Two Minutes Du Jour

“A writer is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for others,” said Thomas Mann, a novelist and Nobel Prize recipient. This quote, which I recently read in The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl, reminded me of my journalism and English classes, and of the writing class that I used to teach at Metro State.

Writing is a process that involves wrestling with words, thoughts, and ideas to express something meaningful. It doesn’t always come easily. If I recall, Ernest Hemingway echoed this sentiment, famously stating, “I don’t like to write; I like having written.”

For many, writing feels like a chore. Whether by hand or digitally, writing can be incredibly rewarding. Writing forces us to pause, reflect, and clarify our thoughts. Even if it’s just jotting down a few lines in a journal, a hastily written idea in a notebook, or notes on your phone, writing contributes to personal growth.

The best writers are avid readers. When we expose ourselves to beautiful, compelling words, we train our minds to express ideas with greater clarity and creativity.

Find something so lovely that you want to read it out loud, experiencing the words with your ears as well as your eyes. Then find something so simple that you marvel at its clarity and economy of expression. Both experiences will sharpen your own sense of language and communication.

Take Two Minutes Du Jour, for example. While these posts are designed to be quick reads, they take more than two minutes to write. The process requires thought, clarity, and light editing to ensure the message connects with you. It’s about expression not perfection and sharing ideas to spark exploration and discovery.

If you do not journal or write regularly, try starting small. Grab a notebook or open a blank document and let your thoughts flow. Write without editing. Don’t worry about spelling or grammar—just capture what’s in your mind. You’ll surprise yourself when you revisit those words later and discover how revealing they are.

Writing doesn’t have to be polished or perfect; it just needs to exist. Whether it’s a to-do list, a letter, or a journal entry, written expression offers a chance to process emotions, reflect on experiences, and grow. Start today—write something, anything. You’ll be amazed at the insights waiting to be discovered.

Write on.

Two Links Du Jour:

The No-Judgement Writing Technique that’s Become a Popular Obsession – American Writers and Artists Institute

Writing is the Best Personal Growth Tool – Ness Labs is a weekly newsletter with science-based insights on creativity, mindful productivity, better thinking and lifelong learning.

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