Whether you know it or not, your desire to write comes from the urge to not just be ‘creative’, it’s a need (one every human being on earth has) to help others. A well-told Story is a gift to the reader/listener/viewer because it teaches them how to confront their own discomforts. – Shawn Coyne, The Story Grid
Have you ever embarked on a journey that left an indelible mark on your soul where a trip transcended from mere acquaintance and blossomed into a profound friendship? I recently experienced such a voyage — an eight-day adventure that ignited my passion for writing.
Over the course of eight days, there were lots of conversations about politics, family, food, and not forgetting, the half-hour walks in the middle of the night during winter. Bundled in layers of clothing, our legs weighed down by the chill, and we continued to trudge forward. Yet, despite all that, our laughter and shared jokes illuminated the darkness. It was a walk that etched itself into memory, irreplaceable and cherished.
During that trip, a question surfaced: ‘Are you interested in starting a column? Why not begin writing?’
As a communication specialist with over a decade of experience, I have penned for corporate companies and lifestyle brands, ghostwritten for C-level executives, and contributed articles to media outlets. Still, this question struck a chord. Why hadn’t I considered writing more seriously?
Reflecting on my past, I recalled my childhood journals — daily entries capturing everyday joys and schoolyard dramas. When I was in secondary school, I launched a blog, thanks to my friends who encouraged me to do so. Today, that humble blog has evolved into a food and travel haven. Undeniably, writing became my refuge, a canvas for expression.
In recent years, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has led to significant advancements in fields including journalism and writing (with tools like CoPilot and ChatGPT). Naturally, such advancements have raised the question of whether AI will one day replace humans.
I believe not. Crafting an eloquent piece demands not just grammatical flair but also requires creative and innovative perspectives that resonate well with the readers. While AI can assist, the soul of storytelling remains uniquely human.
So, as I continue my writing journey, there comes another question.
“Should I agree to this friend of mine that I will start writing?”
“If yes, what am I going to write? What do I want to write?”
“Sharing about my story?” or “Sharing about food and travel tips that make one salivate?”
As I ponder hard about this and speak to my other half, they inspire me to share topics from a communicator’s perspective, such as the impact of social media on husband and wife, the influence of nonverbal communication in virtual interactions, and oh, what about the difference in gender and communication styles. Or perhaps the common dilemma faced by employees when talking to bosses while trying to balance the ugly truth in the workplace. The list can go on and on, but first things first … I need to respond to my dear friend.
If you see this article published in New Sarawak Tribune, then there you go — you know my answer! I promise I will not bore you with technical terms or jargon, but you will learn some tips and tricks from real-life experience, so stay tuned to my fortnightly column!
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
