What this is all about

A magazine once asked the question - "What makes a true Minnesotan?"   For whatever reason, the question couldn't leave my head, and I had to give my answer.   A few months later, I find out that I've won the contest.  Not only am I totally thrilled, but suddenly I feel like I need to write a novel.

I gave it a shot, it turned out to be more of a "novella",  but overall I was pleased with it, so I searched for a place to publish it.  Google brought me to some self-publishing sites, and one of which was having a contest.  I bristled at the opportunity to have my extraordinary work in the running for prizes again.  Turns out my little contribution needed a lot of help.

I still dream of writing a best selling novel one day.  Many people do.  I know that in order for me to be successful in that endeavor, my writing skills have to be top notch.  Coming from an athletic background, I know that excellence is developed through practice.   Even superstar talents hone their skills.  As an aspiring writer, I needed a way to sharpen my craft - enter competitive writing.

I find that competition is a great way to force myself to practice writing.  There are usually themes, and most importantly, deadlines.  I started dabbling here and there and soon something strange started happening.  I found my desire for novel writing supplanted by the thrill of competing in contests.

I still view contests as a tool to enhance my writing, but I'd be a liar if I didn't admit that there were alternative motives involved.  I'm writing to win.

This blog will chronicle my journeys, my successes and failure,  as well as share the lessons I learned along the way.

Sit back, enjoy, and welcome to the world of The Competitive Writer.