writer's corner

As a writing coach and editor, I’ve seen many manuscripts that neglect to include one of the major tenants of good storytelling:

Character Motivation

Motivation is the reason behind a character’s actions, decisions, and desires. In other words, it’s what drives your story forward. But it’s not that simple. Readers know it when it's there, but may not be able to identify exactly what's missing when a story falls flat.

We can say our characters want to accomplish certain goals because they look good on the surface and are noble goals. But that doesn’t give us any emotional depth to our story. It’s not going to be enough if you want a memorable, gripping story.

Our characters should conflicting desires that create inner turmoil. For example, imagine a character who dreams of professional success but also craves a loving family life. These competing goals make them more human and relatable. It also creates conflict.

Why is motivation so critical to a good story? It makes the characters real! Without clear motivation, characters feel flat, and their actions may seem random with no common thread tying them together. This conflict is not just a plot device but a mirror reflecting the complexity of human existence. We all wrestle with the tension between what we want and what we need, between our ambitions and our emotional truths. It’s this relatability that pulls us, as readers, into the character’s

journey, creating empathy and connection.

Internal conflict also fuels character growth. A protagonist navigating these struggles isn’t merely reacting to external forces; they are evolving, questioning, and redefining their values and priorities. This evolution keeps the story dynamic. Readers are invested in seeing not just what the character will do but who they will become. The unresolved tug-of-war within them creates the emotional stakes that drive a story forward, and the result is unforgettable fiction.