Chapter 1: The Power of Experimentation

As a writer, I find myself pondering the risks I take within my craft. My current ambition is straightforward: I aim to share something daily that could benefit someone else. The essential question I pose is whether I can provide a useful tool, idea, or even a laugh to brighten someone’s day.

When starting out in the realm of writing, it’s challenging to predict what will resonate with readers. Therefore, experimentation becomes essential. You must be willing to explore various approaches to discover what truly works. The principle is simple: if you don't attempt, you won’t learn.

For my daily writing endeavor, I concentrate on conveying a primary concept or takeaway that readers can implement in their lives. Today’s focus is on the necessity of embracing new experiences, taking risks, and understanding that stumbling is part of the journey to success.

However, developing the mindset to embrace new challenges isn't as simple as flipping a switch. It's not just a one-time choice to become a proactive risk-taker. Instead, it’s a mentality that can either strengthen or weaken based on how frequently you engage with it.

For most of my career, I earned my living as a performer and speaker until the pandemic disrupted everything. The most rewarding moments in my presenting journey stemmed from taking risks, such as stepping off the stage during my first corporate event to connect with the audience. Human beings inherently crave genuine connection, which requires vulnerability and a willingness to take risks. I trust that applying this same adventurous spirit to my writing will yield positive results.

Two Types of Experiments Worth Trying

In my view, there are two categories of experiments that are valuable for writers.

The first involves adopting practices recommended by successful authors based on their experiences. For instance, I found a useful list of suggestions from notable writers on Medium that can serve as a foundation for my own experiments.

The second category is more innovative: it consists of trying out ideas that nobody else has considered. For example, I took an unconventional approach in my "About Me" section, which has significantly influenced my followers and helped me gain acceptance into various publications.

There are numerous aspects of writing where you can apply experimentation, from the content you produce to the methods you use for self-promotion and even your mental management. For instance, as I compose this piece, I feel the urge to check notifications for new followers or engagements. The social media landscape can induce anxiety, much like platforms such as Twitter or Facebook.

To achieve my goal of delivering something valuable today, I must resist the temptation to fixate on past analytics. I made a commitment to myself to publish daily before assessing what worked or didn’t.

In pursuit of this commitment, I decided to create a “cease and desist” order for myself, which now hangs over my desk as a reminder to focus on value creation before seeking validation.

Rick Lewis Archives

This playful experiment aims to enhance my productivity and mindfulness in delivering value. (If you're interested, you can find a template for your own order here.)

Experimentation has always been the catalyst for positive changes in my life. Not every attempt has been successful, but even failed experiments have provided valuable lessons.

Here's a brief story of an experiment from my past that, despite being momentarily embarrassing, transformed my life.

Chapter 2: Simple Writing Experiments to Enhance Engagement

If you’re looking for ways to invigorate your writing practice, consider these experiments that have previously helped me stay engaged:

1. Cut Down on Word Count

   Take a draft of your article and try reducing it by half. Analyze whether the clarity improves.

2. Compliment a Competitor

   Find a fellow writer whose work you admire and publicly praise them instead of thinking they have enough recognition.

3. Establish a Writing Uniform

   The attire you choose can significantly influence your mindset. Consider developing a writing uniform to foster positive associations with productive writing sessions.

As Ralph Waldo Emerson wisely stated, “Don’t be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make, the better.”

So, fellow writers, what new experiment will you embark on today?