Why You Must Craft an Author Mission Statement

I spent 15 years as the Public Relations Manager for a local non-profit. Well-run non-profit organizations operate from the basic tenets stated in their mission statements. Often no more than 5 or 6 lines, mission statements set forth the course for an organization. Actions, messages, fundraising, even how team members speak about their organization flow from the carefully crafted words contained in the mission statement.

Essentially, I was the chief storyteller for the non-profit. Every word I wrote, whether a social media post, grant narrative, or industry article, reflected the mission statement. That practice - and it took practice - ensured that the stories I did tell, which helped elevate the organization’s onine and in-person presence - were in lockstep with the stated purpose of what the organization did, who they served, and how they did it.

Mission statements aren’t exclusive to non-profit organizations. In the realm of writing, authors are architects, constructing worlds and narratives that captivate and resonate with readers. Amid the creative process, the author mission statement is a vital tool that provides the clarity that guides writers on their literary journey.

Let's explore why crafting an author mission statement is crucial and how it can shape your writing endeavors.

Understanding the Author Mission Statement

An author mission statement is a concise declaration that encapsulates the core purpose, values, and objectives driving your writing. Similar to mission statements for organizations, it provides writers with a clear sense of direction and identity. It prompts reflection on the essence of your book and its central message, themes, and intended audience.

Importance of Clarity and Focus

In the expansive landscape of literary creation, clarity and focus are essential. Crafting an author mission statement compels writers to distill their intentions and aspirations into a succinct declaration. It serves as a strategic roadmap, ensuring coherence and resonance with readers.

Ensuring Coherence and Unity

Without a guiding beacon, writers risk losing sight of their book's central premise and core themes. An author mission statement acts as an anchor, keeping your narrative grounded and cohesive. Each chapter finds its place, contributing to the tapestry of your overarching vision.

Embracing Purpose

At the heart of every great endeavor lies a sense of purpose, a driving force that propels us forward. Crafting an author mission statement instills intentionality into your writing journey. It serves as a constant reminder of why you decided to commit to writing your book.

Empowering Aspiring Authors

Crafting your author mission statement is a journey of self-discovery and creative empowerment. By reflecting on your values, aspirations, and the central message of your book, you can distill your intentions into a concise declaration. With an author mission statement as your guide, you possess the tools to navigate the literary landscape with clarity, focus, and purpose.

Conclusion

Crafting an author mission statement is not merely an exercise in words. It’s a transformative journey of self-discovery and creative empowerment. Embrace the power of clarity, focus, and purpose as create your author mission statement.

Not sure where to start? I’ve created a workbook for you to document your intentions for your book - what it is about, who it will serve, why you decided to write it. Included in this resource are opportunities to share important aspects of your “why,” such as your core values, target audience, central message, and more.

Let this guide be your tool to create the potential to inspire, enlighten, and transform lives.

As you embark on your writing journey, may your words resonate with passion, purpose, and profound meaning. Downlod my AUTHOR MISSION STATEMENT WORKBOOK, and start crafting your unique author mission statement today.

Even if you’ve already started writing, it’s not too late. I promise you it will provide clarity and keep you on track with telling the exact story you intend to share with your future readers.

Happy writing!