Today we have a guest post from Molly Ford, reflecting on what she has learned from her blog, Smart, Pretty & Awkward, and how grateful she is for each of 
those lessons – a timely conversation during this time of the year.
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I’ve spent the past five years, from age 22 to age 27, writing on my site, Smart, Pretty & Awkward. Smart, Pretty & Awkward gives three pieces of advice each post: How to be Smarter, How to be Prettier, and How to be (less) Awkward.
Over the past five years, through the 20-something rites of passage of graduations, moves, first dates, and job switches, one very consistent thing in my life has been Smart, Pretty & Awkward.
Having my own special project has impacted the last five years in more ways than I can count, 100% of them positive. A place to share my writing, to connect with other sweet and talented girls, and some really interesting writing, speaking and consulting opportunities are a few of the benefits I’ve experienced running a website.
But the most unexpected present of having a special project all my own has been two-fold: the gift of something to think about and the gift of something to talk about.
In quiet moments, I enjoy mulling over a new tip, or planning about how I will respond to a reader email, or wondering what my next quote on Twitter should be. I always love thinking about the site and rarely feel bored – I can always change boredom while waiting in line or sitting in traffic into strategic thinking about the site.
The other unexpected benefit of Smart, Pretty & Awkward is the excitement I get from talking about it. Even though I get uncomfortable talking about myself (in small talk situations, I prefer asking questions one thousand times more than answering questions); I can talk about Smart, Pretty & Awkward with ease. The joy of having a project I love to talk about has saved me many times on dates, interviews, and at parties.
Smart, Pretty & Awkward is so incredibly special to me and I’m aware everyday how lucky I am to have something I enjoy so much.
Your own special project might also be writing-based. But it might also be jewelry making, or attempting to read a book a day, or stand-up comedy, or anything that brings you great joy.
That would be my wish for all 20-somethings, 40-somethings, and everyone else: a special project of your own that you love to think about by yourself and love to talk about with others.
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Since Smart, Pretty & Awkward turns five years old this December, I’ll be having an anniversary party on December 2 at Bubble Lounge in Tribeca. If you are in the New York City area, I’d love to see you there! To RSVP, click here.
Photo credit: Caroline Winn