Class complete: Writing on my own terms

I am a writer. Plain and simple. I have endless ideas, thoughts, dreams and fantasies that I can and will put to paper. I have drive, ambition and a natural tendency to make my writing aspirations come to life.

I have completed my first ever on-line writing class.

I was a sort of pseudo-journalist back in high school for our newspaper. I wrote some columns and covered many of our school’s stories. Shortly thereafter, despite having dreams of becoming a journalist, I somehow ended up on a different path. I have no regrets, but the passion to write has been reborn.

This class was the first step toward writing on my own accord. I am writing without the direction or influence of any teacher or manager. I am writing on my own terms. I am writing because it is what my inner being is driving me to do.

I am only in my early 30’s. I have a very strong career with a healthy salary; with plenty of challenges to keep me interested and motivated. I have a great house and a loving wife. We hope kids will be in our near future.

So, then, why would I be spending a huge chunk of my valuable free time writing? Because I can. And it is what I am supposed to do.

I am an avid runner and marathoner. I am fortunate enough to have pushed myself to qualify for the Boston Marathon. Between running and writing, these are my passions. This is a very poignant change that has occured for me over the past couple of years. Career has taken an intriguing slip in the priorities.

My next two goals are to submit for two upcoming contests, both of which are sponsored by Writer’s Journal magazine:

1. Write to win! contest – 1,500 word limit – Starting with the phrase “He reached for…” – Deadline, April 20, 2007.

2. Short story contest – 2,000 word limit – Deadline: May 30, 2007

In addition, I am contemplating taking a Creative Writing course online that begins on March 21. However, I do need to carefully balance these plans with my work, running and personal activities. I don’t wish to overload myself into frustration, grief and failure.

See more progress on: write a book and have it published