Why write the story that is yours?

 

Do you know the feeling when the perfect story idea comes to you? You don't exactly know where it came from, but it is so beautiful and captivating that you feel like you have stumbled upon something special. You're ecstatic, and for weeks, even months, you write effortlessly and flow with the text. Ideas bubble up from within you. The hours fly by unbelievably quickly, but you are present in every moment, experiencing the ease of the process.

Then something happens, a very simple thing, like sharing your idea with someone or taking it to a writing workshop and encountering negative opinions. And suddenly, you start to doubt yourself. Because deep down, you know that your story has weight, credibility, and a reason to exist, but you start listening to the outside world. And your story gets tucked away in a drawer. Although you don't forget about it; it stays with you every blessed day, and even a scent can remind you of one of your characters' smiles. But you stop writing, and you only hope that the initial enthusiasm will return someday. And your character quietly waits for you to come back to it.

Then years later, the novel somehow comes up in conversation, and somewhat embarrassed, you admit that you got stuck. You dig out the manuscript from the depths of the drawer and as you reread it, you realise that the novel is about seventy percent complete, and you still love it just as much as you did in the beginning. However, that certain push is missing, the urge to start again and finish it.

I’d like to share some thoughts with you that helped me on my way and gave me that push.

This story did not arrive to you by chance, your style, perspective on life, and experiences are required for the proper interpretation.

Writing the story is primarily important for your own self, so write for yourself in your own voice, using your own truth, because that is what will make your story unique and irreplaceable.

Give yourself time to rediscover the joy and fulfilment that comes from giving life to your story.

Believe in the power of your words, for through them, you hold the potential to provoke thoughts, and change lives. 

Trust in your intuition and trust in your craft. Remember that every story has its place, every story has an audience waiting to be captivated. 

Storytelling is a deeply personal and subjective art form, and not everyone will resonate with or understand your vision. The negative feedback you received was merely a reflection of personal preferences, not a reflection of your worth as a writer or the value of your story.

While writing may be a solitary endeavour, feedback is essential for growth and improvement. Platforms like Medium offer supportive community of fellow writers, where you can feel encouraged and supported.

I know exactly how difficult it is to believe in the power of your own writing again, but after embracing your creative calling and honouring the story that has patiently waited for you, your writing will evolve into an authentic soul project, which the world needs more than ever.