So today is April 17th. 17 days into National Poetry Writing Month. I, Kelsey had the amazing idea (peep the sarcasm) to attempt the poetry challenge I have seen so many poets I admire do in the past. I also decided to coordinate a program wide poetry challenge for my job. I'm so ambitious prior to challenges.
To say that this month has been a struggle for me is an understatement. Dealing with work related stress, physical ailments, strained relationships AND maintaining my sanity has been very time consuming.
But I'm still here! *praise break* We are more than halfway through the challenge and I'm still writing. I have fallen behind a few times but I have always pushed myself to catch up. My colleague, (who I challenged to participate and has been kicking my butt as far as consistency goes) told me something I have always known about myself: you over think too much.
Which is so true! I have held off on some big concepts because I've gotten in my head. I will sit with a note in my drafts forever and a day because I'm nervous. But what has that gotten me? 3 years without a new piece prior to starting my new job in August. I was paralyzed in my fear of not having a slam worthy piece overnight. Ridiculous right?
One thing that has become my mantra when I write is You can never get to the final draft if you don't put it out there first. I'm a notorious editor, there is no poem that I currently perform that is exactly like the first rendition. I think it's a skill of mine. I don't get too content with my work and I'm always looking over it with a fine tooth comb. But one thing that goes without saying is there's nothing to review if I don't put it out there! Common sense isn't always common though.
For the rest of the month I will be pushing myself to take it easy and be kind to my first draft!
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