Since returning to roller skating as an adult three years ago, I’ve become a good skater. If you know anything about roller skating – not rollerblading – the thought of rolling on those eight wheels is scary. Skating is another discipline all in itself. To actually roller skate is a combination of skill and technique. I can proudly say that I’m working on mastering both. Gaining my level of ability did not come easy. It took huge levels of courage, commitment and confidence. These are the same qualities that contribute to my success as a blogger.
Courage
Roller skating as an adult is not for the faint of heart, especially after being off wheels for at least 10 years. The first day I returned to the skating rink, I looked out at the intimidating floor with two thoughts: 1) How do I begin? and 2) What if I fall? The only way to find out was to take off – literally. Not taking that first step at all would have been a bigger failure than taking the first step and hitting the floor.
Similar thoughts occurred to me when I decided to blog two years ago. It was just me and a blank screen with the following thoughts: 1) What am I supposed to write? and 2) How do I begin? Even today I sometimes sit and stare at the screen willing it to write the next post for me. It doesn’t happen. To begin, I just type a few random thoughts. From those thoughts I pick a topic and flow. It’s easier to start with a few simple thoughts than to try to write a thesis with no direction. But to not write at all is to fail.
Since failure is not an option for me, I always muster the courage to begin. My ventures in roller skating began with a few small steps while my blogging life began with a few simple thoughts. My commitment to both ventures makes moving forward much easier because I am determined to master the skills and techniques of skating while becoming one of the most well-known and wealthiest bloggers in the world.
Commitment
My determination to become an excellent skater gets me to the rink at least once a week, although twice a week is ideal. When I do finally get there, I practice current techniques and learn new moves. My commitment to skating not only makes me more comfortable on wheels and eager to want to learn more, it also makes me a better skater.
The same is true with blogging. My commitment to blogging keeps me posting at least once a week. My creativity also expands to new dimensions. I write in different styles; vary the length of blog posts; and attempt different topics. In addition, my writing and editing skills have improved greatly as a result of my consistency.
Consistency and practice are proof of my commitment to roller skating and blogging. Not only does my skill level increase, my confidence level also gets a boost.
Confidence
Courage and commitment give me the confidence to do things I never thought I could or would do. I find myself almost speed skating around the rink and looking forward to learning new tricks on wheels. That sounds insane – and it is – but it’s such a thrill to be able to skate around the entire rink in less than a minute and do some of the tricks I only admired a few years ago. And, skaters who have been skating for years are asking me to show them moves. My skate style is all my own, and no one can do what I do the way I do it. I have learned a lot these past few years, but I’m not done yet. There is still a lot more to learn, and I’m going to get it.
My blogging confidence allows me to produce more posts in a shorter period of time. I’m also submitting guest posts to other blog sites. My authentic voice and originality creates a personal connection between my readers and me, which keeps them coming back. I am also on a mission to write topics that will incite controversy, invite criticism and hopefully ignite discussions for better understanding.
As I was wrapping up this story, I received an e-mail that read, “Action can kill any fear and replace it with confidence.” This pretty much summed up everything for me. Courage, commitment, and confidence are the three C’s bloggers can learn from roller skaters. Just know that with any venture you undertake, it takes courage to get going, commitment to keep going and confidence to keep growing.
Source: Blondish.net – 2011
Hi Marcie,
I hope you’re still skating. If so, you definitely need to check out the national skate parties. There are many throughout the year in various states across the country. Skategroove.com is a good resource. I hope to see you at one soon! Keep rollin’ Sis! Also, please let me know about using your logo (black woman on skates). I’d like to put it on a greeting card and send to a friend of mine (a fellow skater). Its a great image that depicts our skate family of sisters well. Best, Vanessa aka Skateness
Hi Vanessa,
I still gets my roll on! Also, I do have a site where people can share their roller skating stories and memories I’m going to check out Skategroove.com. I sent you an e-mail. Please check.
I ohhh so love your thick n sexy roller babe logo. I am thick myself and love roller skating. Funny how you talk about courage because that’s what I’m experiencing right now. I will be 45 next month and keep saying I can’t afford to break anything it keeps me from trying. I do encourage my 10 year old because he is an awesome skater.
Hi Cassandra. I would encourage you to take lessons. That’s what I did when I returned to skating. Once people see your drive to learn, they will definitely help. But go with your son because he’d love to have you there.