What writers want: 8 truths about the creative process

All writers want the same things: to be read, to be understood, and to be appreciated. But the creative process can often feel like a lonely one. In this post, we'll explore eight truths about the writer's life that will help you feel less alone in your own journey. Whether you're just starting out or you've been writing for years, these insights will give you a better understanding of what it takes to create beautiful works of art. So let's get started!

1. We want to be inspired.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of inspiration. When the Muse strikes, everything else falls away and we’re transported to a place where anything is possible. Of course, the problem with inspiration is that it’s often unpredictable and unreliable. It might strike at the most unexpected times—in the middle of the night, in the shower, or while we’re doing something completely unrelated to writing—or it might not come at all. And when it does come, it might not last long enough for us to capture it and put it down on paper (or screen). But even though inspiration can be frustratingly elusive, it’s still the thing we crave most as writers.

2. We want to be left alone.

The creative process is a delicate one, and it can be easily disrupted by outside forces. That's why many writers retreat into their own little world when they're working on a project. It's not that we don't appreciate the company, but rather that we need to concentrate in order to do our best work.

3. We want feedback—but only from people we trust.

Feedback is essential to the creative process, but it's also important to remember that not all feedback is created equal. That's why many writers only take feedback from people they trust implicitly—people who will be honest with them but also understanding of their vision for the project.

4. We want to be surprised.

One of the best parts of the creative process is that moment when something you've been working on for days, weeks, or even months suddenly comes together in a way you never could have predicted. It's those moments of surprise and serendipity that keep us coming back for more, even when the going gets tough.

5. We want to believe in what we're doing—even when no one else does.

There will always be doubters—people who don't understand what you're trying to do or who think your idea is too risky/stupid/out there to ever work. But as long as you believe in your project wholeheartedly, you'll be able to weather any storm and see it through to completion.

6. We want (and need) time to incubate our ideas.

All great ideas need time to gestate before they're ready to be born into the world. That's why many writers take long walks, take naps, or just step away from their work for a little while when they're stuck; they know that sometimes the best way to move forward is to take a step back first.

7 .We want to be understood.

Writers pour their heart and soul into their work in the hopes that others will “get” what they’re trying to say. We want our readers to understand our characters and empathize with their struggles. We want our ideas to be heard and debated. And while there will always be people who don’t “get” our work, that doesn’t stop us from hoping that someone, somewhere will appreciate what we’ve created.

8. We want to make a difference.

Most writers would probably say that they don’t set out to change the world with their words—but deep down, I think we all hope that our work will have a positive impact on those who read it. Whether it’s making them laugh or cry or think about something in a different way, we want our words to matter.

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