I know it just takes practice

So, allegedly, practice makes perfect.

That's the rumour I've heard, anyway. And this mantra apparently applies to pretty much everything in life:

• Have a big, important presentation at work? Better practice reading those notes in front of the mirror.
• Entering a hot-dog eating competition? Better practice stuffing your gullet with that tasty meat by-product.
• Up for a major award? Better practice both your "Oh my gosh, I won!" surprise face, and your "How could they pick that guy when I'm so much better?" gracious loser face.

The same thing applies to writing: practice it until you get hand cramps...or carpel tunnel from typing. Everybody says it. And by everybody, I mean the Internet.

Ironically, I don't just like to write on my blog; I like to read blogs as well. (Go figure: a writer who reads, too. What will they think of next?)

Because I am a self-proclaimed nerd about all things writing and grammar and stuff, I tend to gravitate to those types of blogs. And those types of blogs, at one time or another, talk about practicing your writing.

They say, "Write anything, as long as you write every single day."

Okay, here goes my attempt at "anything":

*tumbleweeds flying by...because in my writing-avoidance world, tumbleweeds do, in fact, fly, not tumble*

That's a lot of pressure. But, it's stupid pressure that only I am responsible for. I freak myself out, thinking I have to write the next great American novel each time I sit down at my computer. And as much as I tell myself to, in fact, get over myself, I still feel that twinge of fear every single time.

And, it sucks. A LOT.

But, when I think about it, I write every single day at my job. That's what I'm paid to do. And believe me, my work writing has improved tremendously over the last several years.

Why do you think that is?

Because I practiced it over and over again.

I never said to my boss, "I'm sorry, I can't write that internal notice for you today because I'm scared." No, I strapped on a set and dove into it headfirst. And while some of my earlier drafts were complete crap, I took note of the crappy parts and removed them from my writing style.

See? Practice.

So, I need to discipline myself to make this my regular habit. Now, I may not be posting on the blog every day or anything (don't want to get your hopes up with unrealistic expectations), but I'd like to try being a little more regular in my writing adventures.

Since the rest of me is pretty much perfect already, why not throw a little more practice into the mix, huh?