Why It’s Okay to Be a ‘Bad’ Writer When You’re Just Starting Out

Picture this: A toddler taking their first wobbly steps, stumbling repeatedly but determined to keep going. Nobody calls them a "bad walker." Instead, we cheer them on, knowing they’ll master it over time. Writing is no different. Yet, when we start, we’re often quick to label ourselves as “bad writers” if our words don’t flow like Hemingway’s or our metaphors don’t sparkle like Shakespeare’s.

Here’s the truth:

It’s okay to be a ‘bad’ writer when you’re just starting out. In fact, it’s necessary.

1. Every Great Writer Was Once “Bad”

Stephen King’s first novel, Carrie, was rejected 30 times before it was published. J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter manuscript was turned down by 12 publishers. These legendary authors didn’t start as masters—they stumbled, revised, and learned their way to success.

Takeaway:

Great writing comes from practice, persistence, and patience. The only bad writer is the one who stops writing.

2. Perfection Is the Enemy of Progress

Striving for perfection often paralyzes beginners. You second-guess every word, every sentence, and end up writing nothing at all.