Six Months of Blogging

Yesterday was the six-month anniversary of this blog! 

I feel like I should have a party! Thanks to everyone who reads, comments on, and follows this blog!

To celebrate this mini-milestone, today I am sharing the very first article I ever had published - well before I ever thought of writing a blog. 

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Why Write? 

How I Decided to Pursue My Passion for Writing

I am a nurse, wife, and mother, who - until a decade ago - never gave being an author even a thought. I was content with my days full of work, volunteering, and family. I never even acknowledged that writing was a skill I was proficient at and enjoyed. Recently though, I have spent time wondering if I should commit more effort to writing. But why? 

Why do I want to write? 

I never really have written much. I excelled in my English classes and always did well on written assignments. I enjoy the process of writing, but I am not the type of person who keeps a daily journal, or even writes with any regularity. In fact, I have always found much more pleasure in reading than writing. For years, the most writing I have done has been our family holiday letter. Whenever I do write, however, I always feel fulfilled.



Why now?

A few years ago, I had an idea for a plot and considered writing a novel. That led me to wonder if I have the ability and talent to be a writer. Self doubt and other obligations stood in the way, but my ambitions grew and now I am ready to devote a serious amount of time to the craft of writing.



What are the Reasons People Choose to Write? What are mine? 

I have been a stay-at-home mom for long enough that I have no real desire to go back to my old career. Is writing really an avenue I could pursue? Am I talented enough? Could I try to make money writing, or should I just write as a hobby? What type of writing is it that I want to do? 



People write for many reasons:

• To communicate an idea.

• To express their creativity.

• For the therapeutic benefits it provides.

• To tell a story.

• To change something.

• To create a legacy (thoughts in writing can outlive the writer).

• For themselves or an audience (so others may read what they write, or in fear that someone will!)

• To generate income.

• Because they want to - some even say because they "have to."

Every writer has a unique set of reasons as to why they write. Many writers would simply ask: "Why not?"

 I question myself:

• Is it the actual writing process that I desire?

• The glamour of having the reputation of being an author?

• The appeal of creating income from my home, on my own time, being my own boss?


I deliberate as to whether my motives are justifiable reasons to channel my time and energy into writing? What is the best way to begin?

 Should I become a writer? 

  

There is only one way to find out. I have begun to write.

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(A version of this article was previously published by Yahoo Contributor Network)

One of these days I will probably resume writing that novel I mentioned.  I plan to still be blogging here at least six months from now, however - and hopefully long after that! 

I am looking forward to the most - - of every moment continuing to improve and grow. There will be some changes in the near future, that I am hopeful you will really like.

What are the types of articles that you have enjoyed reading most on this blog?

This post may be linked to one of the great link-up parties I follow and list on my blog.  Check them out!