So, you've got a new love interest in your life. Congrats! Whether you met face to face bumping into each other getting coffee or on the subway, or you swiped right or winked at each other online, you've found them. They're funny, charming, cute, and smart. You've talked about their family, friends, and hobbies. There's something they seem a little more reserved about, though; their career. Plot twist -- they're a writer.
Before you freak out thinking that's just a fancy code word for unemployment (which you shouldn't, jerk) know that there are so much more to writers than who they are on the surface. They probably weren't eager to talk about their career so quickly because they didn't want to be judged, or maybe they're in the middle of a really interesting piece that they want to keep under-wraps until it's published. The fact of the matter is that there are a lot of realities to accept when it comes to dating a writer, all of which make awesome qualities in a partner.
Everything you do together will inspire a story idea.
Get used to that. The wheels of a writer's mind are always turning, thinking about the next topic they'd like to cover. Whether they're a journalist or a novelist, all writers get inspiration from real life experiences. Be careful what you say and do, because writers have got the memory of an elephant. Something might happen in your relationship that doesn't make its way into a story until decades later, but it's just a sacrifice you've got to be willing to make.
You don't have to worry when we're quiet.
Most people in relationships worry when their partner seems quiet or distant. Well when dating a writer, that's not a matter of concern. If your writer seems lost in thought, they're probably not thinking about someone else, they're likely thinking about what they're going to cover next. Like I said, the wheels of a writer's mind are always turning. If they don't seem present, ask what's on their mind. Chances are they'll jump at the chance to discuss a new idea.
Once we start talking, we can't stop.
Writers can be quiet when they're thinking, but there's nothing more exciting when someone shows interest in your work. If we don't talk about an idea as soon as we've got it, there's a good chance we'll forget it before we can write it down to remember. There's no better rewarding feeling than watching your partner light up with enthusiasm when they're proud of an idea that's popped into their head. Cherish these moments.
We're going to constantly ask your opinion.
Be patient with us. If you're lucky enough that we feel comfortable sharing ideas with you, embrace that closeness. Writers want to remain relevant and involved, so chances are your partner will ask you a few times if you think what they've written is good enough. Sometimes when you're so involved in a piece, it's easy to get lost and think it's wonderful, so it's necessary to get an outside point of view. We do it because we value your opinion! Think of it as a compliment instead of a pain.
We've got wild imaginations.
Think about how lost you get when you're reading a good book or article. It takes a writer to create that world for you. Without the imagination of a writer, books and journals would be too boring to even skim. Dating a writer means you're in for a lot of laughs and crazy ideas and experiences, because it's that same imagination we use as writers that make us such fun people to be around.
We do a lot of reading.
To be a good writer, you've got to be a good reader. There's no better way to learn and grow as a writer than to read. Reading other current events pieces, reading new novels or re-reading our favorite pieces, it just keeps our mind on the move. It can be something as simple as learning new vocabulary or as in depth as learning a new technique or how to cover a certain kind of topic. Don't worry if we don't answer your call or text for a while, we're probably just lost in a really good story. And PS -- reading isimportant for everyone in every kind of job. You should do it more, too.
You've got to deal with the craziest deadlines.
Remember, flexibility is key in any relationship. If your writer has got to deal with the craziest deadline, chances are you'll have to hear about it. Be flexible with dates and time spent together. If you're disappointed your loved one needs to cancel to cover a story their boss just assigned them, know that they are too. If you can, try and go with them while they're on the job. Contrary to popular belief, being a writer can mean late nights and early mornings, so just be ready to go with the flow.
We're some of the most genuine people you'll ever meet.
Writers are kind, sensitive, and imaginative. Whether we're writing news articles, press releases, current events columns, fiction or non-fiction novels, screenplays or even just a birthday card, there is no writer in the world that wants to publish inaccurate or insincere content. Having to be open to the diversity of the writing world makes writers some of the most understanding people you'll ever meet. Writers are the people's people, and we love talking and getting to know people on a personal level, and sharing the stories that deserve to be told. It's that ability that make writers some of the best people to date; eventually, they'll get to know you better than you know yourself.
So yes, dating a writer may have its qualms. There might be arguments about topics or availability in a relationship, but I promise you it will all be worth it. Writers love their jobs, so you don't ever have to worry about hearing about the workplace blues. Dating a writer will bring you experiences you would never expect to occur otherwise.
The life of a writer is exciting, challenging and so rewarding; why wouldn't you want to get to experience that with someone?
