I Used to Fear Repeating Myself

This is an essay about overcoming the fear of repetition in writing and why it's actually beneficial to repeat key ideas. If you've ever hesitated to share an insight because you thought you might have mentioned it before, this piece is for you. If not, feel free to skip it.

I used to fear repeating myself. When I first started writing, the thought of saying the same thing twice filled me with dread. What if I used the same quote I shared three weeks ago? What if I linked to an article I'd referenced before? These concerns paralyzed me, preventing me from putting words on the page.

But here's the truth: repetition is not just okay; it's essential.

First, let's consider memory. Humans are forgetful creatures. We don't retain every piece of information we encounter. That insightful quote you shared last month? Most of your readers have likely forgotten it. By repeating it, you're not being redundant; you're reinforcing an important idea.

Second, repetition is a powerful teaching tool. Think about any skill you've mastered. Did you learn it by being exposed to the concept once? Probably not. You likely practiced it repeatedly, encountering the same principles over and over until they became second nature. Your writing can serve the same purpose for your readers.

Third, your audience is constantly changing. New readers join while others leave. What seems repetitive to you might be fresh and enlightening to someone encountering your work for the first time.

Moreover, context matters. The same idea presented in a different context can take on new meaning and relevance. That quote you used before might perfectly illustrate a new point you're making now.

Remember, even the greatest thinkers and writers in history didn't shy away from repetition. They hammered home their core ideas repeatedly, knowing that persistence is key to making an impact.

So, if you find yourself hesitating to write because you're worried about repeating yourself, push past that fear. Your readers will benefit from the reinforcement, and you'll free yourself to focus on what really matters: sharing your insights and ideas with the world.

Abandoning here,

Bradley