I’m A Writer, And I’m Ok With That

Sean Grabowski
Jul 25, 2017 · 3 min read

A couple years ago I spontaneously decided to write my first article. A thought popped into my mind and for once I said to myself “why not”, and wrote it all down. Although written communication always came easily for me in school, I truly never enjoyed the writing portion of my university experience, and never imagined that I would be one to continue writing for leisure, reflection or any sort of career after I graduated. I was always irritated by the idea of considering myself a “writer”, and this feeling only grew as I began writing more. I have no idea why I loathed the title, but I did.

Since creating my website over a year ago, I’ve been asked regularly and consistently about writing. I receive questions and statements along the lines of “Do you want a career in writing?” or “Why don’t you become a journalist?”. My typical response is generally a variation of the simple “no”. For whatever reason, my interpretation was that labeling myself as a “writer” was and would always be a limiting belief, and would only serve to restrict my potential. I truly never thought I would enjoy writing or become someone who regularly shares my thoughts in the way that I do now.

“YOU MUST WRITE FOR YOURSELF, ABOVE ALL. THAT IS YOUR ONLY HOPE OF CREATING SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL.”
GUSTAVE FLAUBERT

Recently, I was explaining to some family members again that “I’m not a writer”. I responded the same as I would any other time, except this time, deep down in my complex web of thoughts, I decided to rethink my viewpoint. What I realized is that right now I actually enjoy writing more than I ever have. It has become an outlet for me in many different ways, and it has already been able to provide me with many benefits I would have never expected. Writing has inspired me to become more creative, while simultaneously forcing me to explore new interests and capabilities that I otherwise may have overlooked. Writing down my thoughts has helped me to live with intention, by reflecting on my life circumstances as they unfold. It has become a method of meditation that helps me make better decisions, understand my choices from a new perspective, and better employ a new-found clarity about my personal standards, what I want out of life, and the steps I must take to get there.

This week I finally considered the possibility that just maybe, being a “writer” is something positive. All things considered, it has been nothing but a learning experience from the very beginning, and I’m actually really enjoying it. I’m choosing to finally embrace that I am a “writer”, because it has actually been pretty great.

Check out my website for more content from myself and others @ TheMindfulSteward.com

A normal dude with an abnormal passion for creating. Host of The Mindful Steward Podcast. Visit TheMindfulSteward.com for free ebooks and guided meditations.

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