When most people think of writing, thoughts of frustration and impatience come to mind. For some reason, a large percentage of the population struggles to find joy in writing. Many people find themselves struggling to come up with a topic to write about, or the fluidity to make whatever they think of sound right.

Yet, even when most people think about the mere act of writing, it is almost as if they shut down and dismiss the idea completely. Nevertheless, though, writing is one of those things you have to at least attempt before you give up on. It's a long and tedious process no doubt, but there is some good that can come from spilling your thoughts on a blank page.

I have been writing since I was in 1st grade. Throughout the years, I would write short essays, poems, and stories during school, yet none of them were up to par with my own standards. I used to beat myself up over my writing and I would eventually get frustrated and give up on the process completely.

It wasn't until my freshman year of college though, when I decided to turn the tables. I thought about joining Odyssey as a way to expand the horizons of my writing. Since joining, I have only gathered positive experiences and noticed a plethora of benefits.

1. You can write about whatever you want

The wonderful thing about writing for Odyssey is that you can literally write about whatever you want. Your passions, your fears, your family, anything! This allows for flexible creativity and helps with the production process as well - as long as your article doesn't go over 1000 words.

2. It's a good outlet to express creativity

Since all creators have the freedom to write about whatever they want, they are also given the opportunity to explore themselves and what they are good at. You can take your ideas in any direction and they will be unique to you no matter what.

3. It's a platform to share ideas on

Unlimited creative freedom means having an unlimited amount of ideas to share. The more promotion your articles get, the more they begin to resonate with people who agree. The more people you reach, the more of a following you're able to gather.

4. Creates an opportunity to network

Odyssey is everywhere. Odyssey writers just have a vibe too. You are given the option to collaborate on articles with fellow creators all the while meeting new friends. A collection of knowledge begins to develop from these interactions and suddenly you have friends to assist you in your next article.

5. It improves your writing skills

Practice makes perfect. The more you discipline yourself to write, the better you eventually become at it. Ideas flow more easily and you begin to develop a rhythm.

6. .... which helps you out later in life!

Writing for a newspaper of sorts looks great on any potential application. Being able to express your ideas in an articulate manner is essential in every workforce.

7. Writing is good for stress relief

Writing is a good way to take something you're passionate and make it your own. It's usually something you do alone and on your time, making it a very beneficial activity.

8. You have a voice

Everyone has something to say, and respectfully, wants to be heard. Odyssey is a good way to project your voice to the world. Many Odyssey articles go viral on social media and cause conversation across all computer-mediated communication.

9. You are apart of something bigger than yourself

We all want to leave this Earth having left something behind. What better to leave behind than your unique thoughts and beliefs?

Writing exposes the most intimate depths of our souls and sometimes that becomes a hard thing for many people to stomach. Frustration, writers' block, and lack of interest are the typical catalysts for why many people steer away from writing. Yet, there is something so releasing about it once you start. Instead of trying to guide our thoughts, we should let our thoughts guide us. After all, the pen is mightier than the sword.