In support of ugly starts

Jaycee Lewis — Sat, 16 May 2020 22:34:04 +0000

I think about writing, and coding and writing about coding, but often don't write anything at all. Desire isn't the issue. Nor a lack of fundamentals. The number one thing holding me back from daily writing is perfectionism. I had the same problem with learning to code 🖥

I want to write like someone who's written daily for five years, but I'm not even close to that level. The truth is I need to write small, consistent posts and publish weekly. Steady beats perfect every time 💯

Here are some lessons I learned from attempting multiple #100DaysOfCode that I am applying to writing ✍️

👩🏻‍💻 Getting started is fucking terrifying.

👩🏻‍💻 Getting started takes guts.

👩🏻‍💻 Getting started means others might see. And judge.

👩🏻‍💻 Getting started means I can fail. Publicly.

👩🏻‍💻 Getting started means failing more than once.

👩🏻‍💻 Getting started is free.

👩🏻‍💻 Getting started requires no permission.

👩🏻‍💻 Getting started means admitting you have more to learn.

👩🏻‍💻 Getting started means the possibility of making a mark, scratch, or dent in the world.

Writing doesn't have to be 1500 words and ten images. Writing can be 100 words and a couple of pretty pictures you found on Unsplash Get your shit out there. Let them see how much you've grown 💪

Coding doesn't have to be a full-featured app or gallery-quality portfolio site. Push some code to Github, connect a domain, and get your janky portfolio out published. Tweak, add, and upgrade often 🛠

(Cover image by https://unsplash.com/@godje )

DEV Community: Jaycee Lewis

In support of ugly starts