Writing can be a daunting task for anyone, especially for those who haven't done it before.

Much like when we experience glossophobia on stage, we tend to think that our words have no meaning or value to others. That we will just repeat what everyone else has said, yet, there are still people writing books everyday.

"Glossophobia: fear of public speaking" - www.macmillandictionary.com

So, what do I mean by saying that "writing can also be a teacher"?

Well, you have probably heard of this quote before:

"Heeded my words not, did you? Pass on what you have learned. Strength, mastery. But weakness, folly, failure also. Yes, failure most of all. The greatest teacher, failure is." - Master Yoda, Star Wars.

Writing can also be a teacher as well.

When to start

Last week, during one of my lunch breaks, I was sharing my experience about how welcoming the DEV community can be for people of all skill levels and one of my colleagues commented about some of my previous posts while the other continued to just keep eating. But there's one thing that really stood out from the conversation.

We were only 3 people on that table and the most quiet one said:

"I don't even know what could I begin with. I don't think I know enough about anything to actually write about it." - Colleague #1

And both Colleague #2 and I stopped really quick, looked at each other and then looked at him as we both said:

"That's the key." - Colleague #2 and I.

Then, Colleague #2 continued with:

"Putting yourself in that situation will require you to do your best. Whether it comes from pure curiosity or just the fear of being told that you are wrong by your readers." - Colleague #2.

And then we continued to explain how it would push him to reach a higher level of understanding about the topic he chooses. No matter how simple it might be.

So, when should you start writing? A long time ago.

Being wrong

Let me quote a fragment of what Colleague #2 previously said:

"[...] or just the fear of being told that you are wrong by your readers." - Colleague #2.

This is the most powerful thing that can happen.

Yes. Being told you are wrong.

Initially, it can be heart broken. Who knows how many hours you spent writing that down? How many edits were needed before you finally released it?.

All that doesn't matter.

What was your initial purpose with writing? Teaching others or expressing yourself.

That ugly comment that proves your whole theory wrong is the best thing that can happen. Because now you know how not to it.

The End.