As an angsty teenager, I filled journal upon journal with my thoughts, feelings, and dreams. Inside these journals were words that I didn’t want to share with a living soul.
Fast forward to today, I blog about these thoughts and feelings and then share… publicly. I’m sure that I self-censor more than that journal.
However, I blog about topics that make me feel uncomfortable. Discomfort is how I know that I’ve written in my uniquely authentic voice. The voice in which I strive to write.
Here’s why sharing doesn’t feel scary. I want to do the following:
- Debunk social media myth. Social media tends to perpetuate this myth that everyone lives in a magical world of rainbows and kick-ass vacations. People don’t typically share the hard stuff, the real-life stuff. I believe in the power of sharing real-life stuff.
- Find personal insights and clarity. At 41, I’m still both getting to know myself and learning to accept what I see. Also, I sometimes struggle with having a melange of thoughts of feelings swirling around in my head. Writing helps me find clarity in situations like this.
- Drive accountability. Who doesn’t want to become a better version of themselves? Operation Becky 2.0 requires accountability. Accountability keeps me from straying too far from the paths that I’ve shared.
- Find a tribe of like-minded souls. Sharing your vulnerabilities lets people know that they aren’t alone in their struggles, hopes, and fears. Connecting with others inspired my Grace Hopper Celebration (now rejected) submission. Blogging also encourages others to share their stories… in turn further working towards debunking social media.
- Personal Branding. I’ve enjoyed writing since I was a kid. I’d love to have a job that requires writing. Blogging shows my #extracreditkid aspirations and dedication to the craft.
When I feel an unease before hitting publish, my “why” provides any needed extra courage boost. My “why” also acts as a litmus test for whether I have a post worthy of being published. While my “why” varies from post to post, the above list sums up my primary blogging motivators.
So, what inspires you to write?