While it is an underrated fact that English majors are really important to our society and bring so many new skills to the table, we also tend to disregard how essential writers are. Sure, we read their books, and for many of us that is a familiar pastime, but there is so much more that we can learn from writers.
1. Perspective
Unless they're writing the next Tolkien or Rowling fantasy series, odds are they are using the real world as their inspiration to create a story. We could use that in our lives too. We all have a tendency to view our daily lives as utterly monotonous and unimportant, but if we learned to follow the lead of many important writers, we would see that even our routines are beautiful.
2. Imagination
This may seem like a given, but it is still something we struggle with today as a society. There are so many books and movies about how adults lose their childhood imaginations, and they seem to say that the world would be better off if they could hang onto some of that childhood enthusiasm. I agree. It's not just about creating monsters or imaginary friends, it's finding better ways to problem-solve, communicate and care for each other.
3. Understanding
In my opinion, what makes a truly excellent writer is one that can look through and see someone for who they are on the inside. Most best-sellers are so loved because they explore their characters' motivations for doing what they do. I think this is an important skill to learn. We would have so much less conflict in our society if we could just learn to really understand each other instead of just taking certain confusing actions at face value. Most humans don't have the ability to say exactly what they mean, so by being understanding, we can help them along.
4. Language
I am super guilty of using the most inexpressive and unimpressive language when I speak. Like most people in their 20s, I say "like" way too much and use the usual "spill the tea" or "OMG no way" more times than I could count. But good writers show us that what you say is just as important as how you say it, and I think we could all take their example and learn to spice up our lives with more colorful, prettier and even quirkier language.
5. Persistence
This may be one of the most important skills that a writer MUST learn in order to be successful. The art of sticking it out and staying committed while trying to crank out hundreds of pages of material (only to have a good chunk of it thrown away in editing) is a true talent. We could all learn that just because something doesn't work out or isn't quite right the first time doesn't mean you give up. It means you try something new, explore a new way of arriving at the same ends or maybe completely change your plan to something much better.
So next time you pick up one of your favorite page-turners, take a second to think about the behind-the-scenes skills that those authors used. You may realize how much you could use them in your own life. And if you are one of those said writers, remember everything that you bring to the table next time someone doubts your art!
Going to the cinema alone is good for your mental health, says science
women in street dancing
Photo by 
man and woman standing in front of louver door
Photo by 
man in black t-shirt holding coca cola bottle
Photo by 
red and white coca cola signage
Photo by 
man holding luggage photo
Photo by 
topless boy in blue denim jeans riding red bicycle during daytime
Photo by 
trust spelled with wooden letter blocks on a table
Photo by 
Everyone is Welcome signage
Photo by 
man with cap and background with red and pink wall l
Photo by 
difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations desk decor
Photo by 
photography of woman pointing her finger near an man
Photo by 
closeup photography of woman smiling
Photo by 
a man doing a trick on a skateboard
Photo by 
two men 
running man on bridge
Photo by 
orange white and black bag
Photo by 
girl sitting on gray rocks
Photo by 
assorted-color painted wall with painting materials
Photo by 
three women sitting on brown wooden bench
Photo by 
Photo by 
Photo by 
Photo by 
Photo by 
people sitting on chair in front of computer
