This month, I began writing 1,000 words a day for 30 days. It was an idea that came to me after I wrote 1,000 words one evening in just 30 minutes. I felt so good about my accomplishment, I thought “I should do this every day.” Alas, that’s how my goal came to fruition. I’m just over a week into my challenge, which has taught me a few things about writing.

Practice = Improvement

Just like any other task, practice is essential in improving our writing. In spending a week writing every day, I feel that my writing skills are beginning to become stronger and my confidence is building.

Don’t Strive for Perfection

If I sought perfection in my writing, I would never complete a book. I would constantly be revising and editing, seeking the perfect words. Instead, I write from the heart and commit to getting my thoughts on paper (or on screen).

Don’t Make Excuses

There have been several days since I made this commitment that I didn’t think I had time to write, or just didn’t feel like it. But I didn’t succumb to these emotions. Instead, I made the time and stuck to my commitment. Excuses will hold us back from reaching our goals. Don’t let them.

Don’t Hold Back

If you ever doubt whether what you’re writing will be useful or relevant, don’t. Write from your heart and let your thoughts and emotions bleed onto the page. This will result in stronger, more emotional writing. And if you find that certain sentences need to be cut in the end, you can always remove them during the editing phase.

No One Will See Your First Draft

Write for yourself, not for others. No one will see your first draft but you. Let your writing flow and don’t wonder how readers may respond. Just type, create.

This is what I’ve learned so far during my 30-day writing challenge. I hope you will also challenge yourself in some way. Start small. Maybe begin by committing to write 500 words a day for one week. A little can go a long way, and when you’re ready you can step into larger goals.