Blogger Spotlight: Daniel Paice

Blogger Interview with Daniel Paice

When did you first start writing?

I first started writing for pleasure when I was about 13 or 14. I remember sitting in my bedroom, and it suddenly hit me out of the blue, that something could actually come out of my love for writing.

When did you know you wanted to be a blogger?

It was during 2018. Blogging intrigued me as a way of expressing myself and putting myself out there a bit. One of my first thoughts was that it would be something good to say ‘Yes me, I did that.’ I’m also quite a goal-oriented person; but saying that, to a certain extent I do like to see what different opportunities are opened up to me as I go along. I knew what I wanted to do in life was writing-related, so it seemed a good place to start.

Was there any blog in particular that inspired you? Or a teacher/mentor?

It was something that had crossed my mind several years before I actually started my blog. Then about two years ago, I met two very good friends that had experience in different types of blogging. It interested me as a creative outlet. But then I realized I didn’t have the courage to get things started, and I had no idea what I wanted to write about, so it sat at the back of my mind for a while.

When did you start your blog?

I started my blog at the beginning of October this year. I didn’t have any goals in mind, just that I should see how things go, and treat it as a good chance to learn something new. Check it out here!

What do you write about on your blog?

My blog is all about mental health. Hopefully providing a bit of support for those struggling with their mental health. But also celebrate those that are on their way to feeling better. I also think it’s important to reduce stigma around mental health because in a way I think there is this vicious circle of people feeling bad in the first place, but also feeling bad as they think they’ll get shunned for feeling a certain way. I also like to maintain a friendly and approachable atmosphere within my writing to remind people it’s okay to talk about mental health — within that there’s the mental process of trying to break down all the barriers someone might have built to protect themselves.

How do you come up with blog post ideas?

My ideas partly come from my own experiences — what would I find useful to read; what insight would I like to gain? And then the ideas sort of branch out from that. I also like to expand my horizons and educate myself in the process. For example, I did a piece on Seasonal Affective Disorder. It allowed me to compare both sides of the concept (I tend to suffer from Summertime Seasonal Affective Disorder), which then led me to find out that more people are statistically affected by Summertime SAD.

What inspires you to write the most?

I think it’s the catharsis I get from discussing sometimes sensitive subjects, as well as the idea that somewhere down the line I am helping someone, even if it’s just for a few minutes. I like the idea of turning my own mental health struggles into something much more positive. You never know what doors experiences will open.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

Being able to express myself, and feeling like my voice is contributing to bettering society in whatever minute way. Complete freedom in writing is something I relish.

Do you write anything other than blog posts — poems, short stories, etc.?

When I first started writing — intentionally — I wrote poetry as a succinct way of expressing myself. I then attempted to write short stories, until I realized how meticulous and precise they have to be to get the message across in such a small amount of words. At the time, that felt like too much, so I went back to poetry as a way of improving and building on my skill.

Do you have any advice for aspiring bloggers?

If you think you should do it, that’s probably a sign you should. Even if you’re not sure what you want to write about, you could start with a stream of consciousness writing (in a private space). That might help you figure out your goals, and where your creativity lies. Definitely start small and gradually build yourself up.

Are you on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook?

I am indeed, yes. I’m on Twitter and Instagram under the same username of @DanJWrites — follow me there for more fun!

Is there anything else you want to share about your writing or that you want your readers to know?

I have recently started branching out into freelance content writing — mental health, and digital marketing — so I’d just like to say that if you know of anyone that might find my services useful, please direct them to me. That’d be really appreciated. I want to help people succeed. It would be best if you contacted me through Instagram, as that is where I am more freelance — orientated.

End of Blogger Interview with Daniel Paice

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