18 Comments
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Joe Nichols's avatar

Love it! Though I admit I embraced the writer that I am a long time ago. I'm more of a sloppy joe than a filet mignon (unintentional pun). I can relate though, when I started the first post took me at least a dozen trips to and from the computer before I hit publish.

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Sarah-Frances McCormick's avatar

I love the sloppy Joe reference so much 😂. I do think I’m getting better at letting go of perfection with every published post (at least I hope so)

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Benjamin Sharp's avatar

This is wonderful. Thank you.

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Sarah-Frances McCormick's avatar

Thank you for reading, my friend ❤️. There is freedom is letting go of others opinions

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Michelle Reeves's avatar

Love this! As a recovering perfectionist I see myself reflected in your words. Have shared as I know for sure we're not alone!

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Jacinda's avatar

Whew this post is so me!! I’ve never considered myself a writer. Struggled with writing essays in school because I felt constricted. Now that I’m free to express my own thoughts, I also have a fear of sharing and being judged. But I also know that I have a gift to share with others. Vulnerability hard but I’m not giving up. Glad to know I’m not alone. I am going to check out the book, Morning Pages!

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Sarah-Frances McCormick's avatar

The book is called The Artist’s Way but the morning pages is one of the strategies she suggests! It has helped me tremendously! 10/10 recommend.

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Becky's avatar

So proud of you for taking this leap of faith and writing! Here for you anytime in this crazy writing journey we are both on!

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Sarah-Frances McCormick's avatar

Thank you, Becky!! The same to you ❤️❤️

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Trina Derenbecker's avatar

And thank you for calling your readers “beautiful people.” Yes!

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Sarah-Frances McCormick's avatar

Of course!! I am lucky to be supported by such an amazing community ❤️

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Deborah Woolard's avatar

Thank you for your honest essay. I don’t have the courage to do what you’re doing but am so proud of you. I remember the seventh-grade Sarah Frances and am delighted to read your work today. You are a fabulous person and I know your family is proud. Keep up the good/hard work - you are an inspiration!

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Sarah-Frances McCormick's avatar

Mrs. Woolard!!! It is so wonderful to reconnect! I have always remembered you as one of the "fun" teachers. Teachers like you made the biggest impact on kids (including myself)-- this is partly why I went into teaching in the first place. I am honored to know you are reading!! Thank you for your kind words.

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Deborah Woolard's avatar

Your words just tickled my heart! Thank you!

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choiv's avatar

This resonated with me so deeply! I was nodding at every word you shared here because I published my first post this morning with very similar thoughts. (If you care to read: https://draftingtable.substack.com/p/about-writing)

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Lindsay's avatar

I am just starting out here and resonate so deeply with what you’ve shared. Writing is so scary and also so deeply satisfying. It’s a love/hate for me haha. Wondering if you happen to be an INFJ/enneagram 4? Either way, so happy to have found you!

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Kyle Morrow's avatar

This resonates so deeply. As someone who writes about faith and life, I know that dance with perfectionism all too well. Your dad's wisdom about freedom from others' opinions? That's gold. Thank you for putting into words what so many of us feel but struggle to express. You've got a new subscriber who's excited to read more of your journey! 💫

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The 30 Year Shift's avatar

Thank you for sharing, can so relate ❤️

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