My Journey Towards Finding My Voice

As a writer, I was conditioned to think that my viewpoints were secondary to those of others. In academic settings, we are trained to meticulously research and substantiate our arguments. While this method has its advantages, it often restricts personal expression and individual voice. However, during that literature course, everything changed. Our professor encouraged us to celebrate our unique voices, insisting that our opinions matter and are worthy of being shared. They cautioned us that overcoming our previous writing habits would be our greatest challenge — a sentiment I found to be true for myself.

A New Dawn on Medium

After years of being an enthusiastic reader on Medium, I finally mustered the courage to share my own thoughts on the platform. At first, I stuck to the familiar writing styles I had adopted — discussing topics like real estate, economics, and finance from academic or business lenses. Yet, one day, a realization hit me: I could write as I was encouraged to do in that life-changing literature class. The thrill of recognizing that my personal voice could shine through in my writing was exhilarating.

A Shift in Writing Perspective

Moving forward, I consciously decided to adopt a specific format for my Medium articles that amplifies my personal voice. First and foremost, I acknowledge the significance of my opinions. I no longer want to hide behind a facade of objectivity; I want my readers to engage with my authentic voice, raw and unapologetic.

Moreover, I now see an extensive range of subjects waiting for my unique perspective. While my previous writings were confined to specific areas, I now understand the potential to explore topics encompassing culture, society, and personal experiences without the restrictions of technical or academic writing.

To enhance the effect of my writing, I embrace the use of examples and anecdotes. These personal touchstones allow readers to connect with my thoughts and experiences. By weaving relatable stories into my narrative, I aim to evoke emotions and foster a deeper bond with my audience.

Additionally, I realize the importance of recognizing opposing viewpoints. Writing solely from my perspective would limit the richness of the conversation. By presenting counterarguments and acknowledging differing opinions, I aim to invite readers into a dialogue rather than a one-sided discussion. This method encourages critical thinking and promotes a broader understanding of the subject.

Lastly, I recognize the value of research in reinforcing my arguments. While personal voice is the foundation of my writing, it requires supporting evidence. Therefore, I commit to integrating credible research and data into my articles whenever possible. By combining personal experiences with well-supported claims, I aim to provide a balanced perspective that resonates with readers.

The Impact of My Journey

As I begin to apply this new approach, I hope for an overwhelmingly positive response. I envision readers engaging with my articles in ways I have never experienced before, with feedback confirming that the power of personal voice transcends mere words on a page. It can touch hearts, spark discussions, and create a sense of community.

Through my journey on Medium, I have come to understand that my words can leave a lasting impression. It is no longer about conforming to conventional writing styles but about daring to be vulnerable and genuine. By embracing my personal voice, I have not only found empowerment but also a pathway to a more enriching writing experience.

Let Me Conclude

Our writing journeys often lead us down unexpected paths. For me, it has been the realization that my personal voice deserves to be acknowledged. As I step into the world of Medium with a renewed writing approach, I aspire for my articles to flourish, capturing the attention and hearts of readers. This journey reinforces the belief that our opinions matter, and by sharing them authentically, we can cultivate meaningful connections.

The first video, "Find Your Voice: Seven Easy Steps to Craft Your Unique Style as a Writer" with Sara Letourneau, offers practical guidance on developing a personal writing style. This insightful session encourages writers to embrace their individuality and express their thoughts authentically.

The second video, "How to Express Your Voice in Academic Writing," provides strategies for integrating personal voice into formal writing. This resource is invaluable for those seeking to balance academic rigor with genuine expression.