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Inspirational articles were once limited to self-help and religious publications, but they are just about everywhere now. (Think about those wildly popular "Chicken Soup" books or most of the stories in Reader's Digest, for example.) This type of article can be very useful in newsletters, especially when you are trying to motivate readers to act.
Well-written inspirational articles move people emotionally and motivate them to do something or to make a change of some sort. You can use these articles to motivate readers to contact you, try your product or service, volunteer, write letters of support, attend an event, or make a contribution. Good inspirational articles have four characteristics.
1. They are personal.
Inspirational articles are all about the power of personal connections. They should include very personal stories about real people's lives. Don't shy away from the emotion, as strong and powerful feelings are central to good inspirational articles. You aren't speaking to your readers' minds with these articles; you are speaking to their hearts and souls.
2. They involve an emotional struggle or challenging decision.
Clearly describe the struggles, obstacles, or difficult choices that the people in your article have faced. How did they recognize the problem, deal with it, and overcome it?
3. They include a universal message.
Inspirational articles usually end with an epiphany. They enlighten us or remind us about the essential nature or meaning of some element of our daily lives. These are often very simple lessons -- the importance of family and friends, the joy in giving, the danger in stereotypes, or the value in facing our fears, for example.
Your inspirational articles must always be true. It is OK to change the names or locations; just state that you have done so. Making up stories to play on your readers' emotions is unacceptable. If you are caught telling lies, you will destroy any trust your readers had in you and your organization.
What would make a good inspirational article for your organization? Think about the stories from work that you tell your friends and family. Consider interviewing a person whose life has changed dramatically as a result of your organization. The moments that inspire you to do the work you do will likely inspire your readers too.
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