Beyond Words: Why You Should Be Writing

If there’s one thing that has remained a constant beacon in my life, it’s the echo of ink on paper—the art of writing. As the years have flowed, it has become clearer to me that writing is not just a craft for authors or poets, we are all meant to be writers. It’s a universal sanctuary, one that whispers to the young, hums with the adults, and sings loudly with the elderly. There is always one question that comes back to me in my public speaking speeches. And if I had a penny for every time I was asked about the secret to effective articulation, I’d probably own a small island by now. My response has always been, “Write.”

Writing, you see, is more than just putting words together. It’s a mental dance, a link between our deepest feelings, the feelings we are lesser aware of and the outside world. We’re doing more than passing the time when we scribble our dreams, rave about our days, or make up wild stories about a dove who’s secretly a spy (don’t steal it; I might write it eventually). We’re teaching our brains to analyze information, reflect, and communicate. Every journal entry you make after a tiresome day isn’t just a record; it’s therapy—a balm for a restless mind. And when our seasoned hands, enriched with experiences, pen down memoirs or reflections, you’re sharing with yourself self-wisdom and cementing memories.

As a writer, my relationship with words has influenced more than just my profession. It has shaped my perception, my interactions, and, most importantly, my understanding of myself and those around me. The rhythmic cadence of free writing has often sparked unexpected bouts of creativity, reminding me that age is no barrier to innovation. Perhaps the most enlightening influence writing has had on my life is in the art of communication. Writing, often overlooked, serves as the foundation of articulation. If you know what you are going to say, its easier to say it. It’s the silent rehearsal before the performance, the blueprint before the structure. Writing is not merely a means of conveying thoughts; it is a process of refining them, of distilling complex ideas into coherent, persuasive narratives. In each instance where I have counseled someone to embrace writing as a tool to enhance their speaking skills, I have observed a remarkable progression. You see its about how the disciplined practice of writing cultivates a deeper understanding of one’s own thoughts and ideas. It’s akin to a rehearsal where you engage in a dialogue with yourself, examining and re-examining your ideas, gaining clarity and confidence that is later mirrored in your speech. The act of writing compels you to organize thoughts logically, choose words carefully, and construct arguments more persuasively. These skills, once honed on paper, seamlessly transition into spoken communication. But more than that, writing fosters an introspective journey, encouraging exploration of landscapes and understanding your thought processes. This self-awareness is crucial in effective communication as it allows for more authentic, empathetic, and responsive interaction. In essence, writing is not just a tool for better speech; it is an exercise in critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and empathetic engagement. Therefore, the correlation between writing and articulate speech is profound and transformative. It transcends the mere act of transferring ideas from pen to tongue, encompassing the holistic development of your communicative prowess, both in the clarity of expression and the depth of understanding.

Encouraging our children to engage in regular writing, be it through traditional journals or modern journaling apps(a perfect Christmas gift for family and friends to encourage writing), holds transformative potential for their communication skills and overall development. As a parent, I’ve recognized that journaling offers a personal and reflective space for children to express themselves freely. This practice is pivotal for their emotional and cognitive growth, allowing them to process feelings, foster self-awareness, and develop emotional intelligence. Regular writing helps children articulate their thoughts clearly, laying a foundation for effective communication. Moreover, investing in journals or journaling apps is a tangible affirmation of our support for their intellectual and emotional growth. In a digital age where brief texts and social media posts dominate, journaling encourages children to slow down, reflect deeply, and cultivate a disciplined approach to self-expression.

This discipline of writing extends beyond personal development; it significantly enhances their academic skills. Improved vocabulary, grammar, and coherent argument construction are direct benefits that translate to better academic performance. As children grow, these writing habits evolve into a powerful tool for self-advocacy and effective communication in various life aspects. Therefore, providing our children with the resources to journal is an investment in developing confident, articulate, and emotionally intelligent individuals. It’s not just about enhancing their present communication abilities; it’s about equipping them with lifelong skills essential for navigating the complexities of human interaction and personal expression in their future.

In our world, where digital chatters often drown out profound silences, I invite you to rediscover the ageless echo of ink, be it on paper or through a digital app. For in those silent strokes and taps lie stories, dreams, reflections, and a journey of personal growth. But here’s my favorite part: the universe of writing is expansive. There’s space for everyone. Whether you’re into traditional diaries with locks (you know those ones from when we were younger, to keep out nosy siblings) or prefer digital notes (because, hello, 21st century), it all counts.

Writing is not just for the few; it’s a legacy for all. Embrace it, and let it guide you, as it has me, through the myriad stages and emotions of life.