Writing is a creative journey in imperfection. I mean, it never fails. As soon as I hit publish, whether it’s a book, a social media post, or a newsletter or blog, there’s going to be something wrong with it. A typo. A break in the formatting. The wrong character name because I changed it in chapter ten and forgot to go back to chapter four and change it there as well. And it drives me nuts! Ask the girls, but I know they’re only going to tell you that that’s a short trip.
Still, I often find myself in a relentless quest for perfection. I strive for impeccable prose, flawless characters, and an immaculate plot. However, this fixation on perfection can stifle creativity and undermine the true essence of writing as a journey. It can also keep me from ever posting or publishing anything, and then what would I do with all these wild ideas? You see, the pursuit of perfection can often lead to creative paralysis. So, let me share with you five things I embrace in the creative process as a journey to publication and giving you the stories you’ve come to love.
The Creative Process as a Journey:
The Liberation of Imperfection:
Embracing imperfection liberates me—and other authors who embrace this journey—from the burden of unattainable standards. It allows me to take risks, experiment with new styles, and explore unconventional ideas. In this liberation, I find the true essence of creativity.
Writing is not about reaching a mythical state of perfection; it's about the journey I embark upon with each word, sentence, and story. Embracing imperfection doesn’t mean settling for mediocrity; it means acknowledging the beauty in the imperfect and understanding that it’s through imperfections that I grow as a writer. So, I’ve let go of the need for perfection, relishing the adventure of creation, and savoring every moment of my unique writing journey. After all, it's the imperfections that make the story uniquely mine, and it’s the journey that makes it all worthwhile.
Until next time, happy reading!
Robbie & the FGR Team