If you’re writing a book, or thinking of writing one, a vital first step is research. But maybe you chafe at word, or the idea. This week’s Substack offers tips on how to lean in to your curiosity, and how you’ll find yourself doing “research” without really trying when you do. Here’s a preview of this week’s newsletter, which explores the benefits and the surprising downside of doing research for your writing:
Why writers need to start with research
A non-fiction book is not an island. It is, rather, a building in a city of ideas. One voice of many in a conversation. Employ whatever metaphor you want, but you are not the first person to write about whatever topic you are writing about. However, you do have something to add to that conversation.
My own non-fiction books (I’ve written a dozen of them) often began with a question or dilemma in my own life. I’d often follow the old advice of writing a book that I wish I could read.
How do I nurture my spiritual life while raising preschoolers? (God’s Whisper in a Mother’s Chaos)
How do I hear God? (Listen)
How is the pace of my life related to my experience of God? (Breathe)
My writing is driven by my commitment to be curious. While I share my thoughts on a topic, and contribute to the conversation, I also want to learn by writing. I want to always nurture my curiosity, and research allows me to do that.
Writing a book begins with drilling down on our curiosity. Before you write—read. Another way to say it: Before and while you write a non-fiction book, you need to do research.
Photo by cottonbro studio at www.pexels.com
The benefits of research
1. Be informed about the topic
The term “research” may conjure memories of schoolwork or science or other unpleasant past experiences. But if you think of research as simply leaning in on your curiosity, it will feel easier and more interesting.
Leave A Comment