger famously spent decades working on manuscripts that he refused to publish because they didn’t meet his impossibly high standards.

Mediocre writers, on the other hand, prioritize output over perfection. They meet deadlines, deliver content consistently, and adapt to market demands. Their work may not be groundbreaking, but it’s visible, and in today’s fast-paced…

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John Edwin
John Edwin

Written by John Edwin

Prolific writer, public health specialist, and tech enthusiast with 12 books on Amazon. I craft stories and insights that inspire action and spark conversations

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