Writing a Book Could Help you Live Longer

THE NEXT CHAPTER: 

Weekly Tips for Writing & Publishing Your Bestselling Book

A fascinating study came out of Cornell University recently, which made me think of every single one of you writers.

Researchers gave 1,200 students $400 with simple instructions: Use this money "to pursue what matters most." No strings attached. 

Eight weeks later, the students scored significantly higher on every measure of well-being, from sense of purpose and belonging, to feeling needed and useful. The money itself wasn't the magic; it was articulating and acting on their purpose that made the difference.

This is exactly what happens when you commit to writing. 

Take Jo, an author who completed the Spring 2025 Cohort of Your Bestselling Book. Ever since going through a long and lawsuit-ridden divorce and custody battle with her psychologically abusive ex-husband who was a gambling addict, she’d been suffering from depression and insomnia. 

But once Jo began to articulate her purpose through writing, everything shifted. The days she made progress on her book were the days she felt most alive. She shared her story not only to reframe her narrative from one of victim to hero, but also to help other women trapped in emotionally abusive relationships to escape. Her suffering now has meaning. Her voice is her purpose.

Writing your book isn't just about building your brand. It's about discovering and articulating your purpose in a way that serves others. Because purpose—especially the kind that flows through writing—is almost always altruistic. You write to heal yourself, yes, but also to light the path for others walking similar dark roads. 

Whether you’re an executive who writes about ethical leadership after witnessing corporate corruption, or a mother who shares her journey through her child’s illness to help other parents cope, your book becomes a bridge from your own transformation to someone else's journey.

According to my dear friend Chip Conley, the founder of the Modern Elder Academy, Richard Leider, who teaches about purpose, distinguishes between big "P" Purpose (what's on your LinkedIn profile) and small "p" purpose (those daily acts of meaning that define who you really are). Your book can be both. 

In writing, you can both make a big declaration about the power of your life's work and discuss the small daily practices that simply help you show up. All you have to do is start writing, and you begin your journey towards what matters most.

What's the purpose that's been whispering to you through your book idea? Hit “Reply” and tell me.

Aloha, 

MeiMei

TIP OF THE WEEK:

Craft Your Purpose Statement

Before you write another word, complete this sentence: "I'm writing this book to help [specific people] who struggle with [specific challenge] to [specific transformation]." 

Make this statement personal by thinking of one actual person you want to help. That's your north star. Every chapter, every story, every piece of wisdom in your book should serve that purpose. 

Post it above your computer and read it every morning before you write.