Writing Dream

What I learned about obedience, focus, and finding my true calling.

Sometimes obedience looks less like striving and more like listening.

If I could change one thing about pursuing my writing dream, it would be this: I started without a map.

I never saw myself as a writer. That career path never crossed my mind.

One of my most significant issues is “shiny object syndrome.” Especially when I begin something new — a project, challenge, or career — I’m the type to jump in headfirst. I want all the cool tools that come with whatever I’m doing. Usually, I don’t dip my toe in the water; I dive right in.

I learned this the hard way. I jumped in headfirst, convinced I could handle it all. But without focus, even good intentions can wear you down. I wasn’t just tired; I was drained and directionless.

That kind of approach creates problems — and starting a writing career was no different. I got so caught up in all the information and new classes that soon I felt overwhelmed, spinning my wheels and going nowhere. I probably have more information than I know what to do with.

At one point, I was juggling three self-paced classes and two live online courses. Talk about unrealistic expectations — especially when you’re also your dad’s primary caregiver.

Talk about putting unnecessary pressure on myself. That schedule is unmanageable for most people. Add in the uncertainty of when I might need to step away from live, online classes to care for my dad, and it’s easy to see how I reached my breaking point.

I learned this the hard way. I was chasing every promising path, never sure which one God actually wanted me on. I wasn’t just tired; I was questioning if writing was really His calling for me.

Obedience isn’t about how many things you can juggle. It’s about listening for the one thing God is actually asking you to do. I’ve learned that when you focus on a few things and do them well, you’ll go much farther than scattering your energy everywhere. Busyness isn’t the same as obedience.

The moment I stopped chasing everything, I started hearing something — His direction.

If you’re chasing a dream, maybe what you need isn’t more tools — but a mentor to keep you grounded.

If I started all over again, I would begin with a mentor. Here’s why.

First, it would establish guardrails to keep me focused. My mentor would help me figure out exactly what I want to do. That way, I could concentrate on one thing.

I’d definitely have a faster start and gain traction in building my writer’s life. Plus, I know I perform better in a more structured environment when I first start. Believe me, I can fall into a lot of rabbit holes.

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” — Proverbs 15:22

Sometimes, God’s greatest gift is a voice that keeps us focused on the call, not the clutter.

What’s got you spinning? Maybe what you need isn’t another course — but someone to help you hear the call through the clutter.

🌿 One Dreams Writing — Faith-filled reflections for life’s everyday turning points.