Writing About Writing…

A Message of Gratitude

In the Beginning, There Was a Writer

I started my Medium career because of an online writing class.

One of the assignments was to choose a platform and write something. We weren’t given a specific prompt, we were just told to publish a blog, article, or story.

This was exactly the push I needed. I was clueless about beginning the process of becoming a writer.

I thought I needed permission or something.

The first entry here (7/6/23) was my response to the assignment:

Since then, I’ve written about various topics from consciousness to feminism, and shared a few personal stories.

My articles are quite miscellaneous; I’ve been enjoying the process of experimenting with different subjects and writing styles. I never want to be predictable.

I’ve gained a vast amount of knowledge and inspiration from reading and engaging with more experienced writers’ work.

I feel as if I’ve accessed a creative part of my psyche that I was neglecting. Realizing its potential has been deeply fulfilling.

I didn’t take it seriously at first.

It’s not that I didn’t put effort into my first few articles, but I did not expect to gain an audience or be able to earn money as a writer.

The stereotypes are not as accurate as they used to be!

There are many more opportunities for writers now, thanks to the internet, although AI writing may or may not be a threat to the future of our careers. What do you think? (If you’re familiar with my writing, you know I can’t go very long without asking questions…)

I don’t believe artificial intelligence will ever be able to replace human creativity. More of my thoughts and questions about that topic here:

There are countless articles and stories on Medium about writing.

I’ve seen a lot of advice about finding a niche in order to appeal to readers. I think the only genre that all my work fits into is “thought provoking.” Is that a genre?

I appreciate the environment of mutual encouragement, sharing inspiration, and helping each other. This truly is a writers community.

I also agree with Zohvib’s point in this article:

The subject of writing shouldn’t be all we write about. Let’s go deeper.

With that said, I would deeply appreciate it if you take the time to indulge in the more profound topics I’ve been writing about (if you haven’t already.)

I hope that my experimental writing is endearing, if nothing else.

Also, here are some specific things I’ve learned:

To those of you who have been engaging with my explorations, I cannot express my gratitude enough. I will always thank you for reading at the end of my articles and stories; please know that I am genuinely grateful to have the opportunity to connect with all of you. Any support and/or feedback is greatly appreciated, and I will always to my best to return the favor.

Some of the best opportunities present themselves when we’re not really looking for them. Trust Serendipity! I was unaware of my own potential as a writer, but the affirmations and validation I’ve received completely changed my perception. I have earned a little over $150 (USD) so far, which may not sound like much, but I honestly didn’t think a writing career was achievable for me.

You, dear readers, have made that possible. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

I also want to share a few of my lists- I add pieces I enjoy frequently and they’re full of exceptional stories!

Once again, I thank you for reading. It really means the world to me.

Also, a HUGE thank you to the publications that have allowed me to reach a greater audience! Here are a few of my favorites:

With love and gratitude, Kendalin Jane