Stories are everywhere. We see them in movies (though, let’s be honest, the quality for most is lousy) and in TV shows that we can watch with barely any effort. Sure, some of these stories move us, but more often than not, they’re just a way to pass the time.

Reading, on the other hand, is a completely different experience. When you dive into a good book, it’s immersive in a way that watching can’t quite match. Your imagination kicks into high gear as you picture the characters and settings. You’re not just along for the ride—you’re actively thinking about what might happen next, and you get emotionally invested in the plot and the characters. It’s like being a part of the story.

But then there’s writing, which takes things to a whole new level. Writing fiction isn’t just about imagining what happens next; it’s about crafting every detail yourself. You’re using your logic, analysis, memories, and emotions all at once. You’re figuring out what your protagonist wants, who’s going to stand in their way, and how the conflicts will unfold. You’re the one deciding if the characters are friends, enemies, or somewhere in between.

You think through all the possibilities and choose the path that feels both realistic and surprising. This is one of the highest, if not highest itself, forms of imagination and creativity and analysis and decision making.

Writing takes so much more mental and emotional energy than other activities. In fact, many writers find themselves speaking or even acting out parts of their stories, bringing a physical aspect to the process. Then there’s the revision phase, where you dive back in with fresh eyes, applying even more critical thinking and logic. The whole journey is engaging, challenging, and, best of all, incredibly enjoyable.

Great writing demands a lot of effort, but the rewards are immense. When you finish crafting a story you’re proud of, the sense of satisfaction is on another level—far beyond what you get from just watching or reading. It’s deeply meaningful. You’ve created something new, something exciting, and there’s no feeling quite like completing a well-written story. The process itself is a joy, but the payoff? It’s like elevating the whole experience to something truly special.