One listener asked, “Do I need to love writing to write my life stories?”
The short answer—no—but watch the video to hear my full answer.
Writing is a discipline. While loving it makes the process easier and more enjoyable, it’s not required. You can still write your stories even if you find it challenging or tedious at times.
Sometimes, the satisfaction comes after the writing is done, much like the feeling after a good workout.
The important part is to commit to the process and keep writing, whether you love every minute or not.
If you’d like to know more about hypergraphia, here’s an article in Psychology Today titled “Quirky Minds: Hypergraphia: A River of Words.”
But always remember, the only way to do this wrong is to not do it at all!
The very first class I took with Patricia in the Villages nearly ended my writing career, let me explain. The first day I walked in I realized everyone there had a lot of writing experience…I had none. One lady I met said as soon as she opens her eyes in the morning all she wanted to do was write. I did not. Many had worked for newspapers or had something published. I had nothing like that. Anyway, I hung in there and listened to Patricia whom I immediately felt comfortable with. I felt I maybe could write my own stories… Read more »
I enjoy writing when I have a good idea to start with. I have to be motivated though.
I do like to journal.
Writing is exploration, like searching for the holy grail. I am in search of that Simile so perfectly phrased it becomes a cliché. Sometimes I feel I can’t stop writing, because Im on a roll, inspired, and I dont know how long it will last, and im afraid I wont get that inspiration back. Other times I continue to write in hopes it will trigger my brain into inspiration.
If I don’t write, I might miss the opportunity to find that satisfying good sentence? This is my favorite take away. Still searching….
I love writing. It is my passion, and I write every day. I also help others improve their stories by line editing. Not only does it help them, but it also helps me become a better writer. So, Patricia, I have to add a bit to your answer. You don’t have to love writing to write your story, but if you want your story written well, you must fall in love with your writing.
I like to keep a balanced life, between family, writing and exercise. Writing can take over; then I feel guilty. When family and exercise take over, I feel guilty. I cannot win.
I can relate, Nancy! Thanks for sharing this feeling. I struggle with this every day, and knowing others do to makes me feel not so weird!
Don’t feel guilty, Nancy. Maybe prioritize whenever you can.
Writing in a foreign language since February 2022. My goal as I joined Life Writers and Patricia Charpentier was to write and publish memoirs of my childhood. In 2022 I gave my all through the weekly courses, meetings, writing, group sharing and feedback. But little writing outside of LW. 2023 was tough as health issues I already faced in 2022, floored me to the point I almost quit all writing and memberships. 2024 listening to Patricia’s teachings, I started everyday journaling in a few phrases. Successful surgery on April 29th got me back on my feet. By May 12, influenced… Read more »
English is not my native language either, and I find it poses challenges in addition to motivation and, possibly, self-doubt. I’m not certain that fluency is the main issue; it’s simply the “other”, the “less familiar”, the “different sound and tone from what I remember when I recall a situation.” I am also finding that this duality will probably never quite leave—at least for me.
Bravo, Thierry! That’s a good deal of words to be proud of. I’m glad you remained a member through the struggles with health and surgery. It sounds like you are on a good path. I look forward to reading more of your thoughtful stories.
Keep on writing, my friend. I will be cheering you on in your journey.
I’m glad to hear you are able to continue writing despite your health and surgery. These setbacks can derail your writing. Good for you to keep on task.
Writing is like going to the gym. The exercise is hard but you feel better afterwards. Also, I’m a kid again, putting together my art project, just like the teacher explained; with paste glue, misaligned construction paper pieces, and stray crayon marks. When I show it to Mom I see all the glaring errors and criticize my work, while she praises it.
Those are appealing analogies. The gym and the art project. Thank you for putting those in my brain!
Dave, practice makes it better. Keep on doing it!
You have shared many enjoyable stories with us. Keep it up.