We all have demons that derail our writing productivity. Perfectionism. Writer’s block. For me, it’s imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome strikes when I least expect it, usually when I’m excited to write a story. I’ll be browsing Medium for inspiration when an engaging story mesmerizes me. “I could never write like…

We all know that consistent writing leads to growth and progress. But with busy lives full of work, family, and other obligations, sitting down to write every day can feel daunting or even impossible. The key is finding a flexible routine that works with your lifestyle. Instead of forcing yourself into a rigid 30-day challenge, start smaller. Block out just 15–30…

As I sift through my old Medium stories, I’m tempted to crawl under a rock. Grammatical errors stare back at me, mocking my novice writing skills. Cliche quotes lay scattered about, revealing my desperation to sound profound. The narratives feel forced, as if I’m trying to shove square pegs into…

The cursor blinks accusingly. I crack my knuckles, stretch my arms overhead, and stall for time. I know I should start writing, but whose interests should I prioritize — mine or my readers’? This familiar inner battle plays out every time I start writing. My eyes volley between two opponents vying for my attention: Writing for Me and Writing for Them. …

You stroll into the gym with bulking up on your mind. Your sleeves are rolled up, ready to pump some iron and pack on muscle. But then your gaze falls upon the treadmills and stationary bikes. That little voice pipes up: “Maybe I’ll just do some cardio first to warm…

You arrive at the gym, ready to tackle your workout. As your cardio warm-up starts, you glance around and notice nearly everyone else is also on the treadmills, bikes, and ellipticals. Cardio rules the gym floor. But is cardio truly the key to fitness success? That endless churning of your…

We’ve all had those days where even the thought of getting out of bed feels like moving a mountain. The alarm goes off and your body refuses to budge as your mind cycles through all the obligations awaiting you — work projects, endless errands, family commitments, and more. “I’ll just…

Do you remember the days when frozen yogurt shops were popping up on every street corner faster than you could say “non-fat with sprinkles”? For a while there in the early 2010s, froyo was having a serious moment. Sweet Frog, 16 Handles, Menchie’s — brightly colored new stores were oozing into empty retail spaces like a swirl of tart yogurt through a soft-serve machine. …

Do you love tulips? I mean really, really love tulips? Enough to sell everything you own, empty your bank account, and go into debt — all to get your hands on a few bulbs? That’s exactly what happened in the Netherlands in the early 1600s, in one of history’s most…