The Journey to Becoming a Professional Screenwriter

Many aspiring screenwriters often ponder at what point they can truly claim to be a professional screenwriter. It's a common question that arises as they progress through their creative journey. In reality, the term 'professional screenwriter' is not simply about achieving monetary success through your script. It's a mark of dedication, passion, and continuous improvement in the craft.

Defining a Professional Screenwriter

Technically, you are not a professional screenwriter until you start making a consistent income from your scripts. This means that you must consistently produce work that is recognized and compensated by the industry. However, this doesn't mean that you should wait to declare yourself a screenwriter until you reach this milestone. The path to becoming a professional screenwriter is filled with various stages and experiences that contribute to your growth and development as a storyteller.

The Pride and Pioneering of Early Success

One of the most important milestones in my screenwriting career was when I finally received my first check from Lionsgate. It was a significant moment of validation, a tangible sign that my hard work and dedication were appreciated by industry professionals. This first payment from a major studio made me able to say 'I am a professional screenwriter.' However, this sensation of accomplishment is often a rare occurrence, and many screenwriters may go years without any form of compensation for their efforts.

Dealing with Rejection and Cynicism

Every aspiring screenwriter knows that the road to success is fraught with rejection. It's a natural part of the journey, and it's important to remember that not getting paid or recognized for your work doesn't diminish your status as a writer. In fact, it's these rejections that shape you and refine your craft. Just because you haven't seen the fruits of your labor in terms of financial gain doesn't mean you're not a professional.

My advice is to focus on honing your skills and creating the best scripts you can. Prepare to experience more rejections than you can imagine. It's a necessary part of the process. But don't let these rejections and the lack of payment get you down. Continue to pursue your passion and remind yourself that you are a screenwriter, regardless of external validation or compensation.

Staying True to Yourself

It's easy to get caught up in the expectations of others and the judgments you receive. Many people will question your endeavors and tell you that you won't succeed. The key to success is to stay true to yourself and your vision. Don't let the opinions of others diminish your belief in your abilities. Be proud of your craft and never lose sight of the fact that you are a professional screenwriter, whether or not you've been paid for it yet.

Remember, every successful screenwriter has gone through countless rejections and faced skepticism. It's this resilience and unwavering commitment to their craft that made them who they are. So, hold on to your dreams, keep writing, and don't let anything stop you from becoming the professional screenwriter you aspire to be.