Why Writing Your Truth Is So Important
I was on Periscope yesterday and the someone asked one of my mentors, Nicole Walters, if they should introduce themselves as a blogger or as a writer? It was then pointed out that the two are actually very different. I respect the art and craft behind being an author and I don't think anyone who types words online can necessarily call themselves a writer.
Zadie Smith and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, both highly acclaimed authors, sat down together last week for a recording of the New York Public Library's (NYPL) podcast where amongst a number of things, Adichie's book "Americanah" was discussed. This is a book that has received high praise including being an award winning book. Despite this, Adichie has her critics.
As with most things in life, whatever you do, some will love it and some won't. When it comes to your story, whatever it is you as a writer carry, it is impossible to please everyone. Ultimately the only person you need to please is yourself, and you would do so by actually completing the work you need to write. Writing a book is not an easy feat by any means to begin with, so adding the added pressure of pleasing everyone, is simply unnecessary.
A friend of mine who co-authored "Whose Shoes Are You Wearing" explained that she experienced inner conflict when it came to writing things that no one in her family knew about. Honouring what she felt called to now involved that she bare her story for all the world to read. Had she been too concerned about what other's (including her family) would think, she wouldn't be doing her work any justice, and it would forever be "incomplete".
If you feel pressed to write and share your story, but find yourself experiencing "writer's block", I'd urge you to ask yourself what's truly holding you back from writing. I'd bet you that that "block" is in one form or another tied to fear.
We've all wondered what others will think or say once we're fully open, because it leaves us in a vulnerable state. You can't hide behind your own words after you've publicly said them, and so human nature's need for acceptance sort of holds us back from being too open.
Whether you write fiction or non-fiction, allow your characters to come to life. Be authentic and true to how they're supposed to be. That is the way that your story will have the most profound impact. As a writer I presume that is the goal, to positively impact your audience and your readers. So don't hold back, let it all out, and encourage, entertain, or educate someone in the process.
I recommend having a listen to the NYPL's podcast because it was really good, and so I've attached it below for your convenience. Enjoy!
Be blessed!
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