Backseat Writer!

       
           Of course we've all heard of " Backseat Drivers".  Take a look at the picture below.  If you drive a car, maybe you already know what it means to have a backseat driver in your car.  He knows all about driving, and how you should do it.  He tells you where to turn, when to speed up, which lane you should be driving in, to stop talking and keep your eyes on the road.  You want to tell them to shut up and let you drive.  You know what you're doing, and don't need them to tell you.  It makes you nervous, and unable to think clearly with all their distractions.  Well, you will meet them again in writing.  The people who have never written one line of anything, but know exactly how it should be done.  They can tell you how to write that story, or book, even what words to say.   Every-time you see them and are encouraged with your talents, they find someway to burst your bubble of happiness, and you walk away feel hurt, doubting yourself, and your talent as a writer.  What to do?  You must learn how to separate the good from the bad.  With people like these you must separate yourself.  Don't share what you have been working on since you already know what coming next out of their mouths, words of discouragement.  Just smile, and if asked about your writing, say "All is well."  You must learn the fake, from the real.  By this I mean, find others who encourage you.  Those who lift you up, not tear you down.  Those who give honest critique of your work but leave positive vibes.
"Backseat Writers" are out there, you just have to know how to avoid them!