WRITING

8 Reasons I Always Read Articles About Writing

It’s more personal than I thought

“If I waited for perfection… I would never write a word.” — Margaret Atwood

Admit it: If you’re like me, you click on every post related to improving the art of writing. Personally, I’m instinctively drawn to stories offering tips, strategies, and suggestions exploring the nuances of the craft.

I can’t stop myself. And I’m not sorry.

Sometimes I just have to know what I don’t know. I can’t take the chance of missing out on any nugget of wisdom, experience, or truth others have stumbled upon and mastered — especially if they’re willing to share with those of us still trying to find our way.

In an article on Writer’s Edit by Dean Elfick, he explains:

“For true feedback, the best people to show your work to are your contemporaries, other writers who know the process and can give you valuable advice and clarification.”

Scouring through articles about writing, I’ll usually uncover a few interesting techniques, tips, or resources — maybe a new method of marketing or another publishing platform to explore. All good stuff — yet I’m often left with a few unanswered questions. And then the search continues for the next post promising to reveal new perspectives, insights, and secrets.

Because we all love a treasure hunt every now and then.

In no particular order, here are the top 8 reasons why I enjoy reading articles about writing:

1. I can agree or disagree in the privacy of my own head.

If anyone was watching while I’m reading one of those articles, they’d notice my head nodding, shaking, and tilting. Occasionally I’ll laugh out loud or roll my eyes. Whatever. While I’m not always able to remain neutral about an article’s subject or perspective, I’ve learned that knowledge often comes at a price — and sometimes it’s uncomfortable.

2. I’m always looking for a few good ideas — and a new slant on things.

I readily admit I’m guilty of wanting to improve my own writing by seeking the advice of others. But I tell myself it’s a good kind of guilt — and that excuse gets me through the day.

By reading the personal stories, opinions, and documented arguments of other writers, I come away with a unique viewpoint that, hopefully, will parlay into a couple juicy ideas — ones I can write about in my own voice and words. And I continually remind myself to keep an open mind to other ways of looking at the world — and all the other possibilities to be explored.

3. I enjoy anticipating the payoff promised in the title.

More than piquing my curiosity, a great title is like the smell of baking cookies — I’m captured by the aroma, led by the nose until I can finally sink my teeth into the sweet, chewy goodness with complete and total satisfaction.

Which is why the promise in the headline compels me to read each article with optimism, hoping the premise is a realistic prelude to honest content.

Sometimes there’s a hidden bonus — some aspect or level of logic cleverly suggested in the title. I consider it a double win when there’s more to the piece than what appears on the surface. Because it means the writer is challenging me to peel off the outside layer to find the truth.

4. I’m looking for new ways to write about interesting topics.

I can’t help taking a peek at what’s working for others and evaluating different styles and techniques that may strike a personal chord. The process is even more rewarding when I find a few new ideas to road test, or an opposing viewpoint to consider, or a humorous personal experience I can relate to. And then the fun begins!

First-person narrative or third-person perspective? Humor, drama, or news-speak? Metaphor, analogy, or fable? So many options — so little time …

5. I’m still trying to figure out if writing is a passion or an unresolved fantasy — and whether there’s really any difference.

Sometimes the only way to know if writing is truly embedded in my soul is if another writer’s work stirs me on some level. That twinge of encouraging kinship keeps me motivated, especially when certain words and phrases fire up my emotions. And that’s when I head straight to the keyboard and start typing away.

Whether a knee-jerk response or unavoidable urge to capture those thoughts before they disappear down the drain, I’ve learned what we often call talent is really discipline — partnered with the ability to maintain focus and let everything else around me fade into the shadows.

And that’s when I know — at least in the moment — that this writing thing really is my calling. Because it always takes me on a journey to a happier place.

6. I look to others for their insight — and to instill a bit of humility.

By reading the work of other writers, I’m exposed to new ways of connecting with readers, becoming more authentic, and developing strategies to dismantle my personal barriers. And sometimes, the raw truth, grit, and courage of those brave authors is a reminder that it’s okay to be honest, vulnerable, and candid with my own writing.

There’s a lot I don’t know — even when I think I do. And sometimes it takes the wisdom of those more experienced to remind me of that obvious fact.

7. I consider articles about writing an online education.

Online learning is my method of choice, because it provides the opportunity to choose my instructors, determine how much homework is required, and find creative ways to earn a little extra credit.

And this is where my real intentions are revealed. Because if I always picked the easy courses, I’d only learn the easy stuff.

Good writers — and those who strive to become better —are constantly seeking out challenges. They don’t avoid the heavy topics, difficult lessons, or succumb to a relentless need to increase their output in deference to quality.

We’re in it because we want to keep writing and become intriguing story-tellers — and say goodbye to the day job.

8. I’m supportive of my peers, and know someday they may become great.

And that’s what we’re all hoping will happen — for ourselves and each other. As writers, we embrace collective goals while facing similar challenges, doubts, and fears. And we have an unspoken agreement to write about what we’ve learned and spread it around.

Generosity loves company.

And it’s exciting to know there are others out there willing to share their ideas, knowledge, and experience with the rest of us.

“Share your knowledge and experience with others. Be patient and watch your seeds grow.” — Jill Reid, Real Life

© 2021 Jill Reid. All Rights Reserved.

Jill Reid is the author of Real Life and Discover Your Personal Truth. Her books and articles explore life, happiness, relationships, health, and personal success strategies.