3 Things I didn't do when starting my writing journey
Hey Friends!
Good morning! Well, it's morning for me, at least. I’m actually writing this before heading off to work. The sun isn't even out yet, but I already feel super productive, even though I haven't really done much yet. Do you ever have that feeling? Like you're crushing it, and it's only 6 AM? That's me today.
So, this week I did my usual brain dump of tasks—both the "must-do" and the "want-to-do." While I’m not usually a big procrastinator, sometimes things can linger on that list longer than I’d like. But this week? It’s going well. I feel like I’ve been in the groove, checking things off left and right. So, I wanted to pop in and share something that’s been on my mind about writing, blogging, and life in general.
Here are three things I didn’t do when I first started blogging—and how they actually helped me build confidence, even though I didn’t (and still don’t) consider myself a "real" writer.
1. I Didn't Take Any Courses
That's right. I didn’t sign up for a single writing course, blog workshop, or anything else that promised to teach me how to structure a "perfect" post. And here’s why: I’ve always been someone who defaults to learning by enrolling in courses—big or small. But this time, I decided to skip the courses and trust my own voice. I wanted to rediscover myself, ground my thoughts, and reconnect with what felt authentic.
I realized that trying to follow some "perfect formula" was the quickest way to lose myself in the noise. What I needed was a clean slate—a chance to figure out what I actually wanted, rather than what I was “supposed” to do.
2. I Didn't Read Other People’s Blogs
We’ve all been there: you see someone who's five years ahead of you, and suddenly, you feel small. You compare yourself, doubt creeps in, and imposter syndrome hits hard. I knew that if I started reading other blogs, I’d fall into that trap. I didn’t want to copy anyone’s structure, style, or content. I wanted my writing to come from me—what I was feeling, journaling, or processing in real-time.
Plus, I didn’t want to get distracted by all the “how-to’s” of monetizing a blog or creating a perfect strategy. I needed to focus on the writing itself—on what felt good, on what I wanted to share—without being influenced by someone else’s path.
3. I Didn't Restrict Myself to "Talking to My Audience"
One thing I see all the time is the advice to "talk to your audience." Sure, it makes sense. But I didn’t want to limit myself to always being in that mindset. Sometimes, I just want to talk like I'm chatting with a friend—having coffee, relaxing with some lo-fi music, and just being real.
And so, I decided that my blog is going to feel more like a cozy conversation than a formal presentation. Some days I’ll talk directly to you, like I’m giving advice. Other days, I’ll be venting or sharing personal insights, as if we’re curled up on the couch together. That freedom to move between different modes of expression? It’s been everything for me.
Here’s the thing I’ve learned: Loving your decisions is crucial. Sure, it might not always feel like the “best” or most “perfect” choice by someone else’s standards, but it’s your decision. And owning it, standing by it—that’s where your power lies.
I know myself. I thrive on change (hello, Virgo and Manifesting Generator energy!). But I also know how easily I can be swayed by shiny new ideas. So, I’ve been working on this: before I leap into something new, I ask myself why. Am I chasing a trend because it feels right for me, or am I just trying to mimic someone else's success? This reflection has been a game-changer for staying true to myself.
So, if you’ve been feeling the pull to just start—whether that’s writing, launching something new, or diving into a creative project—here’s my advice: skip the courses, skip the comparisons, and trust your own voice. You don’t need permission, and you definitely don’t need a roadmap from someone else’s journey.
Oh, and before I forget—one last exciting update: I’m creating a free community called Manifest That Shift. It's still in the works, but I’d love for you to JOIN. It’s going to be a place where we can share experiences, support each other, and dive deeper into the tools and concepts I talk about here on the blog. Think of it as an extension of these cozy, unscripted conversations. I’m excited to connect with you there!
That’s it for now, friends. I hope these little insights help you in your own unscripted journey.
Here’s to remembering: unscripting is key for living pleasurably.
Have a great day!