Shit or Get Off the Pot: A Writer's Journey to Accountability
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Chapter 1: The Challenge of New Year's Resolutions
In my experience as a writer, I’ve always found the concept of New Year's resolutions puzzling. To me, if you wish to change your life, there’s no need to wait for a specific date. The notion of designating a particular time to initiate change seems arbitrary and often lacks substance. Many people struggle to adhere to their resolutions, which casts doubt on their effectiveness.
Nonetheless, I comprehend the rationale behind public commitments to enhance one's life. Personally, I’ve engaged in similar practices, as my social media presence serves as a means to navigate both my personal growth and the complexities of the world. Why seek professional help when you can access a plethora of advice online for free? Sometimes, this unsolicited guidance proves valuable.
Announcing your intentions can provide motivation to follow through. Social media can create a sense of accountability through the collective pressure of your network.
Section 1.1: My Personal Accountability Journey
A few years back, I embarked on a juice fast, consuming nothing but fruit and vegetable juices for a month. This undertaking also meant giving up alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine. While it wasn’t a sustainable weight-loss method, I managed to shed 30 pounds and quit smoking for good.
During this period, my brother offered to act as my accountability coach, a role I initially dismissed. I didn't see how his involvement could influence my commitment. After all, I was already sharing my progress with my social media circle. My posts garnered significant engagement, not due to my charm, but because I often wrote about topics that sparked conversations.
Despite the challenges, I documented my experiences openly. As someone who wears my heart on my sleeve, I had no qualms about sharing my struggles. I believe that failure is less daunting than the fear of it, a topic deserving of its own discussion.
Section 1.2: The Support and Skepticism
As I documented my journey, I received a mix of encouragement and skepticism. While many supported my endeavor, some chose to mute my updates. I welcomed this; it allowed me to focus on surviving each day without distraction.
I repeated the juice fast twice more, realizing its effectiveness, but also recognizing that without permanent lifestyle changes, the weight would return. I often heard people claim they couldn’t undertake such a challenge, which I found absurd. If you need to make a change, you can.
Chapter 2: The Evolution of My Writing
The first video explores the urgency of making decisive choices, especially in light of the challenges we face today.
Throughout my life, writing has always been a passion, igniting my imagination from an early age. My first attempts at storytelling happened in third grade, though my plots and characters could use more development. Throughout my childhood, I gravitated more toward art, but my love for reading remained strong.
Writing came naturally to me academically, and I pursued journalism in college. Eventually, I found myself immersed in advertising, where I leaned on my writing skills to craft compelling narratives for brands. Despite achieving success in this field, a part of me felt I had strayed from my true calling.
The second video discusses the implications of setting personal boundaries, especially in relationships, drawing parallels to the decisions we make in our careers.
Section 2.1: The Awakening
As the internet evolved, I began to write with greater intention. I started several blogs, but it wasn’t until social media emerged that I felt rewarded for my creativity. My writing took on new forms, and I focused on personal essays and reflections about my upbringing.
However, my attention remained divided between career aspirations and family responsibilities. It wasn’t until the political climate shifted dramatically in 2016 that I felt compelled to engage more actively in my community, helping local candidates and launching an online news magazine to address the media void in my area.
Section 2.2: The Decision to Move Forward
A year ago, I made the choice to leave Facebook for my mental well-being. While I initially felt isolated, I found solace in Twitter, where I followed journalists and creatives. As I began sharing my writing on Medium, I slowly gained traction and started to monetize my work.
The pandemic provided an unexpected opportunity for reflection. I decided to quit drinking just before lockdowns began, allowing me to channel my energy into writing. This newfound clarity led to an impressive output, with thousands of words generated daily.
My journey has been one of self-discovery and growth, as I strive to embrace my identity as a writer. The time has come to take my ambitions seriously and pursue a broader audience. I aim to contribute to magazines, newspapers, or even author a book, all while accepting the risks and rewards that come with creative expression.
Chapter 3: Embracing Vulnerability
Revealing my aspirations feels daunting, yet I recognize that vulnerability is crucial for a creator. Fear of failure cannot dictate my actions; instead, I must embrace the challenges ahead.
After years of honing my craft, I understand my audience and can weave captivating narratives. Now, I must convince the gatekeepers of the literary world to recognize my potential.
If you resonate with my journey, I invite you to follow my work and join me on this path toward professional writing.