What writing skill did you work the hardest to develop? What helped you to master that skill?

The skill I worked hardest to develop? It's like asking a marathon runner about their toughest mile. For me, it was mastering the art of concise yet impactful storytelling. It's about saying more with less, wielding words like a scalpel rather than a sledgehammer.

How did I master it? First, I devoured books - not just any books, but those by authors renowned for their brevity and punch. Hemingway, with his Iceberg Theory, was like a beacon. I dissected his sentences, understanding how each word carried its weight. It was like learning to pack for a month-long trip in a backpack.

Then, I wrote. A lot. Writing isn't just a skill; it's a craft. You have to chisel away the excess, leaving only what's essential. Every day, I wrote stories, essays, even simple emails. Each time, I aimed to strip away the unnecessary, leaving only the core. It was like sculpting; with each word removed, the true form emerged.

Feedback was my compass. I shared my work with brutally honest peers. Their critiques were sometimes tough to swallow, like a bitter pill. But it was medicine, nonetheless. It showed me my indulgences, my tendencies to wander off track.

And finally, I read my work aloud. Sounds simple, but it's revealing. When you hear your words, you can't hide from the superfluous. It's like listening to a recording of your voice; you hear the quirks, the umms, the unnecessary fluff.

Mastering this skill was like taming a wild horse. It's a constant challenge, but with each stride, you gain more control, more grace, more strength. It's an ongoing journey, but every step, every word, brings you closer to the essence of your voice.