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A 1% Better Writer

By Jared Dees

What if we approached each project asking ourselves: “How can I make this 1% better?

This is a great growth mindset question.

Today, if I were to sit down to work on my book and think about the ways I can make it 1% better, I would be more willing to put in the grunt work of clarifying language. I would go and find the right story or example to replace what I have there now. I would forgive myself for writing something imperfect and mediocre because I’m not seeking perfection all in one sitting. I know I’ll come back to it and make it 1% better later.

The alternative is the fixed mindset approach.

What if I let the fear or failure overwhelm me? If my goal is success instead of improvement, the work will suffer. I would use the writing as an opportunity to prove myself rather than improve myself. The gap between where I am and where I want to be could be paralyzing. The amount of work needed to get done can be overwhelming.

Make each writing session an opportunity for improvement and learning. Your work will be better for it.

November 17, 2017 Filed Under: Author Tips, On Writing, Productivity

About Jared Dees

Jared Dees is passionate about sharing practical resources to teach faith. He is best known for his website The Religion Teacher and is the author of many books including 31 Days to Becoming a Better Religious Educator, Christ in the Classroom, and Beatitales: 80 Fables about the Beatitudes for Children.

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Jared Dees is passionate about sharing practical resources to teach faith. He is best known for his website The Religion Teacher and is the author of many books including 31 Days to Becoming a Better Religious Educator, Christ in the Classroom, and Beatitales: 80 Fables about the Beatitudes for Children. See all of Jared's Books →

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