During the Summer of 2016, I got the opportunity to write weekly articles where I showcase my own content and share what I believe is "most important to [my] and [my] communities, enriching everyone with broader, more honest perspectives on topics [I] care about." It was exciting at first; I had all these things I wanted to write about and I was ready for the challenge. A common question I always get from people who read my articles or know that I write ask me if it is for a class at school or a job, but the answer always surprises them.

No.

Writing these articles isn't a job. I found out about this opportunity through my school, yes, but it was mainly for me to gain experience for writing a blog, an article or whatever; showcasing my ability to meet deadlines every week for potential employers and get my stuff published.

I have definitely had my fair share of ups and downs with writing articles every week, don't get me wrong, but I can say that I have mostly enjoyed my experience.

However, my word documents have been empty for a while. The computer cursor just sits there and waits until I finally think of something decent to write about, then I start to type a decent introduction sentence, then hit 'control,' 'alt,' delete.

I became less enthused to write. I began to write unimaginative, uninspired and unproductive "listicles" just so I could meet the deadline. Basic list after basic list; I felt like my work became average. I didn't put enough care into my articles anymore, and then eventually I lost all motivation to write anything at all.

I started questioning and hating everything I wrote. I never was too confident anyway. Is this for me? Am I even a writer? Has this made me realize that maybe I don't have what it takes; that I am simply just can't write?

So here I am.

Trying to write something, or really just to get something submitted, and also mostly to vent. I guess I am trying to be more positive as it is the new year and I already have that obligated feeling that it is the new year, so there should be a new me.

I found it was stressful to write an article every week and even more stressful because I wasn't writing things that I like to write. I would put in something half-ass just to meet the deadline and feel even down about myself for "not writing well."

I guess I am writing this is so that I can set out goals for myself in 2017, and have them written and published.

So here it is:

Stop writing about things that don't make you happy. Prioritize things you become committed to and find a time to write something that you know you will be happy about. Stop stressing out about the little things, and stop being so critical of your writing. Practice makes perfect and if you are determined you will be happy with what you produce. Write how you want to, even if it doesn't get a lot of views. Who cares? You are doing this for yourself, so you can get experience while writing what you want.

Sincerely,

Lexi