Escaping the Perfectionist Trap and Rethinking “Good” and “Bad” Writing
In our fast-paced digital age, where anyone with a keyboard can seemingly become a published author or social media influencer, the pressure to write “well” has reached a high point long time ago.
We scroll through Instagram captions that are perfectly curated, admire viral articles with impeccable grammar, and devour bestselling novels that flow effortlessly from page to page.
It’s easy to feel like our own writing is not as good, leaving us stuck in a cycle of self-doubt and comparison.
But here’s the secret: the idea of “good” and “bad” writing is more flexible and subjective than we think.
What’s seen as “good” can vary greatly depending on the context, genre, audience, and even personal taste. A clever tweet that goes viral might not work well in a formal academic paper, while the poetic prose of a classic novel might not suit a modern blog post.
What we often think of as “good” writing is rarely the result of spontaneous genius. It comes from countless hours of drafting, revising, editing, and receiving feedback.
Even the most acclaimed authors rely on a team of editors, proofreaders, and beta readers to improve their work.
Comparing your first draft to a published book is like comparing a rough sketch to a finished masterpiece. They both have their place in the creative process, but they shouldn’t be judged by the same standards.
So, if “good” writing isn’t a fixed goal, what should you aim for?
The answer lies in embracing your unique voice. Your personal experiences, perspectives, and quirks are what make your writing truly special. Don’t try to copy someone else’s style; instead, focus on developing your own genuine expression.
Think of your favorite writers. What draws you to their work?
Is it their humor, their vulnerability, their ability to transport you to another world? It’s likely not just their technical skill, but the essence of who they are that shines through their words. That’s the magic you want to capture in your own writing.
Experiment with different genres, styles, and formats.
Find what feels authentic to you and resonates with your audience.
You may be a natural storyteller who excels at narrative-driven blog posts, or you may have a talent for creating concise, impactful social media captions. There’s no right or wrong way to write; the key is to find what feels right for you.
Remember, writing is not a linear path to perfection; it’s a winding road filled with detours, roadblocks, and unexpected breakthroughs. Embrace the messiness of the process. Allow yourself to write “bad” first drafts, knowing that they’re just stepping stones to something better.
Feel free to experiment, make mistakes, and try new things.
Every word you write is a learning experience, an opportunity to grow and refine your craft. View feedback not as criticism but as a valuable tool for improvement. Remember, even the most seasoned writers were once beginners, stumbling through their first sentences.
Writing can sometimes feel like a solitary pursuit, but you don’t have to go it alone.
Building a supportive community of fellow writers can be a game-changer. Share your work, exchange feedback, and learn from each other’s successes and struggles.
Joining online forums, writing groups, or even just finding a writing buddy can provide invaluable support and encouragement. You’ll gain new perspectives, discover helpful resources, and find the motivation to keep writing even when the going gets tough.
Try to remember that you are not just a writer; you’re part of a vibrant community of creators who are all on their own unique journeys.
Instead of fixating on whether your writing is “good” or “bad,” shift your focus to more meaningful metrics. Ask yourself:
– Is my writing clear and easy to understand? Does it convey my message effectively?
– Does it capture and hold the reader’s attention? Do they feel compelled to keep reading?
– Does it achieve its intended purpose? Does it inform, entertain, persuade, or inspire?
– Does it offer a fresh perspective or unique insight? Does it add value to the conversation?
– Does it resonate with readers and leave a lasting impression? Do they feel moved or changed by my words?
By evaluating your writing based on these criteria, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of its strengths and weaknesses, regardless of any arbitrary labels.
You’ll also discover that writing is not just about producing a perfect product; it’s about connecting with your readers, sharing your ideas, and making a meaningful impact.
Above all, remember that writing should be a source of joy and fulfillment.
Don’t let the pursuit of perfection overshadow the pleasure of the process.
Write because you love it, because you have something to say, or simply because it’s fun.
Your words have power, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out.
Don’t let fear or self-doubt hold you back.
Use your unique voice, embrace the journey, and embrace the joy of writing. The world is waiting to hear what you have to say.
So go forth and write – not because you have to, but because you want to.