As writers and creators, we often encounter larger-than-life figures who seem to have it all together. It’s easy to feel intimidated by their success and wonder if we could ever measure up.

These are the people who have built empires with their words and ideas. You see prolific authors like Stephen King, who has published over 60 novels, or Margaret Atwood, whose extensive work spans novels, poetry, and critical essays. Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” is another example of a first-try success. It was the author’s first novel and became a literary classic, winning the Pulitzer Prize and inspiring readers for generations.

It’s easy to look up to these legendary individuals as role models, admiring their discipline, dedication, and immense talent. You’d love for your first novel to go on to win a Pulitzer. But it’s important to remember that success doesn’t come without challenges and setbacks. Even those who seem to have it all together face their struggles. Lee was not immune to the pressures of success, and she struggled with writer’s block and the weight of expectation when attempting to write a follow-up novel.

Realize for a moment that they are just people in a long line of persons looking to tell their story, and we don’t truly understand what drove these figures to their success, how they reached the heights they did, or even how they felt about their legacy. It’s easy to imagine them as superhuman in their creativity and productivity, but the truth is often more mundane.

They likely struggled with self-doubt and imposter syndrome, just like the rest of us. We can admire their work and learn from their processes. Still, it’s also important not to set unrealistic expectations for ourselves based on an incomplete understanding of their lives and careers.

As we stand in awe of their accomplishments, it can be easy for the shadow of self-doubt to creep in. We may question our abilities, wondering if we’ll ever measure up to the people we admire. This can lead to unhealthy comparisons, where we become overly fixated on the differences between our creative work and that of our idols rather than celebrating our unique paths and creative journeys.

It’s important to be aware of the downsides of idolizing creative figures and to keep a healthy perspective on success and expectations. By understanding the dangers of always comparing ourselves to others and learning to celebrate our uniqueness, we can find inspiration in the successes of others without losing sight of our progress and potential.

The creative journey is rarely a walk in the park, and comparing ourselves to J.R.R. Tolkien or Virginia Woolf can make us feel like we’re just a bunch of amateurs. But here’s the catch: even these literary giants had peculiar work methods. So, before you start beating yourself up, look at how they did it.

J.R.R. Tolkien, the mastermind behind the intricate world of Middle-earth, wrote a whopping two to three pages a day. Yes, you read that right. The man who created an entire universe with his languages and history was no speed demon when it came to writing. So, if you feel like your novel isn’t coming along as quickly as you planned, just remember that slow and steady won the race for Mr. JRR.

Now let’s turn to Virginia Woolf, who tackled her writing with the discipline of a drill sergeant. This literary powerhouse spent hours each day crafting five pages of her beautifully intricate prose. And, She managed to juggle her writing alongside a busy social life and the demands of running a publishing house. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that even the greats had a lot on their plates.

I’m on a first-name basis with many creators who’d leave Tolkien and Woolf in the dust when pumping out results. Our modern, hyper-augmented creator era has made writing something of worth in record times much easier. And yet, you don’t see their names in any history books.

The takeaway here is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to creativity. Sure, you could try to mimic the habits of the greats, but there’s no guarantee it will work for you. The key is to embrace the quirks and peculiarities of your creative journey.

So, rather than trying to follow in the footsteps of literary giants, focus on the path that works best for you. Who knows, you might just create something extraordinary in the process. After all, every creative genius had to start somewhere, and they became great by staying true to their unique styles and processes. Embrace your quirks and let your creative flag fly – you never know where it may lead you.

I go on this tangent because I believe it doesn’t stem from envy or comparing yourself to others. I believe there’s a deeper-rooted fear here. You may not believe you’re saying something worth listening to (or reading), and I want you to know that I believe, from the bottom of my heart, that you truly are.

As I mentioned in this book’s introduction, when I was three years old, my father used to take me for walks at our farmhouse on the outskirts of Medellín. He would read the classics to me on those walks and instill some life lessons into my impressionable three-year-old mind.

I remember very clearly one time that leaned down and told me a line that would stick with me forever: “Books are movies you can watch in your head.” Those words struck a chord in my tiny heart and opened a new world. The idea that I could escape into fantastical realms or embark on thrilling adventures just by turning the pages of a book left me enchanted. It instilled a deep and abiding love for reading, which I cherish today. And in this attention-starved world, where most of us struggle to read even a single page, I believe this is the key to getting people to rediscover the joy of reading and unlock the door to a thousand worlds.

