What’s the thing you read when you want to remember how to write?
I read my old writing and remind myself that I’ve had the audacity to write things that were “good enough” but not perfect for quite some time, now.
What’s the best thing you read in the past month?
Who’s the Twitter follow that hasn’t let you down, since the beginning?
I’ve been following my brother @JoelakaMaG for as long as I can remember — he writes about mental health, healing, community, fatherhood, and other things that are deeply important to me. We clicked before we met in real life, based on the thoughts we chose to share on platforms like Twitter. Now, we live down the street from each other and he’s my daughter’s godfather.
Tell us a way you’re excited to see people use Notes?
Twitter has historically removed barriers to entry for people who write interesting, innovative, and hilarious things — many of whom don’t even think of themselves as “writers.” People who have great ideas, but have never been audacious enough to pitch a concept to a large publication, have shared thoughts that have sparked culturally impactful conversations, changed the way we think about life, and resonated with hundreds of thousands or even millions of people. I’m excited to see the unorthodox ways that all of the brilliant people on Twitter use Notes to share perspectives, ideas, and thoughts that might otherwise go unheard.
What’s a piece of writing advice that’s held true for you?
I forget where I first heard this, because it’s said often — but for good reason: “just get the first draft out.” I’ve learned that oftentimes my writers’ block stems from my desire to get things “right” on the first draft. As a perpetual over-thinker, I’ve broken out of so many writers’ slumps by giving myself space to write without judging what I’m writing.
How would you describe your relationship with your readers? (especially if it’s evolved)
I write content for people who are learning themselves and working towards the version of success that they want while pushing back against imposter syndrome. We genuinely want each other to win. We cheer for each other, encourage each other, and help where we can.
