351: Is Authorship Worth It? | Azul Terronez

Exploring the Real Value of Writing Your Story with Azul Terronez

In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I explore a critical and sometimes overlooked question for aspiring writers: Why write a book? While the dream of bestseller status or financial gain is tempting, I challenge listeners to think deeper. Through personal stories, hard truths about book sales, and my journey, I reveal that the value of authoring a book goes far beyond money or external validation.

Authorship in a World Saturated with Information

I begin by acknowledging a shift in how we value information. Decades ago, knowledge was scarce—you had to hunt down an expert or a library to find answers. Today, with the click of a button, nearly any fact or technique is instantly accessible. This abundance means that simply writing what you know is no longer as compelling or necessary as it once was.

Instead, I urge authors to focus on “why” their stories and perspectives matter. In a world that’s drowning in information, what stands out is not just the facts, but your unique interpretation—why you care, and why the reader should too.

The True Wealth of Writing: Creativity and Self-Discovery

I make a bold assertion: writing a book isn’t for the reader first—it’s for you, the author. The process of writing is an act of creativity, a way to tap into a deeper, more present sense of self. I liken it to the flow state artists achieve, losing track of time while being utterly immersed in their work.

Writing becomes a form of self-discovery. It allows you to clarify your thoughts, uncover hidden motivations, and transform your understanding of who you are. Even if your book never tops a bestseller list, the act of writing itself holds immeasurable value. As I point out, “If you’re not growing and transforming in the writing of the book, how do you expect the reader to?”

Moving Past Fear and the Reluctant Writer’s Gift

Fear is a constant companion for many would-be authors. Whether it’s the fear of criticism, bad reviews, or simply the vulnerability of sharing your story, these anxieties hold many back. I encourage listeners to push through these doubts, reminding us that as adults, we no longer need to shrink from the opinions of others.

I also share that some of the most compelling writers are not the ones who were star students or English majors, but the reluctant writers—the ones who have something meaningful to say, even if their confidence or skills haven’t always matched up. The essence of a great book often lies in this genuine desire to contribute, not just in technical brilliance.

Shifting the Metric of Success

Too often, the success of a book is measured purely in sales, awards, or status symbols like the New York Times Bestseller list. But I dismantle these myths, revealing that these metrics can be bought, manipulated, or simply fail to reflect the true impact of a book.

Instead, I advocate for a personal definition of success. For me, the real return on writing my first book wasn’t revenue—it was the realization that I could forge a creative, independent life, travel the world, and inspire others. I urge others to define wealth not just by numbers on a spreadsheet, but by the opportunities for growth, adventure, and contribution that authorship can bring.

Take the Leap: Your Story Matters

As the episode closes, I call on listeners to stop waiting. That untold story in your heart is there for a reason. The time to take action is now—write your book, share your perspective, and redefine what success looks like for you.

In a world of easy information and noisy metrics, your story, well told for your growth, just might be the spark that changes your life and inspires others.

Join us again next week for more captivating insights from influential authors and publishing experts. Remember to subscribe to Authors Who Lead and visit our website for more show notes and past interviews.

That’s all for this week. If you have a message inside of you that needs to be written, today is the day to start. Don’t delay—take action.