Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of having a clear sense of direction to enhance one's writing skills and impact, suggesting that writing with purpose can lead to learning, teaching, inspiring change, and even financial gain.

Abstract

The article "How a Sense of Direction Can Help You Become a Better Writer" argues that effective writing requires a clear understanding of one's purpose. It posits that in the digital age, where information overload is common, writers must articulate their reasons for writing to connect with their audience on a deeper level. The author suggests that writing to learn, teach, and inspire change can not only consolidate the writer's own ideas and knowledge but also empower others, affect societal change, and potentially lead to financial success. By sharing personal insights and experiences, writers can mentor their readers, provide guidance, and motivate them to take action, all while using their writing as a tool for personal growth and influence.

Opinions

The author believes that most online content lacks a sense of purpose and direction, which is a significant issue in the current information-saturated environment.
Writing with a clear "why" is crucial as it helps to establish a connection with the reader and makes the text more engaging and meaningful.
The act of writing is seen as a method for learning and understanding new concepts by researching, applying knowledge, and articulating findings.
Teaching through writing is valued for its

How a Sense of Direction Can Help You Become a Better Writer

Most online content is a rambling-six-hours speech nobody wants to listen.

Why are you here?

Do you want to learn? Do you want to write? Do you want to inspire and make money? Whatever you do here, you can leave a trace. You can learn. You can change, and you can affect the world. You can also start a business, become a programmer, and you can supplement your income by simply sharing your ideas.

The World is shoveling an unholy amount of information down people’s throat every day. The problem with vast content is a lack of sense and direction.

You are answering a profound question of why. The answer connects you with the inner-self and your reader. Your why is going to shine through your text. Why are you writing today?

Write to Learn

The bulk of my writing and some of my top-performing stories come from learning. I research any subject I find interesting.

I’m buying books. I’m searching the web. Then, I’m applying the knowledge in the real world. And finally, I’m writing about my findings.

Writing helps consolidate ideas and knowledge. You’re thinking about it from a different perspective. You’re stimulating your memory and piecing the bigger story together.

Write to Teach

Teaching is another personal sense of direction. You can share your knowledge and experience with others. Maybe your business is finally green, after years of shoveling through the gutters.

Your knowledge is valuable. You can help others heal the pain because you know exactly where it hurts.

Become a mentor to your reader. Give them a plan and tell them how to succeed. Show them a path to overcome fears. Inspire them to take the next step. Write to teach and update your reader's life.

Write to Inspire Change

The biggest power in writing comes from encouraging positive change. People in power are afraid of you, a writer.

That’s the reason why so many free spirits die under the thumb of oppressive regimes every year. The reason why Donald Trump can’t seem to phantom free speech is fear. Words have power. Words have the power to change the world. And you’re in the business of creating stories through words.

The written world is powerful. You’re a member of the society, and you feel the same injustice your neighbor feels. And you have the power to be the voice of your people and elicit change. Words are your weapon of mass destruction. You can use them to fight for your family, community, and yourself.

The Takeaway

Do you know why you are writing? What is the reason behind your 300th post on Medium? Are you on the same page as yourself?

The reader is not excited to read when the author is unsure of why he writes. When you know the why behind your actions, your ideas become relevant and interesting.

Medium is a powerful platform you can use it to learn, teach, and inspire change. You have the power to become a voice of reason. The possibilities are endless.

Why are you writing?