by Why Curiosity Beats Credentials
For years, my pharmacy degree felt like a golden ticket. It opened doors in health writing. But it also trapped me—like invisible handcuffs.
I stuck to healthcare topics. Why? I had the “credentials.” Everyone said it made sense. Little did I know, that mindset limited my potential.
The Myth: “You Need a Degree to Write About It”
Venturing into SaaS, fitness, or travel? Editors pushed back: “You don’t have a degree in that.”
I internalized it. No formal education = no credibility. No right to write. That locked me in one niche.
Sound familiar? This “degree myth” holds back countless writers from diversifying.
How Curiosity Unlocked New Niches for Me
My passions outgrew my degree. Late nights devouring SaaS growth models. Bingeing travel docs. Analyzing fitness trends.
Curiosity drowned out doubt. I created samples: studied experts, nailed their tone, asked smart questions.
No faking it—just commitment. I networked, practiced, showed up. Doors opened—not from paper, but persistence.
What Builds Real Writing Credibility (Not a Degree)
Forget credentials. Write like an expert with these:
- Curiosity: Dive deep into any topic.
- Research: Know it better than most.
- Discipline: Practice daily, refine your voice.
- Value: Deliver clarity and insights readers crave.
Formal education helps, but it’s optional. Authority comes from depth.
| Credential Myth | Curiosity Reality |
|---|---|
| “Degree required” | Research + practice |
| Locked niches | Endless opportunities |
| Permission needed | Pull up a chair |
Feeling “Not Qualified”? Here’s Your Action Plan
Passionate about a new field? Don’t wait for permission.
- Explore: Read books, blogs, reports.
- Write samples: Mimic expert style.
- Network: Join communities, pitch boldly.
- Iterate: Get feedback, improve.
Write like an expert without a degree—start today. Persistence trumps paper every time.
What’s one niche you’re curious about? Share in the comments!
