What Have I Learned About My Writing

I have learned mostly that it is okay to include myself in my writing rather than keeping my distance by using third person or a passive voice. I think I have always been "in my writing," but more in an "undercover" way. I was always taught to follow strict writing guidelines, but now I am trying to break free from these chains and simply write from my heart. I find it is easier to write when I am passionate about a particular subject.
Now let me clarify "easier." If I have passion for what I am writing, it is "easier" not to procrastinate. I want to write. It seems the words want to be released onto paper. However, it is not "easy" when it comes to revision and reducing the "lard factor." I have learned that a paper is never perfect and revisions are numerous. I guess the most serious revelation that I have had is that it is "okay" to walk away from a paper and return to it days, weeks, or months later.
This class has involved a lot of peer editing/reading. I have always let someone read my papers before submitting them. Most of the time my father reads them. He makes comments and corrects mechanical errors for me. This has proven to be most helpful. In addition to this, I read my papers outloud to my husband. Boy, he enjoys this! Of course, it probably helps him fall asleep, but it helps me to find errors in my paper. I will continue this practice. My family will probably be most grateful when I graduate from this program.
I have also learned that writing is a process and that every individual has his/her own process. I have somewhat identified mine as being a planner. I have spoken about my process in class. It seems outdated with pen/paper, but it works for me. This class has brought my attention to how and why I write. I appreciate that .