Why We Write

Writers come to Write to Shine workshops for all kinds of reasons. Notice we say “writers” even though the majority of people who walk through our doors do not embrace the title of writer. When we ask our writing community why they have chosen to show up and write with us for a series or a workshop, this is some of what we hear:

• I want to become a better writer.

• I want to listen to other stories.

• I want to work on the craft.

• I write to process my thoughts.

• I don’t know what I think until I write it.

• I need to take time for myself, for self-care.

• I think writing is fun.

• I don’t like to write, but I want to like it.

• I don’t write enough and would like to write more. 

• I want to meet other people.

• I like to try new things.

• I want to be able to express myself better.

• I love to read and want to make a reading/writing connection.

• I want to remember more things and write my stories.

• I want to be more creative in my writing.

They come for the accountability. The practice. An audience. For feedback. To be heard. To find a voice. To be part of a community. To build courage. To not feel alone.

Many enjoy writing and want to do more of it.  Others wish to become better writers and are working on discovering their voice. Some writers have stories they are burning to tell - stories that are heavy with grief or longing or searching. Writing can be therapy and healing. It can be a way to process emotions and thoughts. It can be a way to find truth and power.

Writing as Practice

At Write to Shine, we view writing as a practice. Like a yoga practice, or a sport; the more you do it the easier it becomes and the better you will get at it. This is a place for writers to build a writing habit, or a practice. When you have a time and a place you are expected to show up and do the work, the writing happens. And it’s always easier when you are not alone.

Writing with a group provides an audience which can give a deeper sense of purpose to writing. There is motivation and accountability also in the weekly emails we send to our Mindful Writers with poems and quotes and prompts. These always include a gentle nudge that asks, “Are you writing? Did you get anything down on the page today?”

Writing can also be fun and whimsy and a place to play and create. The majority of our writers tell us they sign-up for our workshops and meetings to have fun. And we do have fun. We play with different forms of writing and try new things. We love quotes, poems, haiku and six word memoirs. We are suckers for found poetry and letter writing.

For some, signing up is a big risk. It is “out of my comfort zone” they tell us. This is a safe place to take risks and push boundaries. Your voice might shake a little the first time you read, but it will get stronger. And so will your writing.