That simple yet profound childhood revelation stayed with me as I grew older, shaping my perspective on the value of books and the written word. Even as I’ve faltered at many points in my life, my (now) sizable library has always been the biggest mainstay in my life. Even becoming one of my defining traits as my acumen for research and going down rabbit holes has earned me a reputation as the fastest Googler in the West.

But it’s hard not to question whether people still find time to read in today’s fast-paced world, where scrolling through social media feeds and watching short-form videos seem to dominate our free time. I often ask if anyone bothers to read anymore, especially when I pour my heart and soul into writing an article, only to publish it and hear the proverbial crickets. It’s disheartening and, at times, downright soul-crushing.

However, in those moments of self-doubt, I try to remind myself of my father’s words and the power of the written word. Despite the sea of distractions surrounding us, there remains a deep hunger for meaningful, thought-provoking, and engaging content. There is still a place for the “movies we can watch in our heads,” The challenge lies in becoming a voice worth listening to, someone who can captivate and inspire readers to embark on their inner journeys.

One example that comes to mind when I think of truly captivating writing is Tom Junod’s “Can You Say…Hero?”—a remarkable Esquire magazine article about the late, great Fred Rogers, better known as Mister Rogers.

This profile piece, with its delicate prose and vivid storytelling, manages to transport the reader into the world of a man who dedicated his life to making a difference in the lives of children. As I read the article, I found myself tearing up with joy, completely immersed in the story and deeply moved by Mister Rogers’s profound impact on the people around him.

I am Colombian by birth, so it’s not like Fred Rogers played a big role in my upbringing. I was already an adult, and he was already dead, when I came to identify with this giant of a man.

“Can You Say…Hero?” is an article I return to every so often, even years after my first encounter. Each time, I find something new to appreciate, a fresh insight, or a tender moment that resonates with me on a deeper level. The piece is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact that well-crafted, heartfelt writing can have on its audience. It is proof that, in a world where our attention spans seem to be dwindling, there remains a space for stories that capture our hearts and inspire us to become better versions of ourselves. And it is this kind of writing that we, as creators, should strive to emulate in our work as we seek to become voices worth listening to in a world starved for genuine connection and meaning.

In a world of sound bites, tweets, and TikToks, you might wonder if the age-old tradition of reading books or indulging in art has lost its appeal. However, the reality is quite the contrary. Books and art possess a unique and enduring power that sets them apart from the ephemeral nature of short-form content.

This is something I often bring up in my professional environment. Each medium holds with it a challenge unique to itself. It’s very different to share a meme versus publishing an article or a video. Each paints a particular part of the picture that is your underlying point.

When you immerse yourself in a book or a captivating piece of art, you experience depth and nuance often lacking in the rapid-fire, condensed content you consume daily. While there is certainly value in bite-sized information, the comprehensive nature of books and the emotional impact of art allows you to explore topics in greater detail, offering a richer understanding of the world around you. These high-investment media are not just a means of acquiring knowledge or being entertained but a doorway to a more profound connection with the subject matter at hand.

When you set aside time to connect with a piece on a deeper level, you are invited to engage with the creator’s perspective, follow complex arguments, and consider alternative viewpoints. This process encourages you to question your assumptions, challenge your biases, and empathize with those with different beliefs. In an increasingly polarized world, books and art offer a much-needed space for reflection and growth.

The sustained and focused attention required by them enables you to develop a deeper understanding of the issues at hand. This, in turn, empowers you to engage in more meaningful conversations and take well-informed actions in your life and communities.

This is my call to action and words of reassurance for those questioning whether it’s worth it to undertake such a challenging quest. Far from waning in today’s attention-starved world, the power of holding your beholder captive with your story offers a respite from the constant bombardment of information and a means to connect more deeply with the world and yourself. As a creator, your challenge is to harness the enduring power of these “higher” forms of communication and inspire your audience to embrace the transformative potential of the written word and artistic expression.

So, the question remains: how do you become a voice that people want to listen to? The answer is not simply about mastering tips and tricks; it goes much deeper than that. It is about cultivating a presence that resonates with your people and embodies a certain magnetic and relatable authenticity.

To become a voice worth listening to, you must first find your unique perspective. Easier said than done. This may take time, introspection, and experimentation, but it is essential to establish your creator identity. Your voice should reflect your experiences, beliefs, and values while being open to growth and change. By embracing your individuality, you can offer fresh insights and perspectives that set you apart from the masses.

