Day 15 of the 500-words daily writing challenge
So this challenge to write at least 500 words a day is about halfway done.
Jeff Goins suggested we (all the participants in the writing challenge) use this day to evaluate.
He asked, “How do you feel? Are you tired, worn out? Or more energized than ever?”
I’ll start there.
How do I feel?
I feel great!
Yeah, it has been a little tiring on some days, but mostly it has been inspirational. Is that the right word? I really feel like I’m getting back into the swing of things.
500 words are not really that many words, but meeting that goal every day (except one) has been encouraging to me. I know I can write, but sometimes the discipline to write consistently while in the middle of stressful situations can be overwhelming.
I’m making this a habit. I’m working on making this part of who I am. I like to write. I have the ability to write. Some have said I’m good at writing. But unless I actually write on a regular basis, my skills in this creative form of communication will stagnate.
I can tell I’m still rusty at this. I’m concerned I might lose some of my skills if I don’t stay in practice.
So the challenge has been a great encouragement.
Better, worse, or what-have-you?
Jeff Goins also asked, “Are you a better writer, or a worse one? What changes do you notice in your attitude, in your actions?”
I getting better. The “rust” is slowly fading. I’m feeling this amazing connection between the thoughts in my head and my hands on the keyboard. I see the words on the screen, and they’re saying what I mean to say.
I know communication is not complete until feedback occurs. So I am unsure if others truly read and understand what I’m trying to say. But as far as I’m concerned in this one-sided half-communication process, I’m able to express my thoughts and feelings well.
I’m also noticing the habit start to kick in. If I haven’t written yet, there’s part of me that says, I need to write.
Need. Yes, need to write. But I also want it. So that’s a great combination of needing and wanting.
One thing I have not achieved yet is “just write.”
It’s the idea of letting the words flow without editing as you go. I haven’t been able to do that yet. My editor kicks in every time I type a word or sentence that doesn’t perfectly say what I intend. Instead of leaving it alone and going on, I get the urge to fix it right then.
I think I know why that’s been a problem. I have been using this challenge to post something new on my blog every day. As a result, it does need some editing.
However, if I were to stick to Jeff Goins’ three bucket system, I might be able to truly do the “just write” thing.
His system allows for writing freely one day with editing on a future day. Right now my time is limited, so I’ve been combining writing and editing as I “pen” the words and post them on my blog.
I need to revisit the system and see if I can make it work within the challenge.
Hmm. Question: Will I continue this after the month is up?
I seriously hope so, I’m really enjoying writing and sharing my 500 words a day.
