By: John Glover (MBA)
Everyone has a unique story that deserves to be brought to life. Each person has different experiences and goals that make them who they are; no one is exactly the same. That’s what makes reading such a beautiful hobby. You get to step into someone else’s mind and see how their words create a story that you have never read before. Reading and writing are also the best ways for people to share their voices and for them to be heard. Whether it’s giving advice, sharing a personal memory, or just entertaining the audience so they can take a break from their real lives, writing a story has a purpose. It’s important not to let the fear of failure prohibit you from sharing your story because your words and voice could change someone’s life. You don’t need a writing degree to be a successful author; all you need is motivation and the desire to share your story.
The fear of failure is such a real thing for so many people. Did you know that nearly 30% of Americans are scared of failing in general? When it comes to owning a successful business, that number actually goes up to 41%. This shows the commonality of fear of failing, but it’s important not to let that stop you from achieving your dreams. Becoming an author and sharing your story might be daunting, and you might be scared no one will read what you have to say. There are billions of people out there, and all it takes is one reader for your life to change and theirs. A lot of times, the greater the risk, the greater the reward. If you feel called to write your story and thoughts down on the page, someone will be interested in your words.
Just because you don’t have a writing degree does not mean you are not worthy or prepared to become a successful writer. Digging deep into your past and using your memories and experiences is all the inspiration you need to start. A writing degree will only help you think strategically about writing, but you can learn that as you go.
“During the Covid era, my PR business slowed down greatly, so I decided to pursue creative writing for myself. The first book I wrote was a review of my long career working with celebrities in film, TV and music, called ‘Flirting With Fame.’ I just sat down every day for six straight months and wrote down all of my celebrity interaction stories chronologically, as best as I remembered them. Since these were true stories, I simply had to challenge my brain to remember stuff,” says Dan Harary, author of “FIVE.”
Inspiration is everywhere. You just have to search for it. Sometimes, even building off your experiences and tapping into something new can help set you up for success. You don’t just have to share your story about how it happened; you can use your imagination to create something new and exciting. There are so many different genres of books that you don’t have to limit yourself because the opportunities are endless. Tapping into your creativity and perhaps your childhood can help you write something that reaches a new demographic of people. Step out of your comfort zone is never easy, but trusting in yourself is the best way to succeed.
“My creative thinking for a storyline was a true amalgam of thinking the word FIVE was powerful, conceiving a character whose nickname could be Five, remembering once being told by a psychic that I was a famous actor in the Hungarian theater in the 1870s, and then marrying the idea of ‘what if the world’s biggest music star was secretly a serial killer at night’? All of those threads melted together when I developed the storyline for my newest novella, FIVE,” says Harary.
Harary is just one example of an author who tapped into different parts of his mind to create his latest work. You have all the tools to be successful and reach your goals. Everyone has a different story or idea, and no amount of studying can create a successful writer. Yes, it can help people be more strategic about the process of writing, but as long as you put in the effort and find inspiration, you are halfway there. What story do you want to tell?
Published by: Khy Talara
