While writing for Odyssey, my friends and family members wonder if I have a "process" for each article. My simplest answer: no. Though I do have little rituals that prepare me for each weekly story, I thought it would be best to share some of my favorites insecurities that almost every writer has to go through.
1. No Talent
Oh goodness, where to begin? This is the holy grail of my life as a "writer." Though joining Odyssey has been another major accomplishment in my life, it is also a burden. At times when I feel I have grown as a writer; someone much more clever comes along, and out goes all the confidence I thought I had. But! This in return pushes me to write smarter and harder, which I am grateful for. I am adamant about believing in your career. If you want to do this for the rest of your life, you should be good at it.
2. I'm Uninformed
Growing up in a small town, it seems everyone is blind to the catastrophes surrounding us. Whether it be unlawful bills passing, mass murders, or civil racism; no one talks about these things. When I'm writing an article, I never feel prepared enough. Who said what? How has the media portrayed this event? How can I spin this story to make my readers understand it better? At times, when writing about controversial topics, there are moments that I feel completely useless. Do I really know what I'm talking about? Everyone else has their opinions in order, what can't I?
3. Inaccurate Information
Validity is scared in writing, in any form. If you plan on reporting any event or circumstance, it is vital to have credible sources. Any information that is falsified or corrupted can be detrimental to your career. I break my writing into three sections: research, writing, then editing/revision. Though the research aspect of an article is meticulous and time consuming, it is worthwhile. This helps the writer better grasp their content, which in return gives readers a clearer view of what's happening.
4. No One Cares
Why write, if no one listens?
5. What Are You Talking About?
Yet another of my biggest fears, is that I'm being misunderstood; that my words are misleading in some way. There have been plenty of times where I'll be debating with a friend or two, and what I'm trying to say comes across completely different than intended. Times like these remind me to take caution when writing. Make sure you can understand what you're saying!
6. Family Matters
This is yet another insecurity that grapples me from time to time. Certain topics are sensitive in my family, so there have a few moments of hesitations before I begin my writing process. Through my writing, I have learned to approach tender topics with care, but ultimately speaking my mind has to be done. I am able to express my thoughts and opinions through my own words, regardless of what those around me feel!
In the end, whether writing for Odyssey or a few chapters of a novel, writing is terrifying. All the worries and doubts can seem like problems, but in actuality, there are building blocks - at least for me. They urge me to get creative, innovative, and curious. They urge me to seek out information and find credible sources. They urge me to be my own person and express what I'm feeling, however controversial. They urge me to be me.
