Don’t Read the Comments
What’s holding you back from writing?
Scrolling through the Twitters this morning I saw someone pose the question, “What’s been your worst experience as a writer?”
I’m sure a lot of people would say getting rejection letters or even hateful comments on their work. I immediately knew my answer.
“Constantly holding myself back for fear of the comments I might get.”
That’s the worst. Beyond any actual hateful, derogatory, insulting comments I’ve gotten. Being afraid of expressing myself because it might make someone mad, hurt or offended is my Achilles heel.
I’ve written scads of articles in my head and then jumped to defending myself to every negative comment I can conjure, determined to have an answer for every would-be naysayer until I stress myself beyond my breaking point, shut down, and write nothing. Repeat.
This sucks, man. This is no way to pursue any endeavor.
But I discovered a solution.
Don’t read the comments.
Done! Lemme tell you the weight lifted off my shoulders.
I’ve been writing pieces as if I’m submitting them for the world’s approval. As if I’m looking for validation my opinions are right. As if I’m asking permission…
