Today is the day.
Whether you’re bracing yourself against icy winds or basking in the early sunshine of spring, today is the perfect time to stand back and take a big-picture perspective on your writing. Looking for a writing prompt to open your vision? Try asking yourself this:
Why do I write?
Write down your answers. Put the pages away and review them in a few days. See if you can pull out a theme or a clear reason from your thoughts. That is your purpose. (Your “why.”)
Your purpose is what gives your writing practice — and your writing success — ballast. “Purpose” is the foundation of writing consistently and productively. Purpose is also the basis of ENJOYING your writing, prioritizing writing and valuing all the good that writing does for your life, your pocketbook and your talent.
Below, I’ve shared a few more thoughts on the subject of “Why Write?” from an article I first published in 2015. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Hit “Reply” to this email and tell me what resonates with you and what you discover about your writing.
I’m excited to see you achieve your most daring writing goals!
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Why Do We Write?
Here’s what Swiss philosopher, Henri F. Amiel, has to say on the subject:
“It is by teaching that we teach ourselves, by relating that we observe, by affirming that we examine, by showing that we look, by writing that we think, by pumping that we draw water into the well.”
Writing is a way of relating, affirming, showing.
Writing’s teaching sometimes, too.
When we write, the practice, passion and pursuit of our writing pumps clarity — slowly, surely — into the well of our being. And on the very best days, we’re left replenished by deep draughts of vitality and wonder.
If you are a writer, or simply think you might be a writer, honor yourself. Let yourself write.
Please don’t quench the fire in your heart. You deserve to be you in this world.
