by Mandie Finley

Created on: May 03, 2008   Last Updated: May 07, 2008

Since I was in the fourth grade, all I ever dreamed of was being a writer. It didn't matter to me what form it took as long as I could write. With an extreme low self-esteem and complete lack of self-confidence in my ability I never thought that I could make it a reality. Slowly I have started taking the necessary steps to making this a reality. With the help of writing contests, I am slowly emerging from the darkness.

I have checked a few websites that have made me very displeased. They wanted a membership fee, or for me to pay them to write articles. Publishing fees, they called it. Then I found an incredible site that let me write a variety of articles or pieces. The greatest aspect of this site is that it has writing contests that are evaluated by my fellow writers. I can challenge myself by writing on a wide variety of subjects.

Sometimes there are contests that greatly interest me on a personal level and then there are subjects that challenge me on a professional level. The nice thing about the contests is that there are rules and guidelines.

With no out of pocket expense, I have gained confidence and esteem. I can write for these contests against individuals that may have more talent than me. By checking on my individual standings I can see exactly how I rate against my fellow writers.I positively love being able to compete in something that lets me be creative, passionate and informative. The exposure is just a side benefit of being recognized for the talent that you posses.

The exposure from this site is from other individuals that enjoy writing. My peers can send me an e-mail on my written work. It gives me gainful insight through constructive criticism, helpful hints or praise. The other type of exposure is from different companies looking for articles to publish in their sites. Don't get me wrong, exposure of one's abilities is great, however what you gain from the writing contest is the greatest gift.

I have grown as a writer and as an individual. My writing style has improved and so has my outlook on a lost dream. The evaluation from my peers and others has given me useful insight on how to improve. The competition of the contests keeps me motivated and more self critical. The deadlines keep me from being scared and putting of what needs to be done today.

All in all, Website writing contests have given me a great deal of positive exposure. Both professionally and as an individual. It challenges me to reach outside my comfort zone and write on unknown subjects, or lets me be me and passionate about something closer to my heart. To understand the fact that exposure comes second to most writers can be difficult. Just know that we are writing from the heart and with passion, and then comes recognition of doing a talented job well done.

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