As a writer, I’ve always found it much easier to express myself through written word than spoken conversation.

It’s not that I lack confidence when speaking, but I find I’m able to express my thoughts in a more authentic and precise way when I pen then on paper.

For me, writing offers the unique opportunity to paint pictures with my words and craft compelling narratives.

Speaking with others about this, I’ve found that I’m not alone. There are many people who share this preference for written expression, and interestingly, we share a unique set of distinctive traits. 

If you also feel more at home with a keyboard than a conversation, you’ll surely be interested to learn what these traits are.

Well, read on to discover the eight unique qualities that people who thrive in written communication tend to possess.

1) Introspective nature

Many individuals who express themselves better through writing usually have an introspective nature.

This is because the act of writing requires a certain level of self-reflection.

You have to dig deep into your thoughts, feelings, and experiences and put them into words.

It’s not about merely stating facts or narrating events; it’s about giving them context, meaning, and perspective.

Introspective people thrive in this process.

They are comfortable turning inward, examining their thoughts, and expressing them eloquently on paper.

In comparison, speaking doesn’t always provide the same opportunity for reflection.

It’s more spontaneous and immediate, which might not suit those who prefer to mull things over before sharing their insights.

2) Better time management

It might seem unusual, but having a strong preference for writing over speaking has actually helped me manage my time better.

Let me explain how.

Conversations, especially impromptu ones, can often lead us astray.

They tend to wander, touch on multiple topics, and before you know it, an hour has passed.

While these are great for building relationships and brainstorming, they can eat up a lot of time.

Writing, on the other hand, gives me more control over my time.

When I need to communicate something important, I prefer to write an email or a note.

This allows me to get straight to the point and keep my thoughts organized without any tangents or interruptions.

For instance, during team meetings at work, instead of diving into long discussions, I often suggest that we all share our updates and ideas in writing first.

This helps us stay focused and make the most of our meeting time.

So, in my experience, those who express themselves better in writing often have a knack for managing their time effectively.

3) High level of empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, and it’s a common trait among those who express themselves better through writing.

When we write, we have the chance to mentally step into our reader’s shoes.

We consider their perspective, their knowledge base, and their possible reactions.

This exercise in empathy helps us to craft messages that are more likely to resonate with our audience.

Interestingly, studies have found that reading fiction improves empathy.

So it’s possible that people who express themselves primarily through writing, and who likely spend a lot of time reading as well, have developed higher levels of empathy as a result.

4) Detail-oriented

People who express themselves better in writing are often detail-oriented.

Unlike speaking, where words can be lost or forgotten, writing allows for a thorough exploration of thoughts and ideas.

These individuals enjoy the process of meticulously choosing each word and crafting each sentence to perfectly convey their message.

They pay close attention to their choice of words, grammar, punctuation, and even the rhythm of their sentences.

This attention to detail extends beyond their writing. It’s a characteristic that seeps into other areas of their life, making them:

• Meticulous planners
• Observant listeners
• Thoughtful decision-makers

They value precision and accuracy, whether they’re penning an article or planning a project.

5) Deep thinkers

People who express themselves better in writing often have a depth of thought that’s truly touching.

Writing provides a safe space for deep thinking.

It allows us to explore complex ideas, navigate intricate emotions, and reflect on profound experiences.

It’s a journey of self-discovery and self-expression that many people find therapeutic and rewarding.

These individuals don’t just skim the surface of life; they dive deep, seeking to understand the world and themselves on a profound level. .

Their writing is not just a means of communication, but also an expression of their heart and soul.

It’s their way of making sense of the world, connecting with others, and leaving a lasting impact. 

6) Introverted tendencies

Growing up, I always found comfort in the quiet corners of a library or the solitude of my room with a notebook in hand.

I was never the life of the party, preferring instead to observe from the sidelines.

This is a common trait among those who express themselves better through writing.

They’re often introverts, people who recharge in solitude and find social interactions draining after a while.

Writing allows introverts like me to communicate our thoughts and ideas without the immediate pressure of social interaction.

It gives us time to process, to refine our thoughts, and to articulate them in our own time and space.

It’s not about shying away from social situations, but rather about finding a communication medium that aligns with our energy patterns and comfort zones.

Writing provides that balance, offering a platform where we can express ourselves fully, without feeling overwhelmed or drained.

7) Patience and perseverance

Writing is not a sprint; it’s a marathon.

It requires patience and perseverance, traits that are often found in individuals who express themselves better through writing.

Crafting a compelling piece of writing takes time.

It requires thoughtful consideration of each word, each sentence, each paragraph.

It also requires revising, editing, and refining until the message is just right.

These individuals understand the value of persistence.

They’re not deterred by writer’s block or blank pages.

Instead, they embrace these challenges as part of the process, knowing that each setback is an opportunity for growth.

Their patience and perseverance extend beyond their writing.

These are individuals who are willing to put in the effort, to work hard, and to stay committed, whether they’re working on a novel, pursuing a career goal, or overcoming personal challenges.

8) Creativity and imagination

At the heart of every writer is a vibrant imagination.

In a 2014 study, researchers compared the brain scans between “expert” writers and novice writers.

They found that the more experienced writers scored higher on creative indices.

Considering these findings, people who express themselves better through writing often have a wellspring of creativity that fuels their words.

They see the world through a unique lens, envisioning stories and ideas that others might overlook.

They can transform a simple observation into a beautiful narrative or an abstract concept into a palpable reality.

Their creativity is not limited to their writing.

It permeates their daily life, influencing:

• How they solve problems
• How they perceive the world
• How they interact with others

This ability to think creatively and imagine vividly is a gift.

It allows them to breathe life into words, creating connections and sparking emotions in their readers.

Final reflections

If you’ve found that writing is your preferred way of expressing yourself, you’re not alone—and you’re in good company.

This unique communication preference comes with its own set of unique qualities.

Embracing these strengths can help you navigate interactions with greater clarity and impact.

So, continue to harness the power of your writing, and let it be a bridge to deeper understanding and more meaningful connections.