What can content creators learn from Stephen King’s “On Writing”?

“I have written because it fulfilled me. Maybe it paid off the mortgage on the house and got the kids through college, but those things were on the side - I did it for the buzz. I did it for the pure joy of the thing. And if you can do it for joy, you can do it forever.”

— On Writing, Stephen King

If you’re a creator, producing video scripts, blog articles or social media captions, good writing can not only transform your content, but your entire creative journey.

Luckily, one of the most prolific and best-selling authors of our time - Stephen King, has documented his creative writing process… and there is A LOT we can learn from it. I recently read ‘On Writing’ — a part memoir, part master class, and a wonderful insight into his life as a writer: his inspiration, routine, and practical tips for making a living as a writer.

There were many lessons to take away on the art of storytelling, and I wanted to share some of them here. So if you want to learn how to write authentic copy that connects you with your desired audience and brings you joy, keep on reading.

Seek opportunities to get inspired.

“Reading is the creative center of a writer's life. I take a book with me everywhere I go, and find there are all sorts of opportunities to dip in. The trick is to teach yourself to read in small sips as well as in long swallows.”

What is the creative centre of your life? What content do you love to consume? Think of what truly moves and inspires you, instead of what pops up on your feed most often when you’re doom scrolling.

When you stumble upon something that clicks with you, save it. Find opportunities to “dip in” your source of inspiration, save and analyse your ideas. Then all you have to do is give them your own unique perspective, and there you have it - your niche.

Create a sustainable routine.

“If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot. There's no way around these two things that I'm aware of, no shortcut.”

Creative work requires practice, consistency and commitment. There is no shortcut - you have to be in it for the long haul. When you’re first starting out, it can be disheartening to see your hard work flop. We’ve all been there, and it honestly sucks.

That’s why you have to build a routine that is sustainable and enjoyable. Burnout is not sexy and neither is quitting too early. Keep showing up for yourself and nurture that creative spark.

Discover your authentic voice.

“Now comes the big question: What are you going to write about? And the equally big answer: Anything you damn well want. Anything at all ... as long as you tell the truth.”

It takes a lot of courage to share your work with the world to see. You might feel embarrassed and fear being judged by friends, family and strangers. But vulnerability is necessary for you to discover your authentic voice.

“ What would be very wrong, I think, is to turn away from what you know and like in favor of things you believe will impress your friends, relatives, and writing-circle colleagues. […] Write what you like, then imbue it with life and make it unique by blending in your own personal knowledge of life, friendship, relationships, sex, and work.”

Your unique experience and view of the world is what will make your content stand out. Staying true to yourself will not only help you connect with like-minded people, but discover your hidden potential and develop confidence as a creator and an individual.

Do work that fulfils you.

”Writing isn’t about making money, getting famous, getting dates, getting laid, or making friends. In the end, it’s about enriching the lives of those who will read your work, and enriching your own life, as well. It’s about getting up, getting well, and getting over. Getting happy okay? Getting happy.”

Most of us choose the unconventional route of working in the creative industry to express ourselves freely and authentically through our work. Content creators, digital nomads, artists, copywriters, designers, photographers, dancers alike transform our life experiences into art for others to experience and consume.

Your work should empower you to express yourself in a healthy and meaningful way, bring you joy and fulfilment, and enrich your life.