As a writer, observation is not only a motivating factor for what is written, it is a critical part of the process. Even writers like myself who don’t subscribe to a stringent process religiously will find themselves responding to what is observed on a daily basis. Sticky notes, journals, notebooks, napkins, free space on an envelope; writers will use whatever we can get our hands on to document an idea, explore a fresh thought or record the awesome action we witnessed. Technology allows us to record our thoughts quickly with digitized note cards and such. Apps allow us to publish our content immediately while on the go.

As writers, we tend to follow the process that observation creates. A conversation with a friend about an interesting topic turns into a blog post. Listening to a song for the first time turns into an inspirational quote on Instagram or Twitter. Watching the news turns into a personal essay. Observation stimulates reflection. Reflection stimulates questions. Questioning leads to learning. Learning alters behavior. Behavior changes lead to growth. Growth creates a more mature wiser version of who God created us to be. A better version of ourselves triggers others to start their own process. And the cycle continues. So there it is.

Observation dictates the process. Whether we admit it or embrace it is up to each individual. As writers we are going to respond to this process. We have to, we cannot help it. It’s part of our DNA. To deny it is to deny who we are as writers. Where would the world be without the authenticity we deliver?

Don’t be surprised if you see pieces of yourself in an article, essay or book you read. Writers produce content that comes from observation and experiencing life. Most writers do not intentionally step on toes or seek to trigger a roller coaster for others (at least not all the time). We simply do what we are called to do and the world we live in influences who we are and the cycle we follow. Be yourself and contribute your part of the process. May the cycle continue.