Becoming a voice worth listening to isn’t just about sharing your thoughts and ideas. It’s also about building genuine connections with people in a way that doesn’t come off as just a transaction like most creators out there seem to be doing when they refer to us as “Gang” or “Army.” These genuine connections mean engaging with them, actively listening to their feedback, and fostering an ongoing conversation. To do this well, you should strive to approach the people that root for your success with empathy, humility, and a willingness to learn and grow together.

Never underestimate the power of a good story. Humans are hardwired to respond to narratives that evoke emotion and create a sense of connection. By weaving your insights and ideas into compelling stories, there’s nothing quite like a tug of the heartstrings to get people resonating on a deeper level with your work and leaving a lasting impact in a way that feels present in their lives.

Becoming a voice worth listening to is not an overnight achievement. It requires patience, persistence, and a commitment to honing your craft. But as you go along your life seeding ideas and helping other people, you will find that your voice becomes increasingly influential and indispensable in the hearts and minds of those who choose to listen.

But then you have to worry about leaving your mark on history. Don’t you?

In the small Spanish town of Mejorada del Campo, Justo Gallego pursued an extraordinary dream. With no formal architectural training or financial support, this humble former monk committed himself to building a cathedral by hand, brick by brick. Over more than five decades, his dedication, passion, and resilience transformed a seemingly impossible idea into a reality.

Justo’s journey began with the simple desire to create a place of worship. He set out to learn about construction and architecture, patiently teaching himself through trial and error. As he experimented with different techniques, he developed a unique style that melded traditional and modern elements, making his cathedral a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Year after year, Justo persisted, even as his contemporaries met his project with doubt and criticism. Yet, through his unwavering commitment to his vision, something remarkable happened. His determination captivated those around him, and gradually, his community began to rally behind him, offering support in various forms.

With the help of his neighbors, friends, and even strangers who believed in him, Justo’s cathedral grew taller and more impressive. Its arches and towers rose against the sky, a testament to the power of a single man’s dream and the community that embraced it.

As the cathedral took shape, it became a beacon, drawing visitors from afar. People marveled at the intricate details, the towering spires, and the love and dedication that had gone into every brick. Justo’s story began to spread, and his cathedral symbolized what can be achieved when passion meets persistence.

I used to be obsessed with artisans and craftspeople across the globe. Even taking “pilgrimages” to Turkey, Greece, and Spain to meet some of the best this world has ever seen. Justo was one of them, and I had the privilege of meeting him before his passing in 2021. And what did this outstanding man have to say to me? - “What did they feed you in Colombia? You’re so tall and bearded!”

When making history, do you believe that honing your craft is enough? Or is it the fusion of technical mastery and purpose that truly leaves a lasting impact? I used to believe I could “get good” in whatever I set out to do with my life, and the accolades, success, and fame would come naturally. Boy, was I wrong.

I was wrong because I believed you could achieve mastery only by doing the job repetitively. Putting in the 10,000 hours, and *poof*, I’d be world-class at something. That notion has since left me, as I understood that no matter how much time and effort I put into a certain skill, true mastery comes from understanding not only the how but the why, when, and what.

In your quest to make history, how much time have you dedicated to developing your craft? Have you pushed the boundaries of your abilities, explored new techniques, and sought to improve constantly? How much of that time have you spent contrasting the opposing teachings from equally as admirable mentors? The road to standing outcomes from understanding that it’s not about reaching the top of a leaderboard but carving out a path deep and long enough that other people can follow it besides you.

What message do you hope to convey? How can you use your skills to inspire change, create unity, or spark thought? Here’s the key to your impact, by fusing your expertise with a clear sense of purpose, you create a magnetic force that will allow you to leave that indelible mark on the world you desire.

But do you believe that making history is a solitary pursuit? Or is collaboration the key to unlocking new perspectives and ideas that can elevate your work? As you embark on this journey, think about how connecting with others who share your vision and passion can empower you to grow and thrive.

The tale of Justo and his cathedral is a reminder that even the most improbable dreams can come true when we commit ourselves to our passions and cultivate our skills. But equally important is the role of those who stand by our side, offering support and encouragement along the way.

The cathedral itself loses all relevance when contrasted with the man who gave his life in building it. It may stand the test of time, and Angel (Justo’s apprentice) has taken charge of continuing his mentor’s mission past the grave, but that building has gone on to mean a lot more than what its original creator set out to create, it represents Justo’s dream, not just any place of worship. Can you make history without the belief and backing of others? When you awaken the minds of the people around you, you might just find that making history becomes a shared endeavor, one that leaves a lasting impact on the world beyond your wildest dreams.