put your work out there (even when it’s scary)

Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time not just writing poetry — but also preparing to share it.

In fact, I recently put together submissions for two poetry competitions. And let me tell you, choosing which poems to send out felt like its own creative process. I dug through notebooks, re-read old pieces, made last-minute edits, and did more second-guessing than I care to admit.

But at some point, I had to hit “send.”

So, I made a video about it — not just about the logistics, but the heart stuff too. Why it matters to try. Why it’s worth it to share what you make — even when it feels raw, unfinished, or not quite good enough.

In the video, I:

• Share how I approached the submissions

• Talk briefly as to why I picked certain poems

• Read two of my pieces — one from the final submission, and one straight from my messy notebook

• Reflect on creative vulnerability and growth

Watch the full video here 

Why I’m Writing About This

I’ve always seen this space as a home for my poetry — a portfolio of pieces that feel ready to be seen. But I’m realizing the process behind the poems is just as meaningful. So I’m starting to share more of that too:

• Submission journeys

• Creative doubts and breakthroughs

• What I’m working on (and what I’m stuck on)

• Moments that spark ideas

If you’ve ever hesitated to share your work — whether it’s poetry, painting, design, or anything in between — I hope this gives you a little nudge. There’s growth in showing up. There’s connection in being seen.

And sometimes, the act of sharing is just as creative as the making.

Thanks for being here.

With much love,
brii rodd

Watch the video
Submitting Poems + Reading Two Originals