Lessons from Writing: Insights for Life and Success
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Chapter 1: The Art of Clarity
Writing is a form of thought expression. Each time you compose a message, post, or email, it mirrors your thinking process. This is why honing your writing abilities is so crucial. Over time, I've learned that writing offers insights that extend well beyond the page, influencing my approach to business and life.
As Ernest Hemingway wisely stated:
“To write about life, you first need to live it.”
Here are some key lessons I've learned through writing:
Embrace Simplicity in Communication
This principle, inspired by Thomas Jefferson, advises against using excessive words or overly complex vocabulary. The goal is to communicate effectively and concisely. This straightforwardness can also be applied to life. For example, in my strength training, I concentrate on a few key exercises that yield the best results.
I have a modest home gym equipped with a squat rack and some kettlebells, allowing me to work out effectively without the need for a commercial gym. Each workout is designed with a clear focus: to maintain fitness and prevent injuries.
In writing, the first lesson is to refine your work for clarity, eliminating superfluous words that do not enhance your message. If you apply the same principle in life, you’ll find that simplifying your pursuits can bring greater satisfaction.
Equip Yourself for Opportunities
In On Writing, Stephen King recounts a moment with his Uncle Oren, who carried a large toolbox to fix a window screen but only needed a screwdriver. Young Stephen questioned this choice, but Uncle Oren explained that having a variety of tools allows one to tackle unexpected tasks without feeling daunted.
Think of opportunities as unpredictable. For instance, if your dream job suddenly becomes available, ask yourself: “Am I prepared to seize this chance?” The answer lies in your ongoing commitment to developing your skills and knowledge. By building your "toolbox," you ensure that when opportunities arise, you are ready to take action.
This lesson has also been pivotal in my research for writing about investing. The most successful investors manage their emotions and spend time researching rather than reacting impulsively. True patience involves consistent effort and allowing time to work in your favor.
When I began my writing journey in 2015, I had little audience recognition. Yet, through persistent publishing, my readership grew from a handful to millions.
Commit to Small Steps When Life Gets Tough
Many writers abandon their craft when faced with life’s challenges. However, quitting guarantees failure. Life rarely unfolds as we expect, and during my early writing years, I faced numerous obstacles that tempted me to give up.
It’s common for writers to experience fluctuating success—some pieces resonate, while others fall flat. The key is to keep writing, even when progress feels stalled. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I recall Hemingway's advice:
“Just write one true sentence. Write the truest sentence you know.”
Writing is a habit. If you struggle to write daily, that’s perfectly normal. The essential part is to return to your writing routine, no matter the circumstances. Even in difficult times, commit to writing just one sentence. This small act can help maintain your writing practice amidst chaos.
Pursue What You Love
Years ago, I thought becoming a DJ would lead to an exciting life. After investing in equipment and playing gigs, I realized that the reality didn’t align with my introverted nature. If you don’t enjoy what you do, achieving success becomes far more challenging.
Those who excel in their fields often find fulfillment in the process rather than just in the rewards. If your motivation is solely financial or for the perks, you may never reach your full potential. I find immense joy in reading and writing, which has ultimately shaped the life I desire.
Chapter 2: Insights from Experience
In this video, "My First Year as a Writer: 10 Lessons Learned," the speaker shares invaluable lessons from their initial year of writing, highlighting the importance of resilience, clarity, and authenticity.
In "33 Lessons God Taught Me in Year 33 of My Life (And Some Were Hard to Accept!)," the speaker reflects on profound life lessons learned through personal experiences, emphasizing growth through challenges.