30-day writing challenge: on hold

After some consideration, I've decided to put my 30-day writing challenge on hold. There is a simple reason: I'm going on vacation. When the challenge began, I had not considered it would overlap with this time off. And as much as I love the feeling of satisfaction which comes with an uninterrupted streak, being at least partially disconnected and free of obligations for an extended period is something my sanity requires.

It's astounding how much this decision has occupied my thoughts these last few days. I do get quite stubborn about following through on personal goals, and this was no exception.

That said, I'm comfortable with my decision, here's why:

• Writing a minimum of 300 words per day for 23 days straight is an achievement to be proud of.
• This experience has taught me a lot, and I forced myself to sometimes write about topics normally outside my areas of expertise.
• This challenge has helped dramatically reduce the apprehension I had towards writing. I have a lot less anxiety about publishing.
• Ideas come much more freely than before when I would sometimes stare at my screen for minutes contemplating the best way to express an idea.
• I feel that my writing skills are improving and spend a lot less time going back and re-writing parts of my posts.
• I genuinely liked this experiment and want to continue after this needed time off.

It's possible I decide to publish a thing or two while on vacation, but refuse to put any pressure on myself to do so.

The good thing is that I'm attending EthCC in Paris immediately after returning. The conference will surely an inspiration and encourage me to write even more. I'm very much looking forward to it.