Self-Exploration for Writers: My Life Experiences Related to Writing
By Norma J Hill (aka Pen And Paper Mama) ©2020

Welcome to a self-exploration series of exercises for writers: useful whether you are just thinking about writing, are a beginning writer, or are already an experienced writer. Explore what, for you personally, defines a writer, what kind of writer you are, what your writing goals are—and in the process, you will discover yourself as a writer. At the end of each post in the series, there is a link to a downloadable and printable PDF copy on which you can write your responses. Put them in a binder or duotang-type folder. Then, periodically along your writing journey, return to your answers, read what you noted previously, and add new thoughts and experiences. Through this self-exploration process, you’ll end up with a wonderful personal record of your writer’s journey.

1. Muses and Mentors
2. Reading that Inspires Me
3. Listening and Viewing
4. My Life Experiences Related to Writing
5. Inspiration and Dreams
6. Writing Formats and Focuses
7. My Writing Skills
8. My Readers/Audience
9. Preparing to Write

4. My Life Experiences Related to Writing

What aspects of your life experience—education, career, culture and beliefs, travel, family and friends, conversations—have led you to dream of being a writer? Jot them down in a list or (better yet) make a mind map brainstorming web (not sure how? Some good ideas and templates here: https://venngage.com/features/mind-map-maker or do a search; there are so many great options out there!)

Putting your exploration into practice:

Now use your notes/web to make a “writing resume.” Include all your experiences and training that make you realize you are a writer. Even little things count; add them to your resume. Post your writing resume on your author website, your LinkedIn page, and other places where you tell the world that you are a writer. Post a copy above your computer to remind and inspire yourself. Be sure to add to it as your writing experiences and training grow.

PDF LINK for this “My Life Experiences Related to Writing” exercise: Download, print, fill in your responses, and place them in your own “Self-Exploration for Writers” binder.