Hey there, beautiful ones! A few months ago, someone asked me an unusual question. This person knew I was challenging myself to write for 365 days, and this question came when I was still in the 200s. They asked me, “What are you going to do on Day 366?” I chose not to answer the question for two reasons: one, because the answer seemed obvious, and two, because it didn’t come from a place of genuine concern or curiosity. But now, here we are, and I’m ready to share the answer to that question. Spoiler alert: it’s another blog post!
Forming a Habit: Beyond the First 30 Days
They say habits can be formed or broken within 30 to 45 days. If that’s the case, doing something for 365 days is more than just a habit; it’s a lifestyle. Why would I stop a lifestyle choice because the year is over? Honestly, it would take me another 30 to 45 days just to get out of the habit of writing these posts every day. But why would I want to do that?
A question like that could unnerve someone with insecurities. They might question if they should keep going or maybe they were only doing it for the attention. They might say, “Okay, I’m done,” and stop. However, the person I am today lacks those insecurities, at least when it comes to writing these blog posts. There was never a question of whether I would keep going. And I couldn’t care less about attention, so that’s not an issue. The whole point of this challenge was to establish a habit that would help me become a prolific writer. Why would I stop if that is the main goal? Besides, reaching my goal and relishing the accomplishment meant more to me than just the day after.
Embracing the Writing Lifestyle
Will I go another year? Absolutely. This is what I do. Writing these blog posts has given me newfound confidence in my writing. I write poetry more than ever. I even wrote a new chapbook in a two-week span. Book ideas come to me frequently, which isn’t new, but now I am writing them out to my heart’s content. I get excited about writing now. Before this challenge, writing gave me anxiety because I put way too much pressure and expectation on myself. Now, I say whatever I want, which means I write whatever I want. I have little to no concern about what anyone thinks.
With this challenge, I broke a cycle of repetition for myself. One that kept me in the loop of wanting to be a prolific writer but being too afraid of the world and its opinions to go full throttle. Nowadays, you can’t tell me anything or ask me anything in regard to my writing that involves me not writing. This is who I am. Period.
The Ripple Effect: Inspiring Others
Beyond personal growth, this journey has had an incredible ripple effect. Many readers have reached out, sharing how my posts inspired them to start their own challenges, whether it’s writing, exercising, or simply committing to a new hobby. It’s been humbling and exhilarating to know that my dedication has sparked positive changes in others’ lives.
When I reflect on why I started this challenge, it was to prove to myself that I could commit to something big and see it through. But it’s become so much more than that. It’s about showing up every day, not just for myself but for all of you who read my words and find something meaningful in them.
Silence the Doubters and Keep Moving Forward
So, my beautiful one, don’t let other people’s questions about what you’re doing trip you up. Continue to do what you need to. Continue to just be you. You can show them better than you can tell them. Keep your eyes on your goals and let your actions speak louder than any doubts others may have. After all, this journey is yours, and you owe it to yourself to see it through.
Life is a series of challenges and milestones. Whether it’s writing every day, embarking on a new career, or simply trying to be a better version of yourself, the key is consistency and self-belief. You have the power to turn your dreams into reality, one day at a time.
I believe in you. And remember, as always, I love you. 💙
Need guidance? Take advantage of the Blue Phoenix Rising 1-on-1 coaching!
Are you a Phoenix? Join the Patreon community for more insight and the monthly masterclass!
Need inspiration? Download your guide, 5 Essential Steps to Unlock Your Creative Power and get access to the weekly newsletter!
Leave a Reply