Chapter 1: A Last-Minute Decision

Initially, I hesitated about attending the Medium Day conference when I first received the invitation. However, I ultimately decided to register at the last moment. The discussions proved to be highly informative, with speakers who delivered much more inspiration than I anticipated.

I found it challenging to remain in one spot for too long, fearing that I might miss out on valuable insights. At social gatherings, I tend to be so captivated by engaging conversations that I often end up being one of the last to leave.

The benefit of connecting with numerous writers, authors, editors, and staff was immeasurable. As a writer, I often grapple with insecurities that linger beneath the surface while observing the apparent success of others.

Surprisingly, I didn’t feel any insecurity at the conference. Instead, I felt emboldened and ventured into networking sessions. Interacting with writers whose topics often surpass my understanding was a delightful experience as we exchanged our Medium journeys.

My inner critic tends to wake up just before I do, which makes it hard for me to trust my abilities. Engaging in forum discussions and reaching out to others has been a struggle, as I have been self-sufficient for such an extended period. However, I made a conscious effort to embrace the opportunities that arose during the conference. As I listened to others, I began to recognize positive aspects of myself as a writer that I had never acknowledged before.

Chapter 2: Insights and Reflections

It feels as if Medium Day 2023 catalyzed a change that was long overdue. Will this impact my writing journey? I believe it will. My mind now races in various directions, filled with a wealth of ideas, and my greatest challenge will likely be finding the focus to write.

I’m grateful to Medium for organizing this conference. To my surprise, much of what I learned was not just about improving my writing but also about being a better human being. Thank you, Nia:wen!

ElizaBeth Hill, a Kanienkeha:ka (Mohawk) from the Six Nations Reserve in Ontario, Canada, draws inspiration from her experiences and a deep passion for storytelling. As a songwriter, multi-disciplinary artist, and writer, she explores Indigenous narratives and landscapes worldwide, sharing songs, ideas, and stories to celebrate the beauty of life on earth. She is a deeply committed artist, dedicated to her craft.