What is so interesting about giving is not only that it pays, but that it pays in such unexpected ways. — Bob Burg
If you’re serious about becoming a great writer who not only publishes but truly connects, inspires, and transforms, here’s one countercultural truth you need to embrace early on: Give more. Want less. This mindset could reshape your entire writing journey.
Shift from Transaction to Contribution
Many new writers start with a strong desire to “get” something: Get published. Get noticed. Get a book deal. Get followers or sales. But this approach can lead to constant comparison, disappointment, and burnout.
Instead, flip the script. Ask yourself: “What can I give through my writing today?” Can you offer insight? Humor? Healing? Hope? When your writing becomes a gift—not a transaction—you’ll find greater purpose and fulfillment, even when external rewards are delayed.
Focus on the Reader, Not the Reward
When you’re constantly thinking, Will people like this? Will it sell?, you risk losing the authenticity of your voice. Wanting less doesn’t mean abandoning your dreams. It means detaching your self-worth from outcomes.
Write with the reader in mind: What do they need? How can your story, article, or poem lift them up? What wounds might your words help heal?
Giving more means showing up fully with generosity, honesty, and heart. You’ll not only write better—you’ll serve better.
Pour Yourself into the Craft
Aspiring writers often look for the shortcut to success. They want the bestseller without the rewrites, the recognition without the rejection. But giving more means: Studying the craft of writing. Reading broadly. Rewriting deeply. Listening humbly to feedback.
Mastery takes time, but every sentence you shape with love and discipline is an offering to the reader—and to your future self.
Build Relationships, Not Just a Platform
Social media can tempt writers to focus on followers, likes, and algorithms. But real growth comes from genuine relationships. Give more by: Encouraging fellow writers. Sharing others’ work without expectation. Answering questions from beginners. Thanking readers who take time to engage.
Wanting less attention for yourself—and giving more support to others—paradoxically makes you someone others want to follow and work with.
Give More to the Page Before You Ask More of the World
Before you worry about agents, sales, or awards, ask yourself: “Have I given my best to the work itself?” The world is full of people wanting recognition. Fewer are willing to sow deeply before reaping anything at all. You can stand out by committing to the process, not just the outcome.
“Give more, want less” isn’t about lowering your standards. It’s about raising your integrity, your generosity, and your focus. As you give more of yourself to the page—and expect less from the world in return—you may just find the irony of creativity: The more you give, the more you end up receiving.
Give More, Want Less
By Frank Ball
I once met a writer who wanted to get.
He’d frown if his needs hadn’t all been met.
He pursued an agent and grabbed for the best,
But left disappointed, unfulfilled, without rest.
Then one day he learned—oh, what a delight—
That giving, not getting, is truly what’s bright.
For friendships and bonds that stand through the storm
Are built by kind hearts that are helpful and warm.
He changed his approach, flipped it right on its head,
Asking people for ways to help them, instead.
Not “What will you give?” or “What’s coming to me?”
But “How can I serve you? Just let me see.”
A thank-you, a smile, a warm word or two,
Can sparkle like stars in the friendships they glue.
For praise that’s sincere, not a hollow disguise,
Can shine like the sun in a publisher’s eyes.
So give what you can, and don’t count the score,
You’ll gain something greater—what hearts hunger for:
A love that is lasting, a bond that is true,
Help that comes back when it’s given through you.
For a practical guide to storytelling, check out Storytelling at Its Best
