Writing for Yourself: The Power of Simplicity and Authenticity

The Audience: How Well Do We Really Know Them?
When we write, design, or create videos, we often focus on tailoring the message to our audience. But how well can we truly define them? Sure, research can help us get closer to understanding their interests and needs, but is it ever possible to know them fully? If we can’t pinpoint every detail, how do we ensure our work will resonate with our audience?

This week, as I read On Writing Well by William Zinsser, I encountered a thought-provoking paradox:

You must write for yourself.

This idea felt counterintuitive at first, even contradictory to everything I have been taught. But as I considered it, I began to understand Zinsser’s statement.

How Can Writing for Yourself Engage an Audience?
You might wonder, “If I only write for myself, how will my audience connect with it?” Zinsser’s answer is simple: you can’t control whether your readers will resonate with your writing style or humor. Writing for yourself doesn’t mean ignoring the audience – it means trusting that your authentic voice will attract those who appreciate it.

In “The Source of Bad Writing,” Steven Pinker argues that confusing prose often results from writers intentionally choosing unclear language. I know this firsthand: when I come across an article packed with complex jargon, I lose interest quickly. Writers sometimes forget that their readers aren’t experts on the subject and fail to clarify concepts or terminology. As a reader, I value simplicity and clarity – qualities that bring readers in rather than push them away.

Write Like You’re Speaking to a Friend
One piece of advice from Zinsser particularly resonated with me:

Never say anything in writing that you wouldn’t comfortably say in conversation.

In college, and even high school, I used large, complex words in my writing to sound more “academic.” I thought complexity meant quality. My goal was to impress teachers and professors with my vocabulary, but I often sacrificed meaning and clarity. Did my readers fully understand? When I re-read my work, did I even understand it?

Simplicity is Key
If readers struggle to grasp your message, they’re likely to stop engaging with your work. Crafting simple, clear sentences is an art that takes years to perfect, but it’s well worth the effort. Zinsser reminded me that if I lose my authentic voice and can’t make sense of my own words, I lose my purpose as a writer.

I’ll leave you with this thought: great writing isn’t about being complicated or overly polished. It’s about connecting with readers in a way that feels honest and easy to understand. So, write for yourself, stay true to your voice, and simplicity is often the most powerful choice.