What writing has taught me about life

 

So I’ve finally found my voice. It took long enough, but better late than never. I love to write and I love to teach others about technology. Blogging and writing book reviews is the perfect combination.

What writing has taught me about life:

1. It takes courage to follow your passion.
All along the way the naysayers will speak up loudly – you’re too old, you’re too late, why do you want to do that? And the list goes on. Ignore those voices and follow your heart.

I never really believed the expression, “do what you love and the money will follow.” It’s true. I’m not earning the income I was when I was a corporate vice president, but so what? I literally leap out bed every morning, excited to face the day. When I was immersed in the corporate world, I spent a lot of money (and time) on massages, fancy vacations and material things. All so I could escape my work. It never occurred to me to change my work instead.

2. Find people who will inspire you and cheer you on.
I have a wonderful network of people for each of my interests. Writing communities for my writing; I’ve become good friends with several authors and publicists. WordPress Wordcamp and Meetups for my blogging – both the writing aspect and the technical aspect. Exercise enthusiasts for my exercise, including exercise DVD reviews.

3. Keep at it.
When I started writing Amazon book reviews, I was ranked #2,200,000. Not exactly an auspicious start. But, I’m now ranked #8527 and climbing.

When I started blogging, I was completely overwhelmed at the thought of producing a weekly blog post. Now, the ideas just keep flowing.

4. You can’t force creativity.
I am disciplined, but it didn’t work when I told myself, “okay, now you’re going to be creative.” Somedays you have it and other days you don’t. Not every blog post or book review will be a wonderfully crafted piece. The important thing is to keep writing.

5. Writing is more important than social media.
Social media is easy to use, which is both a blessing and a curse. You can have hundreds of Facebook friends, LinkedIn connections and Twitter followers. If you don’t have anything interesting to say, it won’t matter.

Now, I’m off to write more Amazon book reviews :).