Our word “expert” comes to us from the Latin word experiri, which translates to the infinitive verb “to try” or “to attempt.” To be an expert means you are someone who is attempting to do something.

It’s the very act of doing the thing itself that deems a person an expert.

If you want to be an expert on baking, then bake.

If you want to be an expert on 80’s cartoons, then watch 80’s cartoons.

If you want to be an expert on obscure insects, the learn about obscure insects.

The point isn’t about attainment, as if becoming an expert means you’ve reached a level few mortals would dare attempt. Few mortals just wouldn’t do what you’re doing, that’s what makes you an expert.

You will always know more than someone else because you’ve done something they haven’t done. And people pay for access to that tiny bit more of experience you provide.

If you write, then you are an expert at writing. This means you have a level of expertise and experience that those people who do not write will pay for.

As a writer you have two jobs: write and find the person who will pay for your experience writing.

Be an expert.