Your story matters. Whether you’re writing a fiction novel, a non-fiction guide, a memoir, or a book of poetry, you have a unique story to share with the world.
Today is National Writing Day. A day to celebrate our literary pursuits. A day to share our stories and encourage those writing their own.
Your Story Is Unique
There’s no denying there are countless numbers of books and blog posts available to readers. From traditional publishers and booksellers, to self-published e-books, to chapter-by-chapter digital books shared on a personal blog, anyone can publish their story these days.
With instant access to books of all kinds, I’ve often heard people say that they’d like to write a book, but decide not to because there’s already many books about the same subject.
And while that might be true – there are a bunch of books on pretty much any subject – those books don’t have your unique voice and story. No one can tell your story like you.
Does that mean you’ll have an instant best-seller? Probably not. But ultimately, the message you have to share matters to someone.
Writing Your Story
When it comes to sharing your writing, the opportunities are almost as limitless as the number of books published. While writing a full-length book might be the end goal, starting small might be a great way to start working on both your story and your craft. But whether you’re writing an epic saga historical fiction novel, a memoir about your years as a camp counselor, or a weekly blog post showcasing your latest poetry, all writing starts with one word.
Even for the most experienced writers, writing can be hard. It takes a lot of time and work to go from idea to finished product. Whether you’re a first time writer or someone with ten books under your belt, writing allows you to share your story, your ideas, your passions with others.
Once you’ve decided on which platform you want to use to share your story – full book, shorter memoir, novella, blog posts – there are some things to remember that can help others connect with your story.
1. Establish why your story is different
While there will be plenty of books about your subject matter, you need to show readers why your version is different. You choose to write your particular story or poem for a reason. Let readers know why you want them to hear your voice.
2. Don’t worry about perfect
When you’re first starting out, especially if you’ve never written anything longer than a high school essay, the blank page can be scary. But remember, your story is about the ideas. Your work doesn’t have to be perfect, it just needs to be finished. There’s always going to be someone who thinks you should have used a different word, or arranged a scene differently. That doesn’t mean your story isn’t worth telling.
3. It doesn’t have to be fancy
While having a good grasp on basic writing conventions is helpful, you definitely don’t need a doctorate in English literature or a Masters of Fine Arts degree to be a writer. If you write, you’re a writer. Don’t worry if your sentences don’t sound like Shakespeare. Write the way that works best for you and your story.
4. Share your work
As creatives, it can be scary to share your work with others. We fear criticism and outright rejection. But with your writing , unless it’s a personal journal, your story is meant to be shared. If you’re not going to let others read it, why bother writing a book? Whether you chose to seek traditional publishing, go the self-publishing route, or simply put your story online in some format, there will be people who want to read, and love, your story. Don’t be afraid to let them see it..
If you have a story to tell, a message to share, or a passion you want to give others, writing can be a perfect way to get that story out into the world. Your unique story, regardless of how many other books or blogs are already out there, matters. Someone, somewhere needs to hear what you have to say.
So when it comes to writing your story, make sure you do it your way.
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