I could never be an editor. While I think I can offer good advice and suggestions, I am not discerning enough.
For one, I usually find the best in books especially. I am not very picky, and it doesn’t take a lot for me to think it’s an okay, if not good book. I also have very specific weak spots that aren’t the best books, but will keep me coming back. I’m not picky enough. I can usually find things that will redeem it in my mind. I’ve rarely, if ever, given a book two stars on Goodreads.
And secondly, I don’t think I could tell someone their stuff isn’t good and they need to take out things. I don’t like confrontation and so that would be difficult enough, but as well I don’t have the personality to do that. It’s not ruthlessness, but I don’t have that quality of brutal honesty usually. I can be if I need to be, but I would say I am one of tact and grace. I like the path of least resistance, in certain cases, and I don’t like confrontation or stress.
I myself am very sensitive to critique and criticism, so to be on the other end of that would be difficult, I think, to do.
So am I sure of what I would do? No, but at this moment, I don’t think I have it in me to be an editor.
But maybe given what I said above, I would be able to edit in a kind and considerate way and do so with support? I guess I could try.
But I even hate editing my own work, but maybe I would be better at editing someone else’s work?
I also don’t want to merge my passion and hobby – reading and my job. I don’t want there to be a chance I wouldn’t enjoy reading.
So maybe I’m just not cut out for it.