Section 1.1: Overcoming Self-Doubt

Initially, writing served as a therapeutic escape for me. I still possess a Google Docs file that spans over 20 pages, containing years of self-reflection and some rather audacious middle school essays. (Every teenager has their angsty moments, right?)

Throughout my youth, I developed a mindset that hindered my growth. It convinced me that if my work wasn't flawless, it should be kept hidden until it was. This mindset disrupted my creative flow, ultimately leading to my giving up. After all, isn’t it preferable to hold back rather than risk criticism or, even worse, humiliation?

Interestingly, this behavior persisted during my time in art school, where I often left pieces unfinished if they didn't meet my standards, or worse, destroyed them. I struggled with completing projects, unaware that this habit was stunting my progress.

However, I received valuable advice during those art school years: “Take a break, step back from your work, and return with fresh eyes.” This principle applies to writing as well. I believe it should be integral to the creative process.

I found solace in writing during moments of anxiety or frustration. I wrote when I felt misunderstood or when I needed help but couldn’t voice it. This personal writing journey revealed that when writing for oneself, the pressure of perfectionism dissipates—at least in the beginning. You might revisit your work later to fix minor errors, but the absence of pressure is liberating. This realization was immensely beneficial for me.

Section 1.2: The Job That Changed Everything

Then came my job opportunity. They were in search of someone with writing proficiency. Although the field was entirely new to me, I met most of their criteria and ultimately secured the position.

For nearly two years, I immersed myself in a variety of topics, enjoying the freedom to explore—freedom in terms of time, creativity, and knowledge. I attribute my current writing endeavors to that experience, as I ventured into keyword research, article writing, and social media content, all of which I truly enjoyed.

Section 3.1: The Transformative Power of Writing

Sharing this part of my journey highlights how writing has been instrumental in my ongoing process of self-discovery. I urge you to embrace your writing journey, whether you are navigating a career change, facing personal challenges, or simply seeking an outlet for expression. Allow your words to flow. In the act of writing, we often uncover not just our narratives but also the essence of who we are. I write through it all, and you should, too!