Three months ago today I took the plunge and started my own blog. It’s something I had been considering for a long time but I let my anxiety and lack of confidence get in the way of taking that scary first step. I’ve always been fearful of starting anything new. I’m a perfectionist and my fear of failure often stops me from even trying. But I will let you into a secret; most people aren’t good at something on the first attempt. It takes practice, experience and time to gain knowledge, but that’s the fun part. Don’t deny yourself something you may end up loving just because you might not be good at it. You don’t have to be good at something to enjoy it.
I’m not a writer. I lack the vocabulary skills to express myself eloquently. My brain fog causes an extra challenge and my good old anxiety does the predictable and rears its ugly head at every opportunity, but I’m learning so much. Up until 3 months ago I hadn’t written anything that could be considered an ‘article’ but I had a lot I wanted to say. I have a lot of experience and after years of frustration I finally have a voice, but I still doubt myself.
Here are some of the anxious thoughts and doubts that run through my mind on a regular basis:
- Why would anyone want to hear about your life?
- What makes you so special?
- What makes you think you are qualified to advise others?
- You will only f*ck it up!
- You will make a fool of yourself!
- You’re not a writer!
- You haven’t got a clue what you are doing and everyone knows you’re a fraud!
Do these thoughts sound familiar?
So my urge to anyone considering starting a blog, who hasn’t mustered the courage yet is; Go for it! What have you got to lose? If I can do it, anyone can. The anxious doubts you have are completely natural but don’t let them stop you from pursuing your dreams. And if you are not quite ready to start your own blog, why not write a piece for mine? I welcome contributions from my followers. I know you have a lot to offer and I look forward to learning from your experiences.
PS. It doesn’t have to be just about writing. Is there a new hobby you have been wanting to try but are afraid you won’t be any good? Or maybe a new language you would like to learn, or have you been thinking about returning to college? Maybe your passion is travelling but you’ve lost your confidence. Fear of failure stops us from doing so much, please don’t be afraid to start something new.
What new hobby would you love to try? Have you started something new recently?
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