In presenting to a group of Utah high school students this week, I’m letting them know what it takes to be a writer and why its a great thing to go into. I could probably talk all day on the subject, but sadly, I was only given 30 minutes. As for the why, I narrowed it down to six.
- You are limited only by your imagination.
- It can be done almost anywhere and worked into a busy life.
- It can bless the lives of others.
- It can be a good source of income.
- It’s fun to do and to share.
- You don’t need a specific degree or license to do it. (Though it does require a lot of effort)
There are many other reasons. What are some of your reasons? What motivated you to start writing and what motivates you to keep writing?
For me, it all started with an overactive imagination. It was as if I just got to a point where it couldn’t all stay in my head anymore. I read so much growing up that I really wanted to try to make my own contribution. It has been disheartening at times, but for me all it takes is just one person telling me that they loved something that I have written to overcome all the rejections and critics that are part of writing life.
I’d love to hear all of your stories! Please comment below.
Writing Update: After knocking out that huge German translation project, I got back to the projects that are dearer to my heart. I’m up to 28,071 in Simon Says, my contemporary family drama, and up to 16,513 in my sequel to The Last Archangel. Xandir finds himself in Rome facing a demon who wants to be the second person to fiddle while the city burns.
Books by Michael D. Young 