Writing.Com General Discussion

For the better part of a year, I have almost daily planted myself in front of my laptop with the energy and excitement to begin writing creatively. Much to my frustration, most times I would simply abandon the task and find other work to do. Sometimes I would research ideas, read articles on how to start writing (most would focus on getting published instead of getting over the fear), and other times I would start a story only to close without saving. Most of my life I have written blogs or speeches or academic papers, so the process of creating words does not escape me.

A very short time ago I came here. I had decided that I simply needed to start. Start something. Anything really. One day I sat down and posted something after taking about 20 minutes to write it with no editing, fore or afterthought processes because I simply needed to take the first step and make it happen regardless of the quality of the post.

What I found here was good, honest, positive feedback. Encouragement to continue. Encouragement to go back and edit and refine. Encouragement to keep going. For this, I thank you..this community of professional and amateur writers. Every day now I write something. I don't post most of it because I don't want to flood my portfolio with half-baked ideas (plus I don't have the upgraded account yet), but I do write every day and that alone keeps the juices going.

So, again, I say thank you to everyone who gave me both encouragement and inspiration to keep going! You're all awesome!

William Stafford

What made you smile today? Hold on to that!