by M. J. Joachim

Created on: March 02, 2009

Self Motivating Contests Tips

They're so tempting, aren't they? Those contests with all of their titles seem to call out to us. "Write to me. Write to me," they urge. Before we know it, we are swept up in the world of competition, trying to prove we know our topic better than everyone else.

I try to choose categories with familiarity when I write. However, I am careful not to be an expert in my titles of preference. My lazy side would get the best of me, and the writing would suffer as a result. It is important to write to subjects we understand, as much as ones that challenge us to learn something.

Most of the contests at http://www.helium.com/ run for about 2 weeks. During the first week, I organize my thoughts and make necessary notes. I begin by copying the contest titles into a word document. Mentally, I sort them from the easiest to the hardest. I also determine what references are available for my research. Using the resources at my disposal, I study the subject matter.

Once I am well rehearsed in my topic, I begin to write and submit articles, beginning with the easy titles first. By the time I have finished producing 4 or 5 articles, I'm ready for a change of scenery, and subject matter. This usually happens toward the last part of the first week.

It is now time to learn something new, as I begin researching the little unknowns meant to challenge me in my topic. With my title list in hand, I head straight for the library. Using the catalog, I look up anything and everything that could possibly relate to my subject matter. I write down the numbers in the general area, and take my time perusing the books there.

This little outing refreshes my spirit, and enables me to continue the task at hand. I spend the next several hours becoming familiar with new details that have escaped my expertise. Sometimes this prompts a second outing, or phone call, to a nearby museum or business relating to my topic.

Armed with fresh and exciting information, I begin generating articles at an alarming rate. The adrenalin rush is upon me as I race to the deadline, hoping to prove I have what it takes to win the coveted prize. I take note of my competitors, and start the process of proofreading my work.

At this point, I am no longer challenging other contestants, but myself. I know that to win, I must enter my best work. The value of my work represents who I am. Short changing myself in a contest, would defeat the purpose of entering.

Suddenly, my motivational factors have changed from being focused on my competitors, to seriously testing my own ability of being able to express my knowledge. I now face the responsibility of every writer who experiences being judged by an audience. It is time to believe in myself, and trust that the best man will win.

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