Slow And Steady Wins The Race

I was inspired to write this after discovering a song on Spotify called Patience by the London-based artist Ray Blk. In it, she goes into detail about how she's fine patiently waiting for her moment to shine in a day in age where everyone wants to be famous and is willing to swap their dignity to make it on the A-list. My favorite verse is

They're running just to get in first placeI'm walking going at my own placeI'm greatThey say slow and steady wins the raceAin't wrong of us for trying to flyThey're fading like we're losing the skyI'm fine waiting, for my payday

I can't really explain why this song resonated with me as deeply as it did, but I suspect it's because I had been thinking about how to define an "authentic experience" and whether I was, in fact, having one in my creative journey.  As I've pondered on the future of this blog and how long it'll take for it to become as successful as it's destined to be, I've found myself thinking about the now.  I thought about whether I was, in fact, having an authentic experience as I evolve as a writer, or if I was trying to take a shortcut in some way. If I was taking a shortcut then I wouldn't be maximizing the lessons I could learn. At first thought, I gave myself a firm yes. Hell yes, this is authentic, I'm putting in the work for this every single day, so no I'm not taking the easy way out.

There's no way.

As it turns out, I was wrong. I had been taking what I thought was a shortcut in my attempt to become a successful writer, but it was actually to my detriment. I've gone about it in a way that wouldn't be apparent to anyone but myself, but after reflecting, I couldn't deny that deep down inside I knew I was wearing a protective veil that the most successful people don't dare wear. As a writer, I was consciously avoiding testy topics and purposely choosing not to stir the pot. I figured I could graze along being mostly neutral and have everyone like me because I wasn't "too much" of anything.  I actually thought that by somehow not offending people it would make me a successful blogger! But I realized that that's bullshit, that's not who I am. Plus, people get offended by everything so it wouldn't have made a difference.

AND, this is my blog so why shouldn't I write about whatever tf I want?

 I was able to pinpoint the motivation behind my shortcut, and it should come as no surprise that it was rooted in fear of rejection ( isn't it always). The truth of the matter is I'll gain more respect for actually being me. People pick up on honesty, and that's why they choose to stick around. So, if I want to be the real deal I must be honest and that honesty is going to result in controversial (but heartfelt) material. There's no way around it.

I'm pledging to take no more shortcuts from here on out.

 When I take the easy way out not only do I sell myself short, but you too! I know that you're just waiting for someone to say it.

To talk about the really important things everyone is afraid to say.

You're not the only one!

I've been thinking it too!

I promise. I GOTCHU.

Moral of the story is, you will get to where you want to be in due time. The most important thing is to be true to your journey and to maximize on the lessons along the way. Taking shortcuts to "keep up" or to avoid rockin' the boat (like I was doing) so people can like you won't actually help you in the future it just seems like it! Of course, opportunities will come along to simplify your life, and those shortcuts should be taken. BUT when it comes to your evolution and journey as a person, no shortcuts should be taken there. Embrace the good and the bad, and have faith that it's all for a reason!

***Have YOU been taking any shortcuts on your journey at becoming great at your craft? If so, think about the long-term effects of this approach and weigh out your perceived "pros" to the real life" cons". It's probably not worth it! Being bad at something while you learn more about your craft, gaining haters, or even realizing the way you've been thinking and working isn't proactive IS PART OF THE JOURNEY. Be honest with yourself and think about your real long-term goals. Are your shortcuts actually helping, or hindering the beautiful future you see for yourself? Change accordingly and adapt for the best!***