4 Reasons to Write a Book
There are many reasons people set out to write a book. Some reasons are good, some…not so much. Writing a book takes intense discipline and commitment, so if you decide to set out to accomplish this goal, check your intentions. If they’re pure, you’re much more likely to see the project through to the end. Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, but here are four solid reasons I have found for writing a book:
1. Make your dream come true
If you’re thinking about writing a book, chances are that you’ve been thinking about it for a while. Maybe even since you were a child. The idea of seeing your name in print, on the cover of a book, makes your heart all flippy-fluttery. Like being in love, the feeling can be hard to explain, but it’s undeniable. When you set your mind on the dream of writing a book, it won’t leave you alone until you make it come true. Chasing dreams isn’t just for Disney princesses—it’s for you too! So go get ‘em!
2. Become a better version of yourself
Writing, especially writing memoir, is a process of deep reflection and introspection. When you look for the meaning in your life and your story, you are reminded about what really matters. You are reminded of the important lessons you’ve learned along the way. You can see where you’ve been guided, influenced, or even saved by others. This changes your perspective and focus, not only in terms of writing your book, but in the present moment where you live today. Writing sets the stage for mindfulness, and vice versa, and helps us see the big picture. And when we see the big picture, we make better decisions and treat others and ourselves with more kindness.
3. Reach a broader audience
You can only be in one place at a time. But your story has the potential to benefit many people outside your circle of close friends and family, and a book is a wonderful way to reach those people. Books take on a life of their own, passing from friend to friend, sister to sister, book club to book club. They are referred to again and again, sometimes years or decades after they were written. Vicious dogs notwithstanding, they’re pretty hard to destroy. Treasured books become heirlooms passed from generation to generation, with an influence that is not only broad, but deep.
4. Make an impact that lasts
A book, in my opinion, is the pinnacle creation of the written word. To write a book, you have to sit with your subject for a long time. You think through every avenue and iteration of what you want to say. You craft each chapter, paragraph, and sentence with intention. And in return for this outpouring of your heart, you don’t ask for just two minutes of your readers’ time to watch a catchy little Instagram reel, which they will go on to forget in another two minutes. You take your reader on a journey, one that is worth their time and attention and which they won’t soon forget, because those we journey with become our closest friends.
