Embrace the Power of Daily Writing: A Transformative Journey
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Chapter 1: The Journey Begins
About five months ago, I enrolled in Cohort #8 of a three-week online course called Summit 21, led by Niharikaa Kaur Sodhi. Her mission is to help individuals establish a habit of daily writing, and she truly reigns supreme across various social media platforms. Whether it's LinkedIn, Medium, or Twitter, her presence is felt through a wealth of captivating content. She embodies a vibrant energy.
“Humans are the only species that are either possessed by or obsessed with various energies!” — Ramana Pemmaraju
Initially, I struggled to maintain the enthusiasm required to write each of the 21 days; ultimately, I decided to listen to my instincts. I utilized my vacation time and the different time zones to request a spot in Cohort #9 when it became available. Niharika graciously accepted my request.
As October approached, I began to feel anxious. Questions raced through my mind: Shalu, are you ready to commit to daily publishing on Twitter? Do you have a clear message for Medium? Will you forsake the personal growth you've experienced in your corporate role by sharing on LinkedIn?
When I attended the kickoff meeting for Cohort #9, I listened as the other 15 participants shared their commitments and set their expectations. I remained silent, filled with uncertainty.
Week 1: I composed a few Haikus on Medium and shared a post on LinkedIn, still feeling unsure of myself.
Week 2: I missed the closure meeting for Week 1 but caught up by watching Jon Brosio's guest session recording. One insight from his journey—transitioning from a waiter to a writer and being discovered by a CEO at Medium—resonated deeply: Keep moving forward, and the path will reveal itself.
“Just as Jon found his voice through Quora and Medium after persistent writing, I too can discover my voice and the audience that connects with it,” I reassured myself, committing to a compassionate journey.
During the Week 2 closure meeting, I found myself among peers who had not missed a single day of writing over the past two weeks. Some had discovered their daily writing rhythm; others had developed a structure that resonated with their audience, while some had learned the intricacies of algorithms and optimal posting times.
Niharikaa's encouraging influence gradually inspired me, and I began to perceive the invisible thread connecting us all. After that session, I made a bold choice: I removed Instagram and LinkedIn from my phone and penned in my journal that I would whisper my stories to the page for 100 days. I simply listened.
After 100 days (or 96 more), I will revisit my questions: Are you prepared to publish daily on Twitter? Do you possess clarity for your Medium messages? Will you surrender the growth you've achieved in your corporate journey by sharing on LinkedIn?
Until that moment, there’s no pressure. Just stay engaged!
Is developing a daily publishing habit something I desire? The answer remains unclear.
However, I am resolute in my intention to fail at the habit of not writing every day.
Here I am, on Day 4 of my 100-day writing challenge, Day 4 of resisting old habits, and Day 4 of forming new ones.
Thanks to Medium for being a welcoming platform!
If I can do it, anyone can. I wish you all the invisible thread necessary to liberate yourselves from the gravitational pull of old habits—whether that comes from determination, willpower, or a supportive partner to help you stay focused. Go! One day at a time!
Who is this individual sharing their journey? I am a proud parent, a woman in technology, and a self-proclaimed "DIP" (Discoveries-in-Progress). My mission is to redefine what it means to lead and belong—both in the workplace and within our families and communities. You can follow my journey here.