What I Learned from the 30 Day Blog Challenge

I always hated writing. My whole life I avoided writing as much as possible. My poor dad heard me whine and complain every time I received a writing assignment. (He got even more lip from me if he was the one assigning.) Writing was never my thing and I was convinced it was from Satan himself. I loved reading, learning, and researching, but I never cared about writing - it always felt like a waste of time. I always knew writing was important but I never had the right perspective and never gave it my all.

Yesterday’s post completed the 30 day blog challenge. (I think the most difficult skills to learn are the ones we need to jump into with full force.) I chose to do the challenge early because I knew it was going to take longer than 30 days for me to develop great writing skills. Technically, I don’t have to do the challenge until Module 3 of the Praxis program, but I wanted to writing to be second nature by then. For that reason I’m going to continue to write every day.

I’ve learned a lot this past month and today I’m going to share it with you.

Commitment

I wrote about the power of commitment and determination several times this past month, mainly since it was at the front of my mind. There were some days where I had a crazy schedule and it wouldn’t be until 10:00 or 11:00 at night that I would begin writing. Those days were the most challenging and I would even admit my posts were of lower quality. Writing for 30 consecutive days isn’t easy, at times it was tempting to skip a day or write without trying my hardest. Sharing my commitments kept me determined and focused. I had to continue to question my character and challenge myself to push through.

Accountability Is Key

On the days I was tempted to give up, my strongest motivator was the eyes I had watching me. Not only did I have my friends and family watching, but the entire Praxis community. I’m extremely grateful for everyone’s input, encouragement and advice. I admit there was a time I refused to accept accountability for reaching my goals because to some level, it’s humiliating. But it’s humiliating in the best way. My community of Praxians, friends and family have helped me so much just by watching, it’s safe to say that this challenge wouldn’t have been completed without them. 

How To Fight Writer's Block

Close to none of my posts were planned and nearly all of them began without knowing the end. I saw a pattern form where I would write whatever came to mind and somehow that idea would evolve into another. The most effective way to fight writer’s block is by getting words on paper - no matter how poorly written at first. The first draft is essentially thinking on paper so getting your thoughts down is important. The second draft is when you organize and see that the rhythms flow.

I look forward to learning more as I continue to write daily. After this challenge I can honestly say that writing has become something I genuinely enjoy.