Perks of Being an Author: Why Authorship is More Than Just Words

Becoming an author is a dream that countless people nurture deep within. It’s more than just putting words on paper—it’s about sharing your voice, telling your story, and leaving a mark on the world. But the perks of being an author go beyond the satisfaction of seeing your name on the cover. From personal growth to the deep connections formed with readers, the life of an author is full of surprising and deeply fulfilling rewards.

Let’s explore some of these hidden perks that many authors discover along the way.

 

1. Creative Freedom: Express Your Unique Voice

One of the biggest perks of being an author is the creative freedom it offers. When you write, there are no rules. You get to shape worlds, breathe life into characters, and weave stories that only you can tell. Writing provides the opportunity to explore themes and ideas that matter to you—whether it’s delving into fantasy, history, or sharing personal experiences.

“Writing isn’t about making money, getting famous, getting dates, or making friends. In the end, it’s about enriching the lives of those who will read your work, and enriching your own life, as well.”  – Stephen King

Writing also offers a therapeutic outlet for emotions and experiences. It’s common for authors to find clarity and peace as they process events from their own lives through their writing. Research has shown that expressive writing can improve mental well-being, offering a space for authors to reflect and heal.

2. Authority and Credibility: Position Yourself as an Expert

Writing a book can instantly elevate your status as an expert in your field. Whether you’re crafting fiction or nonfiction, your book is a testament to your knowledge and dedication. It opens up doors to new opportunities – speaking engagements, interviews, consulting roles, and more.

Brené Brown, a renowned author and researcher, has seen her books on vulnerability and courage transform her into a global thought leader. She explains, “When we deny our stories, they define us. When we own our stories, we get to write a brave new ending.” By writing her books, she not only shared her expertise but also inspired countless readers to embrace vulnerability.

As a published author, your voice carries weight. You’ll likely find yourself in demand for your insights and advice, whether in media appearances, podcasts, or professional settings.

3. Personal Growth: Sharpen Your Mind

Writing is a powerful tool for personal growth. The process of creating a coherent and compelling narrative requires you to think critically, organize your thoughts, and develop discipline. This mental challenge helps sharpen your mind and enhances your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

“The most important thing we learn at school is the fact that the most important things can’t be learned at school.”  – Haruki Murakami

Writing also pushes you to grow in unexpected ways. Authors often mention how the writing process helped them develop patience and persistence—qualities that are just as valuable in everyday life as they are in the world of literature.

4. Connection with Readers: Build a Community

One of the most rewarding parts of being an author is the bond you build with your readers. Your words, ideas, and stories have the power to touch lives. Whether it’s through heartfelt emails, social media exchanges, or meeting readers at events, this connection is deeply fulfilling.

Neil Gaiman once shared his thoughts on the magic of writing: “The world always seems brighter when you’ve just made something that wasn’t there before.” As an author, you create something from nothing, and in doing so, you touch the hearts and minds of your readers, building a lasting community around your work.

This sense of connection goes beyond mere fandom. Readers look to authors for guidance, inspiration, and even friendship. Knowing that your words have resonated with someone can be one of the most meaningful parts of an author’s journey.

5. Financial Rewards: Multiple Streams of Income

While writing isn’t always about making money, it can certainly provide financial benefits. Authors today have numerous ways to monetize their craft beyond traditional book sales. Royalties from book sales are just the beginning.

Many authors also earn income through speaking engagements, offering workshops, or freelancing. As Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love, put it: “I think a creative life is the most wonderful life and I feel lucky that I’ve been able to build one.”

For many authors, writing opens up multiple income streams:

• Royalties: Even years after publication, royalties from book sales can provide steady income.
• Speaking Engagements: Published authors are often invited to share their expertise at conferences, workshops, and events.
• Workshops and Courses: Authors can also offer writing workshops, courses, or consulting services related to their books.

With the growth of self-publishing and digital platforms, the financial opportunities available to authors today are greater than ever before.

6. Legacy: Leave a Mark on the World

As an author, you have the unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy. Your words can inspire, inform, and entertain generations to come. Books have a way of outliving their creators, making an impact long after the author has moved on.

As Maya Angelou says, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” Writing gives you the chance to share that untold story with the world. It allows you to contribute to the broader human experience, offering your perspective, knowledge, and creativity.

For many authors, this legacy is deeply personal. It’s about leaving something meaningful behind, a piece of themselves that will continue to resonate with others for years or even decades.

7. Opportunities for Collaboration: Expand Your Network

Writing doesn’t have to be a solitary pursuit. Authors often collaborate with editors, illustrators, agents, and fellow writers. These collaborations are not only creatively enriching but can also expand your professional network.

In the process of creating your book, you’re likely to meet people who inspire you and help push your work to new heights. Writers’ conferences, book fairs, and author meet-ups offer endless opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, forming lasting friendships and valuable professional relationships.

8. Fulfilment and Passion: Do What You Love

At the end of the day, the greatest perk of being an author is the fulfilment that comes from doing what you love. Writing allows you to engage in a craft that brings joy, meaning, and purpose to your life. It’s an outlet for passion, creativity, and self-expression that few other professions can offer.

As Toni Morrison once beautifully said, “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” This quote perfectly captures the spirit of being an author. Writing gives you the power to create the world you wish to see and share it with others.

Conclusion: The Perks of Authorship Go Beyond Words

Being an author is a journey full of unexpected rewards. From the deep sense of fulfilment that comes from doing what you love, to the connections you make with readers and the lasting legacy you leave behind, writing offers far more than just the opportunity to publish a book.

So if you’ve been thinking about writing, now is the time to take that leap. The perks, both seen and unseen, are waiting for you—just beyond the first word.