I think an apology, or at least an explanation is in order here.
Two weeks ago, I wrote a blog giving you advice on how to write through to the end—tldr: Using story structure and character development (goal, motivation, and conflict) you can be sure to not lose that important momentum you started with when you first sat down to write a book. Then last week I told you all about my financial woes and the fact that writers aren’t making any money and have to do other work to supplement their income. So… what’s the point of knowing how to write when it’s not going to earn any money?
Writing is a lot of work! It’s hard and it’s time-consuming. It takes a hell of a lot of dedication and determination. Why do it if it’s just going to be difficult and not earn anything?
->Because we have stories to tell.
->Because we have voices in our heads clamoring to get out.
->Because we want to send a message to the world.
->Because we have to.
Writing is so much more than a job. It’s much more than a hobby or a vocation. For many people—me included—it’s a way to stay happy and healthy.
I don’t write to earn money—obviously! It’s not a way to do so as I explained last week. I also don’t write to become famous—clearly, I’m not.
I write because it makes me happy.
I write because I like making other people happy.
I write because it energizes me.
I write because I’ve got stories to tell and a message I want to implant into my readers’ brains (don’t worry it’s a good message about inclusion and acceptance).
And finally, I write because it keeps me mentally healthy. As someone who suffers from depression, I find that if I sit down and disappear into another world of my own creation, I’m a happier person. In my fantasy world, I can forget about my own troubles and insecurities and deal with those of other people. Doing that helps me deal with my own in a more balanced way.
I just got back from a writing retreat where I did nothing but write for three days (okay… in the evenings we played silly games and socialized). While others were complaining how tired they were after a full day of writing, I felt great—happy, calm, and full of energy. I used that energy even after I got home to finish writing the first draft of my book.
So, no, I don’t write for money or fame, but for me and for my readers who love to escape into my fantasy world where everything ends happily every single time. If you ask any writer why they write, it’s likely that their answers are all going to be along the same lines. They write for themselves. They write for the readers. They write for the stories.
Why do you write?
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I also happen to love writing blog posts. I work hard to come up with topics that I think will interest you. However, if there is a topic you’d like me to cover here, please don’t hesitate to add a comment telling me what it is. I will be happy to answer any and all questions about writing and self-publishing. Thanks! Oh, and don’t forget about the pretty little green button to your left. 🙂