Football is Life

When I first sat down to write my personal essay, I thought the words would flow easily. After all, I was writing about myself — my experiences, my goals, my story. But as soon as I opened the blank document, I froze.

The Block

I knew how important the essay was for college applications. It wasn’t just another homework assignment; it was supposed to capture who I am in a way that numbers and grades never could. That pressure weighed on me. Every sentence I started sounded either too cliché or not good enough. I found myself second-guessing everything: Is this story meaningful enough? Will an admissions officer care? Am I even explaining myself clearly?

The more I overthought, the less I wrote. Hours passed with only a few lines on the page. My biggest obstacle wasn’t a lack of ideas — it was the fear of not being perfect.

Overcoming the Block

What finally helped me was shifting my perspective:

• I stopped trying to impress. Instead, I asked myself, What would I say if I was telling my story to a close friend?That mindset made my writing more natural.
• I wrote without editing. At first, I just dumped thoughts onto the page. Later, I could refine them, but in the moment, I gave myself permission to write freely.
• I looked back at small moments. Instead of forcing a “big” story, I reflected on everyday experiences — things like helping my siblings, learning through setbacks, or finding joy in small victories. Those details felt authentic.
• I leaned on feedback. Sharing drafts with teachers and friends helped me see what parts resonated with others and gave me confidence to keep going.

What I Learned

Breaking through my mental block taught me that the personal essay isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being honest. Admissions officers don’t expect a polished novel; they want to hear my voice, see my growth, and understand what matters to me.

Once I let go of the pressure and just wrote from the heart, the words finally came. And in the process, I discovered not just how to tell my story, but also how to trust it.