We are counting down to the launch of my new book, Write-A-Thon: Write Your Book in 26 Days (And Live to Tell About It). Why write-a-thon? Because we need to hear your story.
A few weeks ago, there was a picture making it’s way around Facebook. In it, a woman was hugging the words on a piece of paper. It reminded me of how I feel about so many of the books I’ve read. Books are often more than interesting stories. Books have the power to heal, encourage, give hope, teach, and inspire. Imagine that.
The writing that works (inspires, entertains, or educates a reader) often serves a purpose. Sometimes it serves a greater purpose. According to the authors of The Power of Full Engagement, purpose “fuels focus, direction, passion, and perseverance.” These authors define healthy purpose as something that is a challenge, internally motivated, and serves a greater purpose.
Writing that serves a purpose supports the reader in some way. It might be writing that entertains, informs, helps, humors, inspires, consoles, connects, gives hope, provides direction, or engages! Writing that serves a greater purpose does something to better a life, a family, or the world. This writing might raise money for a cause, raise awareness for an important political or cultural issue, or educate readers about a danger or an opportunity.
Whatever topic you are writing about, having a purpose will help you gather the energy you need to finish a writing marathon. You might be willing to give up television, regular meals, and date night for something that matters to you. You won’t be able to give up anything if the project is a piece of fluff that does not matter to anyone—you included. So choose something that matters—at least to you.
Writers, remember: the story you tell might just be the story we need to hear.
