The Book You WANT To Write vs. The Book You Are MEANT To Write: A Journey of Serendipity

"I still remember the day I sat down at my cluttered desk, the sun streaming through the window, illuminating the stacks of notebooks filled with ideas, snippets of conversations, and half-finished plots. With a steaming cup of coffee by my side, I was ready to write the book I had always envisioned—a sweeping fantasy epic filled with dragons, adventure, and a heroine destined to save the world. I had been dreaming about this story for years. But as the words flowed onto the page, I felt an unsettling tug at the back of my mind, whispering that perhaps this wasn't the book I was meant to write.

Serendipity is a curious thing. It often nudges us in unexpected directions, sometimes when we least expect it. For me, that nudge came in the form of an old friend I hadn't seen in years. While catching up over lunch, she shared her struggles with mental health and how she had turned to writing as a form of therapy. I was captivated by her vulnerability and honesty. As I listened, I began to realize that my own experiences with mental health had shaped me in ways I had never fully explored in my writing. The conversation stirred something deep within me, prompting me to reflect on my own story.

That evening, I put aside the fantasy epic and started writing a memoir, sharing my journey through anxiety and depression. It felt like diving into the depths of the ocean, the current pulling me into uncharted waters. Initially, I resisted this shift. Who would want to read about my struggles? I had envisioned grand dragons and epic battles, not the quiet battles of self-doubt and fear. Yet, as I wrote, I began to uncover a deeper purpose—my story was not just mine; it was a narrative many could relate to, a testament to resilience and healing.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson about the difference between writing the book I wanted and the book I was meant to write. The book I wanted was born from my desire for escapism, a creative outlet that allowed me to build entire worlds from scratch. However, the book I was meant to write emerged from authenticity and vulnerability, addressing real issues that many people face but often go unspoken.

Serendipity often plays a crucial role in this process. It’s the chance encounter that sparks a new idea, the unexpected piece of advice that changes your perspective, or the moments of clarity that arise from simply being present. Writing the book you are meant to write requires openness to these serendipitous moments and the courage to embrace them, even if they lead you away from your original vision.

As I delved deeper into my memoir, I discovered that vulnerability is a powerful tool in storytelling. Readers connect with honesty and authenticity; they want to feel seen and understood. The process became therapeutic, allowing me to reflect on my past while also providing a roadmap for others who might be navigating similar struggles.

Now, as I look back at that initial desire to write a fantasy epic, I realize that it was not a wasted effort. It was a stepping stone, a foundation that shaped my writing journey. Sometimes, the book we want to write serves as a catalyst, paving the way for the book we are truly meant to create." - Narration

So, if you find yourself at a crossroads, consider what your heart is whispering to you. Be open to the possibilities that arise from chance encounters and moments of inspiration. You may just find that the book you are meant to write is waiting for you, ready to emerge from the depths of your imagination, shaped by your unique journey and the serendipitous moments that have defined you along the way.

As you embark on your writing journey, remember that both the book you want to write and the book you are meant to write can coexist. Embrace both paths, for they are intertwined in ways that can lead to profound growth and connection. You never know where serendipity will take you, but if you allow it, it might just lead you to the heart of your story.