“We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospect.” —Anaïs Nin
Six years ago, I started a blog. And writing has remained a constant in my life ever since. Prior to starting Becoming Minimalist, I had done very little writing—a few articles for a company newsletter, but that’s about it. But these days, I try to write something new every day.
Two weeks ago, I sent in a manuscript for a new book, Only What Matters: The Life-Giving Benefits of Owning Less. The book will be released in December, just in time for Christmas. It is the most comprehensive introduction and explanation of minimalism I have ever written. I am really excited for you to see it—we’ve got some fun things planned this year.
Because of the book’s deadline, I have spent the last six weeks almost entirely immersed in the writing process (a gracious thank-you to the guest bloggers who filled in some of the gaps for me). Looking back, the focused writing time has caused me to appreciate the process even more—not just because of a finished manuscript, but because of what writing has meant to me on a personal level.
It has changed me.
Writing has forced discipline in my life. More than I ever expected, writing requires discipline. The past six years have involved countless early mornings and late nights. Most writers will attest to that fact. Writing requires the discipline to sit quietly on a chair, alone in a room with a blank page. All writing begins there.
Writing has provided opportunity to refine opinions. Dawson Trotman once said, “Thoughts disentangle themselves when they pass through the lips and the fingertips.” He was right. Writing has required me to both understand and articulate my opinions. It has forced me to research my assumptions, defend them, and change when necessary.
Writing has prompted intentionality. Writing requires observation. And observation almost always leads to intentionality. Once I began writing about life and the thoughts that shape it, I began to think more intentionally about who I was becoming—and whether that was consistent with what I desired most.
Writing has made me more comfortable with my life’s journey. Recently, the New York Times published new research that seems to indicate writing—and then rewriting—your personal story can lead to behavioral changes and improved happiness. Among other reasoning, one argument is that writing helps us better understand our unique narrative and find deeper meaning in our trouble and suffering. After writing consistently for six years and experiencing this effect, I agree.
Writing has provided accountability. I chose to write publicly and have brought expectation upon myself because of it. In fact, the last time I posed for a selfie with a reader, she asked, “So do you really live out everything you write?” Even a private journal provides accountability. As we script our story, we find accountability—not to the written word, but to ourselves. We see how far we’ve come, how much we have left to accomplish, and why giving up now would be foolish.
Writing has increased my passion for the message. For six years, I have written about the benefits of owning less. Some days, I feel like I could write for six more. As I do, I continue to see how owning less holds benefit for all. Through readers’ comments and personal emails, I experience again the life-changing impact of this simple message: There is more joy to be found in owning less than we can ever discover pursuing more.
I have experienced other benefits for sure. Writing has given me a platform to share my message and has provided me the freedom to pursue it entirely. But still, the greatest change is the change that has occurred within me. I experienced each of them well before this blog had any regular readers.
There are important reasons to write. I recommend it often.
And if you’re interested in writing online, here’s a guide on how to start a blog.
Beth says
I especially like the last two points. We could all use more accountability…it’s motivating. And the last point, more passion for the message. I have some messages in my own heart that I would like to increase my boldness for. Boldness and passion can be synonyms, don’t you think?
Elizabeth says
I just happened on your blog a few months ago right after sorting through all our belongings in preparation for moving into a smaller house. The experience so invigorated me, I kept telling everybody they need to get rid of half their stuff and move into a smaller house. Most people were puzzled and thought I was strange. It was such an encouragement to start reading here and I finally felt understood. I love what you write and the guest posts. I think I have been a minimalist all my life by nature and often felt encumbered by all the things considered necessary to life. I appreciate your courageous challenges and am learning a lot. I keep that donations box ready at all times so the pairing down continues and rich living expands. Thank you.
Daisy @ Simplicity Relished says
I couldn’t agree with you more, Elizabeth!! We’re looking for an apartment now, and minimalism has changed my perspective on what we need!
Gina@Following Simplicity says
I write because it helps me to know what I think. So much of my thinking and learning process happens only when I take the time to record it, even if it’s just the morning scribbles I make in my journal.
Green Girl says
I agree that writing can really help you clarify what you want from yourself. I feel that when I write, it is like talking myself into better habits. I also write a lot about minimalism and how it impacts our health, wealth and happiness, in addition to being the true ‘green’ lifestyle.
Eva Z. says
I have been following your blog for a few years and recently started to read the archives from the beginning. I have to say that your writing as evolved and improved a LOT! I really enjoy your blog and have been on minimalist mission since I start reading it. I do not miss your early ways of non-capitalization of sentences or names :) Thank you so much for a wonderful blog and keep writing!!!
Eva Z. says
“writing has…” and “started reading it”…jeeez, I am sorry! I should reread things before I press Post.
Mrs. Maroon says
I’ve always gravitated towards the more technical side of education topics – math and science. I became an engineer after all! I don’t consider myself to be particularly creative. Drawings by my three-year-old Mini already rival my stick figure renderings. But writing a blog has awakened a creative spirit inside me. I have far less than your six years under my belt, but do believe continued writing will bring those same benefits to me – and can do the same for anyone else too!
Andrew says
Funny how things become more “real” when you write them down. Goals, solutions, viewpoints, all stand out and become something much more once written.
I feel the more you write the more you learn about yourself and your intentions, viewpoints, and motivations.
Suzannah Kolbeck says
Off topic, but if you need a guest blogger on the subject of minimalism and teens, I am the blogger for you.
:)
Judy says
Joshua—I did notice a lot of guests bloggers and I knew you must have been busy! We here at this site are all behind you and we rejoice in your success. Congrats! :)
And thank you…
Linda@Creekside says
These 6 core truths about writing? Substantial, true, solid.
Kind of like that book you’re writing. This whole call to minimalism is no passing fad, no flash-in-the-pan kind of thing.
Can’t wait to get my hands on those pages, Josh …
P.S. I’m sharing your post in my sidebar. I want my tribe to be here with me.