Why I Write

My first book was published in 1987, and at the time, I thought it was the first and last one of my career. Fast forward to 2025, and my count is at eighteen—or is it nineteen? I’ve lost track.

My feeling is that the only thing worse than writing a book is not writing a book. I seem to be constantly either writing a book, marketing a book, or thinking about what should be my next book.

Writing a book is an obsessive, all-consuming process. It’s painful, messy, and sometimes you wonder why you even started. Over the years, every single one of my books has felt impossible at some point (my latest one being Wiser Guy).

And yet, I keep coming back for more. For all you authors and would-be authors, allow me to share some insights into the process.

Write for the Right Reason

There are many reasons to write a book. Among them, the most common is the desire to achieve fame and fortune. However, only one reason matters: because you have something meaningful to say.

In my humble opinion, a book is a work of art. It is an end in itself, not a means to an end. If only people would embrace this high bar—there would be so much less crap out there.

Focus on the Value You’re Creating

When the writing gets tough, think about how your book can improve people’s lives. Whether it’s teaching someone how to be a better entrepreneur, leader, or person, I hope my work can make a difference. That thought keeps me going.

The book that I am writing now explains why and how to use Signal, the privacy-oriented messaging app. It’s not going to be lucrative. It might not even be popular. But for the people who need Signal, it might help them prevent incarceration or worse.

Embrace Doubt, but Don’t Let It Win

Every author doubts themself—it’s a rite of passage. I’ve doubted whether my ideas were good enough, whether anyone would care, and whether I was wasting my time. But doubt is just part of the process.

The trick is to acknowledge it without letting it paralyze you. I remind myself that even the best authors—people like Dan Heath and Julia Cameron—have faced the same struggles.

Writing isn’t about being fearless, it’s about pushing through the fear and doubt.

Find Joy in the Process

Writing isn’t just about the finished product—it’s about the journey. I’ve come to see writing as part of my skillset alongside podcasting and speaking. To tell me not to write is like telling a chef not to cook or an artist not to draw.

It’s a creative outlet that challenges me, frustrates me, and ultimately fulfills me. Sure, it’s hard, but it’s also deeply rewarding. Writing a book is one big shit sandwich, but it is a shit sandwich that I love.

Ask for Help When You Need It

No one writes a book alone. I’ve leaned on friends, colleagues, and even my social media followers to help me find stories, refine ideas, and fill in the gaps.

For Think Remarkable, I used tools like ChatGPT as a research assistant to uncover examples of people who made dramatic career shifts. And there’s Madisun…my co-author, who is a super power! Plus there are dozens of people who make hundreds of comments to my drafts.

Collaboration doesn’t just make the process easier—it makes the book better.

Remember the Bigger Picture

At the end of the day, writing a book is about more than just words on a page. It’s about sharing ideas, inspiring change, and leaving a legacy.

That’s why I keep writing, even when it’s painful. Maybe especially when it’s painful.

Because the world doesn’t need more silence—it needs more voices willing to share their information and inspiration.

So, if you’re thinking about writing a book, my advice is simple: start. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it!

Mahalo,

Guy