Chapter 1: The Contest That Sparked Inspiration

In May, I had the opportunity to participate in a writing contest organized by one of my favorite authors, Bin Jiang. I thought, "Why not give it a shot?" This was the second contest he had orchestrated; the first one was enjoyable to follow, even though I didn’t compete.

The primary motivation for entering this round was to reignite that competitive drive I once had during my days as a freelance writer. When I first joined Freelancer.com, I lacked a comprehensive portfolio that would entice clients to choose me. Winning a project after submitting a bid felt almost unattainable.

From a client’s perspective, this makes sense. If you had the choice between two freelancers—one with several positive reviews and another with none—who would you pick? Naturally, you'd favor the one with proven experience.

However, there was a contest feature on the platform that provided an excellent opportunity for freelancers at every skill level. All you needed to do was review the contest guidelines and submit your best work. After the deadline, the contest host would evaluate all submissions and select their favorite.

At a time before generative AI tools like ChatGPT emerged, I dedicated myself to this process and managed to win around five contests. The feedback from contest holders allowed me to build a solid portfolio, ultimately leading to my success as a five-star rated freelancer for an extended period.

Then came 2022, when generative AI significantly impacted the freelance writing landscape. Participating in Bin's contest brought back a rush of nostalgic memories, and discovering my win a few days ago was truly exhilarating. After all, a little healthy competition is an essential part of life.

Chapter 2: Essential Tips for Contest Participants

Before I conclude, here are three crucial tips for anyone considering entering a contest in the future, whether on this platform or elsewhere:

1. Read the Instructions Thoroughly: While being a talented writer is advantageous, it doesn’t guarantee success. The guidelines exist for a reason; misunderstanding them could jeopardize your chances of winning.
2. Don’t Rush Your Submission: Most contests provide ample time for entries. Begin preparing your submission early to allow yourself sufficient time to refine your work. Rushing at the last minute often leads to subpar results.
3. Give It Your All: Remember that you're likely up against worthy competitors. Aim to win rather than merely showcase your skills. Complacency can lead to mediocrity, which could hinder your success.

Keep these tips in mind, along with other specific requirements, and you’ll be well-prepared to excel in any contest you enter.

A heartfelt congratulations to fellow talented writers Barbara J. Martin and Dorottya Becz, who also emerged victorious in the contest. Be sure to explore their stories!

Lastly, I extend my gratitude to Bin Jiang for organizing this wonderful contest.

Thank you for reading! My new publication, Express Impact, is still welcoming new writers.