Revitalize Your Writing Journey: Embrace Growth Over Stagnation
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Chapter 1: Understanding the Writing Journey
If you've been engaged in online writing for two years and find yourself in a rut, this is for you. Many of us often hear the advice that emphasizes just starting as the key to success. We're often told to overcome our fears and take that leap. Quotes like "Don't let the fear of striking out hold you back" — Babe Ruth, or "Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day-in and day-out" — Robert Collier, seem to suggest that beginning is the main challenge.
However, after two years of writing, I can confidently state that starting is not the core issue.
Starting is merely a small step in a long journey.
Section 1.1: The Misconception of Starting
It's amusing to reflect on the time I believed starting was the main hurdle. I wish more aspiring writers would begin their journeys to discover that initiating is just a fraction of the challenge.
Starting is akin to taking the first step in a marathon, which comprises 62,926 steps for women. Imagine arriving at the starting line, taking that first step, and believing the race is over.
Why do we assume writing online is any different? Two years in writing is just one small step.
Subsection 1.1.1: A Humbling Encounter
Recently, I had an enlightening conversation with a seasoned writer. I expressed my frustrations after two years and sharing that I had penned 400 articles. The response? “That’s not much.” I was taken aback. Here I was, feeling accomplished, only to realize I still had a long way to go. Now, I'm approaching my 500th article.
Section 1.2: The Trap of Comparison
I often find myself caught up in stories of those who achieve rapid success. Just today, I read about someone who quit their job within 15 months of starting to write online, boasting thirty times my following. Naturally, this comparison can be disheartening.
But as a scientist, I know that sample sizes matter. By judging my progress based on one person, I am skewing my perspective. I lack a comprehensive dataset to determine my performance accurately.
In the end, this fixation only distracts me from focusing on my next piece.
Chapter 2: Refocusing Your Writing Goals
It's vital to concentrate on one primary objective if you've been writing online for two years: write more.
Improvement Through Exploration
This entails diving into more intriguing topics, discovering new approaches, and developing a distinct voice infused with your personality.
Better writing stems from sustained focus rather than fixating on potential successes or follower counts.
Finding Your Release Valve
Every pressured system requires a way to release tension. Without this, an explosion can occur, which benefits no one. Find your outlet—don't let external pressures overwhelm you.
In Conclusion
Always remember your purpose for writing. Reflect on what it brings you, regardless of external validation. Two years might seem like a long time, but in the broader context of your journey, it's just the beginning.
Look back a year—what were you producing then, and how satisfied were you with it? Progress can be hard to see when you're constantly looking forward.
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