There’s a distinct difference between those who express themselves best through speaking and those who thrive in writing.
The difference boils down to traits. People who excel in writing over speaking are often more introspective, using the written word as a canvas to carefully paint their thoughts.
Speaking is spontaneous, while writing allows for reflection and revision. It’s no surprise then, that certain unique traits tend to emerge among those who prefer the pen to the spoken word.
Let’s explore 9 unique traits often found in people who express themselves better through writing. If you’re one of them, these phrases might feel like they’ve been ripped right from your life’s script.
1) They’re reflective thinkers
Writing is a process that requires deep thought and introspection.
Those who prefer to express themselves through writing are typically reflective thinkers. They need time to process their thoughts, to let ideas marinate before they’re ready to serve them up.
Speaking, on the other hand, is often immediate and spontaneous. It doesn’t lend itself as well to deep thought in quite the same way.
Reflective thinkers flourish when they have the space and time to delve into their thoughts, to explore different angles, and to carefully craft their words.
This isn’t to say they can’t think on their feet, but they shine brightest when given the opportunity to reflect and refine.
This tendency towards reflection is often a hallmark of those who express themselves better in writing than speaking. It’s a characteristic that sets them apart and allows them to communicate complex ideas effectively in written form.
2) They’re detail oriented
People who are better at expressing themselves through writing often have an eye for details. This might not be immediately apparent, but let me share a personal example.
In conversations, I often find myself stumbling over words, leaving out essential information or overloading with too many details. Getting the balance right in real-time speaking can be a challenge.
But when I write, it’s a different story. I can take the time to mull over each word, each sentence, ensuring that every detail is just right. This meticulous nature in writing allows me to paint a vivid and comprehensive picture, something I struggle with in impromptu conversations.
It’s not just about capturing the minutiae; it’s about knowing which details add depth and richness to the narrative. Being detail-oriented doesn’t mean drowning in the specifics; it means knowing how to use them effectively. This trait is what often allows people like me to express ourselves better through writing than speaking.
3) They’re comfortable with solitude
Writing, by its very nature, is often a solitary act. It requires quiet, uninterrupted time to delve into thoughts and ideas, to explore different perspectives, and to articulate them on paper.
Unlike speaking, which is inherently social, writing is often done in solitude. This doesn’t mean that writers are necessarily introverted, but they tend to be comfortable spending time alone.
In fact, many famous writers have touted the benefits of solitude. For instance, Ernest Hemingway was known for his disciplined writing routine that involved several hours of solitary writing each morning.
For those who express themselves better through writing than speaking, solitude isn’t a burden; it’s a necessary part of their process. It gives them the space they need to think deeply, to wrestle with their thoughts and ideas, and to create something meaningful from them.
4) They have a strong sense of empathy
The ability to express oneself better through writing often correlates with a strong sense of empathy. Writing requires an understanding of the reader’s perspective, anticipating their questions and addressing their concerns.
Writers need to step into the shoes of their readers, to see the world from their viewpoint. They must consider not only what they want to say, but how it will be received.
Empathy allows writers to connect with their readers on a deeper level. It helps them craft messages that resonate, that stir emotions, and that make an impact.
People who are better at expressing themselves through writing often have this knack for empathy. They can sense what others might be thinking or feeling, and they use this insight to shape their written communication. This trait enables them to create written content that is not only informative but also engaging and relatable.
5) They appreciate the power of revision
Writing isn’t a one-shot process. It’s an art that’s crafted over multiple drafts, each one refining and clarifying the message. And people who express themselves better through writing understand this.
They value the power of revision. They know that the first draft is just a starting point, a rough sketch that needs refining. They’re not afraid to revisit their work, to tweak sentences, to rephrase ideas, or to delete sections that don’t serve the narrative.
Revision isn’t just about fixing errors; it’s about honing the message, improving clarity, and enhancing impact. And those who prefer writing over speaking appreciate this.
They know that unlike spoken words, which once uttered cannot be taken back or revised, written words offer the chance for refinement. This appreciation for revision is a trait that often sets them apart and enables them to communicate their thoughts effectively through writing.
6) They find solace in written words
For those who express themselves better through writing than speaking, the act of writing can often be a source of solace and comfort. There’s something therapeutic about pouring your thoughts onto a blank page, about wrestling with words until they align to capture your feelings just right.
The written word offers a safe space, a non-judgmental platform where one can freely express their deepest thoughts, fears, hopes, and dreams. It’s like a personal sanctuary where one can truly be themselves without fear of immediate criticism or judgment.
When emotions threaten to overwhelm, they turn to writing. When ideas swirl incessantly in their mind, they turn to writing. When they need to make sense of the world around them, they turn to writing.
For them, writing isn’t just a communication tool; it’s a lifeline, a balm that soothes the soul. This deep emotional connection with writing is a unique trait often found in those who express themselves better through writing than speaking.
7) They’re patient
Writing isn’t something that can be rushed. It takes time to craft a piece that effectively communicates your thoughts and ideas. And those who express themselves better through writing understand this.
They know that good writing requires patience, the willingness to sit with their thoughts, to wrestle with words, to revise and refine until the message is just right.
I’ve spent countless nights staring at a blank page, waiting for the right words to flow. There have been moments of frustration, of feeling stuck, of doubting my ability. But I’ve learned that patience is key. That sometimes, you need to step away, let your thoughts simmer, and come back with a fresh perspective.
This inherent patience, this ability to endure the challenges that come with crafting written content, is a defining trait of those who express themselves better through writing than speaking. They understand that writing is a journey, one that requires patience and persistence.
8) They’re constant learners
The world of words is vast and ever-evolving. New words, phrases, and styles of writing continually emerge. To express themselves effectively through writing, individuals must be open to learning and adapting.
Those who prefer writing to speaking are often constant learners. They’re not just interested in mastering their language, but in exploring other languages, styles, and genres of writing. They read widely, embracing diverse perspectives and narratives to enhance their own writing.
This drive for continual learning helps them improve their skills, broaden their understanding, and stay current with changes in language usage and trends.
Being a constant learner is more than a trait; it’s a lifestyle choice that many who express themselves better through writing than speaking adopt. It’s their curiosity and willingness to learn that fuels their written expression and sets them apart.
9) They’re genuine
At the heart of effective writing lies authenticity. Those who express themselves better through writing understand this. They strive to be genuine in their communication, bringing their true selves into their work.
They don’t hide behind jargon or pretentious language. Instead, they use words to express their thoughts, ideas, and feelings honestly and sincerely. They believe in the power of authenticity and its ability to connect with readers on a deep, emotional level.
Being genuine isn’t a strategy; it’s a commitment to honesty and transparency. It’s about being real, being human, and being true to oneself. This commitment to authenticity is a defining trait of those who express themselves better through writing than speaking.
