A book in you?

They say everybody has a least one great story inside of them screaming to get out. Of course, given the fact that anyone with a keyboard and a little spare time can produce an e-book these days, there’s also a school of thought that says maybe you should keep that book to yourself. The question of whether you should take a bold step forward and put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) is a personal one. Before you make that decision, here are some things to ask yourself.

Is it a recent idea or it is something you’ve always wanted to do? If it’s the former, you might want to let it percolate and see if you’re still as enthusiastic about the idea a week or a month from now.

Why do you want to write? If you’re searching for fame and riches, you’re likely to be disappointed. Most writers toil in anonymity, and are lucky if they can make a living from their writing, let alone become famous.

Is there a more rewarding way you could spend your time? Writing is a slow, tedious affair, and it’s often frustrating and lonely. Do you want to be hanging out with friends or family, or alone in your study banging away at the keys while the rest of the world goes on by?

If, despite all the challenges in front of you, you still want to proceed, congratulations— you might be a writer. You don’t need a smoking jacket or a fancy pipe and you don’t need a degree from a prestigious university. All you need is a good story to tell and the willingness to put in the hard work to tell it.