Writing is Hard

One of the primary functions of my job is to identify requirements and communicate them in an understandable fashion to others. I refine broad requirements into a series of steps that are then turned into code. My goal is to break it down so simply that the code is all but laid out in the requirements document.

This is so hard. I start with broad concepts turn those in English paragraphs and then short lists. This is why English class is so important for STEM students. Because communication is essential. Word choice is essential. And all of those creative writing, technical writing, and literature classes we decry as a waste of time are really just practice runs for communicating effectively.

I left all of my liberal arts classes for the end of my degree. I thought it was a waste of time. My last class before graduation was ENGL112. But I realized, as I went through these liberal arts exercises, that writing at work was so much easier as I went through these classes. As I am spending these days writing all day, I am grateful for the liberal arts classes.

And hopefully writing a silly little blog helps me work on my writing as well. The mental exercise is essential to being effective at my job.

I like to think reading helps as well. Because reading is my favourite activity for relaxing. And I need every excuse I can get to pick up a paperback, a cup of tea, and ignore every task that is calling for my attention.

Viva la arts libéraux

My reading chair. Currently doubles as Garrett's bed. I hope I will get it back when he is too big to sleep there. It might be awhile, as I still like to fall asleep here.