I've been thinking about this question, as I just finished up a nifty little book called Strengths Finder 2.0, by New York Times Bestselling author Tom Rath. Yeah, it's one of those self-help books that strives to help readers discover their best selves.
In the book, Rath shares that he believes we all spend *way* too much time focusing on our weaknesses -- and straining to make them into strengths -- instead of honing our strengths to perfection. He also asserts that the societal mantra, "You can be anything, if you just try hard enough," is pure bunk.
It's better, says Rath, to admit the truth. That, as he puts it, "You cannot be anything you want to be -- but you can be a lot more of who you already are."
Though I hate the fact that he's right, Rath is...well...right. Because I know for a fact that I will NEVER be a math whiz, no matter how long and hard I try to get mathematical equations to make sense. And I will NEVER be a stunt pilot, no matter how much I *yearn* for the thrill it suggests, because, well, I'm a chicken s*** with a rabid fear of heights. Sigh.
So that gets me back to the question: "Can anyone be an author?"
Sadly, the answer is no. Some of us lack talent. Some of us lack self-confidence. But most of us simply lack the focus and discipline it takes to create interesting characters and riveting plot lines. Or to do the research needed for a non-fiction book.
So, if you're always telling people that you hope to become a published author, figure out if there's a chance in hades that you'll ever get there. If you lack talent, pick another outlet for your creativity. One that gels with talents you do have.
If, however, your problem is holding yourself accountable to deadlines and word counts, then you simply must plunk your butt in the chair and get to work. Commit yourself fully -- no more excuses! -- to completing a story outline or first draft within a specific time period.
Because there's nothing more saddening than to see talent go untapped.
In his book, Rath shares the story of history buff who, upon reaching the Pearly Gates, asks Saint Peter, "Who was the greatest general of all time?" Saint Peter points to another gentleman. "You must be mistaken," says the man. "I knew that man on earth, and he was just a common laborer." Saint Peter replies, "He would have been the greatest general of all time, if he had been a general."
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