I used to think that I did not need a reason to write other than I just want to write a book. And then in times of doubt, I find myself wondering why I am doing this in the first place. Why am I spending all of this time trying to accomplish this goal?
It was in one of these moments that I really thought about it.
I thought back to when I was a teenager and would lock myself in my room to read. I thought about why I read so much. The answer I came to was that these books brought magic and joy into my life. They were an escape, an adventure, and a way to bond with others. I believe I developed my imagination and creativity based on these stories, a skill that is probably what makes me able to write my own stories today. They helped me develop as a person, to learn how to solve problems, and to be kind and understand others’ point of view. They gave me an outlet when things got tough. And above all, I saw so many more colors in the world than I did before. Books taught me to see the magic around me.
I remembered thinking, how cool would it be to write a book someday? And there I had my answer. I write to bring magic to the lives of others. I write for that girl I used to be so that she can become the one I’ve become, that still sees magic in stories and the world around her today. I want to do what so many authors have already done for me. Stories are not “just books,” they have the power to change us, especially at times when we are looking for answers.
The importance of digging deep and questioning my motives for writing is apparent to me now. “I write to bring magic to the lives of others” is inscribed in my brain as the reason, the purpose that drives me forward when I falter. It pushes me to do more and focus better. It is why I keep going. It is a light in the darkness of my self-doubt.
Of course, I include myself in my reason. I also write to bring magic into my own life. As I think about the girl I was and the one I am now, I try to make both versions of myself proud. And I write until I feel good about my own story. I write until I would want to be friends with my characters and live in their world. It is my belief that writers should write for themselves as well as others. The best works contain pieces of their creator, but are meant to be enjoyed by others.
Realizing what your reason is for embarking on this crazy journey to write and publish a book is so important because it keeps you going in times of doubt. There is always more to it than just that you want to write. And that deeper “why” will help you become the writer you always wanted to be. I have more of a drive now than I ever had before I realized that I write to bring enjoyment and a little magic and light into the lives of others as well as myself.
And I challenge you to really think about why you write.
