There are no shortcuts to success. I know this because I’ve pioneered taking detours (primarily for fun), but those alternate routes to success take longer and sometimes require driving backward. However, the joy of the learning process, the thrill of mastering a new skill, is a reward.
The skill I’m working on improving is my writing.
I’ve been using Linked In as a place to post my shitty first drafts and then upload the more extended versions on my website, parrishticer.com, as a way to practice my writing skills. I have a degree in Journalism, but I’ve mainly concentrated on my graphic design skills, a commercial art minor, over my career.
Checking out a webinar, reading a book about a process, or taking a class about a skill you want to improve is a great way to create a deliberate practice. It’s like having to show up in sixth period every day to work out.
This year, I took a 12-week self-paced course by Brendon Leonard of Semi-Rad fame. If you don’t know about Brendon, check out his site. He’s a fantastic adventure writer, blogger, and artist. You may have read some of his writing in Outside magazine or Men’s Journal.
His Substack for Semi-Rad comes out weekly, and I always click on the links he shares. His curation skills are top-notch. Highly recommended.
When he offered a writing class this year, “How to Write One Story Online,” I jumped at the chance to take it. If you are interested in practicing your writing skills in a low-stress environment and with a quick pace, this is an excellent course for you. It holds you accountable with weekly sessions, and Leonard does a great job of using video and vivid descriptions to help you understand the intent of the lessons. The value I gained from this class was immense, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their writing skills.
It was great practice, and I came away with the start of a story I wanted to tell. Plus, it didn’t break the bank.
What skills are you practicing this year? I’d love to hear about your journey. Cheers!
