Finding Your Why: Understanding Your Motivation for Writing

Hey there, friend! Let’s talk about something real for a second—your "why." Not the kind of "why" like, Why did I eat that extra slice of cake? (we've all been there), but the deeper why. The one that makes you pick up a pen or open your laptop and start pouring your thoughts onto the page.

So, why do you write? Is it for fun, to tell a story, or to share a message? Maybe it's to make a little noise in this big ol' world. Whatever it is, there’s something that pushes you to do it, and understanding that “why” is the key to keeping you going when writer’s block or life tries to throw you off track.

Let’s break it down:

What lights your fire?

Ask yourself, What got me excited about writing in the first place? Was it the idea of sharing your personal experiences? Creating a fictional world? Helping others through your words? Think about what sparks joy and gets you pumped to write. That’s your flame—don’t let it go out!

Who’s it for?

Are you writing for yourself, as a way to process thoughts and feelings? Or is it for others—maybe you want to inspire, teach, or entertain? Knowing your audience helps shape how you express yourself. Writing for someone else can add a fun layer of motivation, especially if you picture their reactions or feedback.

What’s the bigger picture?

Your “why” doesn’t have to be some grand, life-changing mission, but it helps to think about the bigger impact. What’s the purpose behind your words? Do you want to make people laugh, offer a new perspective, or leave a legacy? Even if it’s just to bring a little joy to someone’s day, understanding your purpose keeps you grounded.

Ride the wave of passion

Writing is like surfing—sometimes you’re riding the high, and other times you’re wiping out. But if your “why” is strong, you’ll keep paddling back out. When the going gets tough (hello, blank pages), remind yourself why you started. That motivation is your fuel, and the wave will come back around.

So, friend, whether you're journaling for personal growth, crafting your next novel, or blogging about your passions, take a moment to find your “why.” When you connect with it, writing feels less like a chore and more like a natural expression of who you are.

Now go on—get to writing, and have fun with it! You’ve got a story that only you can tell.