Change. It’s a scary word, isn’t it? Just saying it out loud can make you break out in a cold sweat. But if you have spent a great deal of time NOT writing, then something surely has to change. What if I told you that change doesn’t have to be scary? In fact, it can be exhilarating.
I am writing this not with the idea of huge life changes, but incorporating small changes into your life as you begin to write. Changing your routine to include writing your memoir or inspirational book will require some changes in mindset.
“I don’t have time to write.”
“No one would read what I write.”
“I’m nobody. Who wants to read about me?”
Oh, my dear friend – you couldn’t be more mistaken. You are exactly who can inspire someone downtrodden, you can bring humor to someone who needs a lift, you can help people break habits or begin great habits. On the other hand, only you can write that treasured legacy book for the family.
That is why they will read your writing.
The secret to fulfilling your dream of writing is as simple as embracing change.
And if you can incorporate real life stories and even humor into your writing process, you will see the changes as a writer from a higher perspective. It won’t be you seeing only the small pieces, but from a higher view, you will see the big picture. The beginning from the end, and that is what your reader will need to see. There is good, there is hope, there is peace at the end of the journey.
You might be thinking, “But why should I change? Can’t I just stick to my comfortable routine and avoid all the scary unknowns?” ‘Why should I put myself ‘out there’ where everyone will see I am less than perfect?”
Well, sure, you could do that. But if you want to fulfill that dream of becoming a published author or of helping people you may never meet, you need to embrace change. Count on it, someone is waiting for your book if you feel called to write one. Only God knows those details.
Understanding Change
Change always brings with it an opportunity for growth and personal development.
For example, let’s say you’ve been stuck in a dead-end job for years. You’re comfortable, you know the routine, and you don’t want to rock the boat. But deep down, you know you’re capable of more. That’s where change comes in. By embracing the idea of change, you can take a risk and try something new. Maybe you’ll land a better job, start your own business, or discover a passion you never knew you had. What a story that would be!
Of course, change can also be forced upon you, whether it’s by a global pandemic (oh, please, let’s not do that again) a breakup, or a surprise career change. But even in these difficult situations, you have the power to turn things around and write about them. By embracing the unpredictability of life, you can come out on the other side stronger and more resilient.
Here is a short list of To Dos to get you started with change:
- Develop a Growth Mindset
One of the keys to embracing change is to develop a growth mindset. This means seeing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than as insurmountable obstacles. But let’s be real – that’s easier said than done. So why not write about it and throw in a little humor? By finding the humor in a difficult situation, you can shift your perspective and see things in a new light. Plus, laughter releases endorphins, which can help you feel more positive and resilient.
- Take Action
When faced with a big change, it’s easy to get stuck in analysis paralysis. That is especially true when it comes to writing your inspirational book. But the truth is, the only way to move forward is to take action. Sure, you might make some mistakes along the way – but that’s just more material for your book. By embracing your mistakes and laughing at yourself, you can turn even the most challenging situations into a source of entertainment.
- Be Open-Minded
One of the biggest obstacles to embracing change is misunderstanding who you are in the Kingdom. If you’re not willing to consider God’s view of you, instead of your own negative view of you, you’re going to have a hard time adapting to change. But if you can approach things with that more positive mindset, you might just discover something new and wonderful — your true self!
Have I convinced you of the need to run fearlessly toward change?
Embracing change can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. By approaching things with a sense of anticipation, you can turn even the most challenging situations into a dream fulfilled. And by using change as a jumping-off point for growth and personal development, you can leave behind those fears of writing and sharing your work.
So go ahead – embrace change, find the blessings in it, and watch as your life transforms before your eyes.
I hesitate to do this, but here’s a shameless plug for Inspire Writers Academy. I can help aspiring writers wherever they may be stuck. Find out how by emailing me at [email protected] or here at Wordology.blog. Or join our Facebook page for aspiring writers here. Let me know what’s going on and where you need a nudge to move forward. (No signups, no commitment, no obligation.) I read all your emails.
Until next time…