How I Unearthed My Writing Talent: Embracing Dad’s Profound Wisdom.
“Start somewhere limited” may not legally be an actual company name. It’s a catchphrase, more or less a piece of advice my dad would often give, passionately encouraging people to always take action, start from somewhere, and grow from there even if they don’t have all the resources they need. He would softly echo, “Start somewhere limited,” and Here’s how I almost failed to see the wisdom hidden behind those words.
After endless days in my cubbyhole, a space filled with indecisiveness and the lingering scent of old tea, I finally summoned the courage to translate my thoughts into words. Little did I know, this act would bring to the surface a hidden skill that had always been a part of me.
Before ever contemplating dabbling into the formalities of writing, I already found myself crafting articles, personal posts, study personal statements, copy editing, cover letters, and written comments, you name it—all for friends, colleagues, and friends of friends, and of course for free value.
There were also moments when I would peruse my jotters, Absurdly expecting to find the key to unlocking the universe’s mysteries. Instead, what greeted me was a sea of inky words– a mix of ideas, thoughts, and observations on every topical issue, from the mundane to the profound as if I had stumbled upon a forgotten treasure trove of my mind. Amidst these scribbles, there were even a few half-baked rap lyrics, a reminder of my fleeting dreams of becoming the next J. Cole, even though I had no horned talent in that department.
There and then, the penny dropped. turned out, I was already on the threshold of a writer's journey, even before aspiring to master the craft. It was innate I suppose, yet undiscovered and untapped. How I managed to overlook the ability for so long still goes over my head like a UFO… I probably would have thought at the time writing was boring, thinking it alone wouldn’t suffice without mastering monetization skills (How amateur?), which unfortunately then led to a misguided pursuit for knowledge in areas where I ultimately failed to thrive, leaving my writing potential unnoticed.
Influenced by gurus or (not-so guru), mostly on X, who were more interested in selling their products than actually helping people. Getting all caught up in their hype I forgot to listen to my intuition, copying strategies, and implementing models that led nowhere. Until a divine intuition woke me up, like the proverbial “smack” by the African parents, redirecting my focus inward, urging me to embrace my unique talents. My face still itches, but dare I say, the clarity is profound. It felt like reconnecting with an old friend, a part of me that I had neglected for too long.
As I mulled over those moments of diffidence, I couldn’t help but think about the people who validated my writing abilities, even when I thought I had no clue, all giving their heartfelt thanks (leaving me with glowing testimonials) which served as beacon of encouragement, bringing genuine happiness and relief, as if Thor’s hammer had lifted off my chest. Recognizing indecision as another form of procrastination, I decided to tap dance on the keyboard, leveraging my ability to write without overthinking the rest. Just as embracing that old friend, it wasn’t just warmth I felt; it was as if a truckload of inspiration pulled up to my doorstep, with a side of playful banter.
Embarking on the delightful journey of self-discovery felt like locating the last page of a book, finally bringing closure to the narrative. As I embraced the unknown, the handwriting on the wall transformed from a blurry scribble to a font so clear, that even my indecisive GPS would envy it. It was like finding a missing piece of a puzzle — you know, the one you’ve been searching for with the dedication of a detective in a noir film.
Thinking back, those moments unveiled a profound truth that sometimes, the most valuable skills reside within us, waiting to be discovered. It’s the act of embracing our natural skills before seeking external validation that propels us towards Self-understanding. It is a fervent reminder that we all have something to offer, and we can start from where we are and grow from there.
Well, the ink on my writing journey is still wet and glistening with potential, just waiting to be read and enjoyed, and I am thrilled to share this piece, embracing its brevity and raw edges with a sense of pride. The power of starting is unparalleled, and taking that first step is the key to enhancing an untapped potential.
So, take a deep breath, take a step back. Let’s break the cycle together. Share your thoughts or experiences, and let’s create a community, a supportive one. Remember! Grain by grain, a loaf; stone by stone, a palace. Even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.
Take that step.
Start somewhere limited.
See you in the next one.
If you’re rich, and you somehow felt inspired, you could kindly drop ol' boy a tip Here😁
