You Are a Writer (So Start Acting Like One) by Jeff Goins.

Here’s the opening to Jeff Goins’ new book. See if this resonates with you.

“We are all hoping something we do in this world matters. That what we create will stay with people forever. As Steve Jobs, the infamous founder of Apple Computers, once said, we all long to “put a dent in the universe. To leave some kind of impact on this ball of dirt.”

I was hooked by this introduction and read the whole of Jeff’s book, devouring the content in less than 2 days. If you are a writer, or aspire to write, this is must-read material. Even if you are putting a dent in the universe in some way other than writing, the philosophy of this book will inspire you.

Here are 3 reasons I recommend this ebook.

1. It’s a contemporary take on how to pursue a creative dream in a world where social media siphons our time. Jeff suggests ways to enjoy the positives of participating while not whiling away all our discretionary time and energy in the land of social media. With the comparatively recent rise of Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and so many other avenues to connect with each other, we could all use some guidance, right?

2. Jeff’s credentials earn him the right to advise us. He is already a successful writer with a large blog following and 2 ebooks. He’s built a platform, formed a tribe, created a network, shared his expertise, and sold his writing. He tells what worked and what didn’t. He clearly conveys the things he found out by trial and error so that we can skip over some of trials.

3. He approaches his craft not for profit but for love of his craft. He writes: “I’ve learned the secret of writing for the love of it. And I’m going to share it with you.” He gets to the part of the book where he gives many tools and examples and step-by-step instructions, but the majority of the book is about why we create, facing our fears that keep us from creating more often, and living the dream.

The dream is one we can all embrace: “Become who you are.” If that’s a writer, proudly say you are a writer. If it’s something else, proudly go after it.

This book will move you to pursue your goals. “And who are you? A writer, if you’ll believe it. I hope you do, because we need your voice. We need your message.”

Whether it’s your voice the world needs, or your photographs, your scrumptious cupcakes, your lovely watercolor renderings, your expressive music – whatever it is, pursue it. Call yourself a writer. Call yourself an artist. Call yourself a musician. Because Jeff is certainly right about this: We need your message. And this book will inspire you to craft your message.

You Are a Writer is available here. Jeff Goins’ blog contains a wealth of information, too. Check it out here.