Well I suppose I've always enjoyed creating things as well as telling stories.   In 1995, I got heavily involved in software development.  I was particularly interested in game development.  When you create games you have control over the world of the game.   You can set the gravity to anything you want.  You can make the hero survive a fury of bullets and still have energy to save the fair maiden.  In the same sense,  writing a book give you complete control of the characters world; and that's interesting concept think about.   In 2002, I became involved in creating movies.  It fun to see a story go from a simple script to something that you can see and hear.  Movies are a great way to experience the vision of the story.  However, the written word always has a special place.  When reading, the reader can imagine for themselves the world in which the story takes place.   I think that reading leaves a strong impression or attachment to story that other media doesn't produce.

Summary:

Games are Interactive stories

Movies are Immersive Stories

Books are Imaginative Stories 

That's what influences me.