From Test Engineer to Author: A Journey Through Reading and Writing

What started as a necessity for a test engineer has transformed into a profound passion and hobby. The journey from a poorly documented job to becoming a technical writer and author is fascinating. Here, we explore how the world of reading and writing became deeply ingrained in my life.

The Spark: A Necessity Turned Interest

My interest in writing began when I started a new job where the documentation was less than ideal. The manuals available were correct but poorly written, and the style varied widely. It became clear that I would have to take matters into my own hands. I started organizing and rewriting the manuals to a consistent standard, ensuring they would be understandable to users from various countries, particularly those where English was not their native language. This experience led me to write how-to guides, explaining how to configure our systems.

Once I started writing, I found it difficult to stop. The process became a integral part of my daily routine, and I soon discovered that writing was not just a means to an end but a source of immense satisfaction and enjoyment.

Reading: From Childhood to Adulthood

My journey towards reading began in primary school, where I was introduced to a variety of beloved books. In first or second grade, our teachers would select books for us and emphasize the importance of libraries, teaching us not only the value of reading but also punctuality. This phase was crucial in shaping my love for reading. The next significant step in my reading journey came during sixth grade when the school introduced a new wing for older students, allowing us to choose our own books. It was here that I discovered the Harry Potter and Narnia series, a world of magic and adventure that captivated my imagination. Additionally, the school library had an abundant collection of science magazines, which I eagerly browsed, fulfilling my curiosity and expanding my knowledge.

Writing: Inheritance and Self-Discovery

Writing is an inheritance from my father, who is a wonderful writer himself. He has always valued and respected all my writing, from my early poetry in greeting cards to my poems on my blog and articles in school newspapers. My father taught me to respect my work and words, even if they were not acknowledged by others. He always encouraged me to grow at my own pace and stance, never helping me with my articles and poems. This approach helped me develop a sense of independence and self-reliance in my writing journey.

Advice for Aspiring Authors

To all the avid creators out there—artists, writers, musicians, the list goes on—my advice is to just create. Don't be discouraged by the fear of not being acknowledged. Create with passion, respect your work, and most importantly, grow from it. The journey is worth every step, and you will thank yourself for it. Stay true to your vision and keep pushing forward.