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This comment was by Jed Diamond Ph.D in reference to the post – Why it Takes Time to Write Well
Jessica, I very much enjoyed your piece. I’ve been writing since I was a kid. I stopped for a long time when a few teachers shamed me and discouraged my writing. I began again when I was in my 30s and wanted to write a book to help make sense of my life. Inside Out: Becoming My Own Man came out in 1983. Since then I have written 14 books and have been writing weekly posts for the Good Men Project since it first launched eight years ago.
A few other thoughts that are suggested in your fine article: 1. Writers write. If you want to be a writer, sit down and write. You’ve got all you need to get started and keep going. 2. Never edit your writing until you’ve finished your first draft. Too many of us are critical of ourselves and can’t get two sentences down before we want to “fix it” and re-write. Let your creativity and passion carry you along. There will be time for editing and polishing later. 3. Have fun. Being a writer, if you are called to do so, is a way to learn about yourself, other people, the world we live in. It’s a kick. 4. Being a writer makes you part of a rare group of people. You’ll become part of a group of fellow writers (some you’ll meet and others you’ll never talk to directly) who will be your write-mates throughout your life. And remember, all writers are readers. When you’re a writer, you’re never alone.
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