2nd September 2008
Deborah Owen

Writers often think of themselves as not having enough talent to take writing classes, while at the same time, others think they are so good that they don't need writing classes.

While writing classes may not be in order for everyone, they are usually the right answer for those who are considering them.

The very fact that you are reading this article is a good indication that writing classes are probably right for you. To learn more, take this simple self-evaluation test.

1. Do you still enjoy learning?

People who enjoy learning should take every opportunity to learn all they can. It will help you grow as a person, and it will stretch your mind and talents. Learning is fun - but writing will always be work. Perhaps you would like writing lessons with a personal mentor to coach you. Mentors will help you work through problems with time management, help you catch up if you get behind on your lessons, and will answer all the questions that plague you. But the best thing about a mentor is that they will tell you where you're wrong, why you're wrong, and ways to correct the problem.

2. Do you have a desire to write?

If you have the desire to write, writing classes are definitely for you. People who have the desire to write and then shut it off lose both their niche and desire. Don't let this happen to you.

3. Do you have writer's block?

If you have writer's block, there are ways to cure it. Taking a writing course would be of great benefit to you. Learn how to never have writer's block again.

4. Do you have an active imagination?

This is one of the best signs there is. It says, "get writing". If you lay in bed at night and you can feel or hear what you would say if you were at the keyboard, a writing course would be perfect for you. Don't let the muse die. Learn how to keep it coming on a regular basis.

5. Do you want to develop your talents?

Writing need not be a talent from birth. Writing is usually a learned art, and with a modicum of effort on your part, you can likely become a writer. The main thing that writing requires is the will to learn. If writing has always interested you, or is even a new interest, take one writing class to find out if classes are right for you.

6. Would you like to increase your self-esteem?

If you want to take control of your life, if you want to do something really worthwhile, and if you want to challenge yourself by quantum leaps, writing classes are for you. Writers who study and take courses will automatically build self-esteem. Self-esteem will also work in reverse to give you the courage needed to submit your articles and stories.

7. Would you like to do something that will leave your mark on the earth?

Almost everyone would like to do something that will leave a cornerstone behind. Something that others can look at after we're dead and gone. Something that will show who we were, how we felt about life, and what we did with it. Writing is an excellent avenue to leave such a mark. You need not write for a career. You can blog, write memoirs for your family; you can journal, or just write for pure pleasure.

In conclusion - is writing right for everyone? No, it isn't, but it's better to try one class and see if it's right for you than to neglect what may be an unclaimed gift. You won't know if you can write until you try. 

Deborah Owen is the CEO & Founder of the new mentoring school, Creative Writing Institute. As a teacher and author, her burden lies in mentoring students who have a true desire to learn. http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com  - The Writer's Choice