Skip to content

The best advice is not to write what you know, it’s to…

“The best advice is not to write what you know, it’s to write what you like. Write the kind of story you like best—write the story you want to read. The same principle applies to your life and your career: Whenever you’re at a loss for what move to make next, just ask yourself, “What would make a…” quote by Austin Kleon
Download Open image
““The best advice is not to write what you know, it’s to write what you like. Write the kind of story you like best—write the story you want to read. The same principle applies to your life and your career: Whenever you’re at a loss for what move to make next, just ask yourself, “What would make a better story?””

Austin Kleon

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Write what you love, treating life as a story you’d enjoy reading; let passion guide decisions.

In simple terms: Follow your interests in work and life.

Key Takeaway

Let passion shape your choices.

Themes

creativity self‑direction storytelling

Mood

motivational reflective

Type

advice creative

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • creative projects
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

authenticity intrinsic motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What story would you write for yourself?
  • How does passion align with practicality?
A Different Perspective

Passion may clash with market demands.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Austin Kleon

Explore all 204 Austin Kleon quotes

More Ask yourself quotes

Browse all 1,272 Ask yourself quotes