I have a physical handwriting problem that has plagued me through my entire life. In my younger years I was never forced to write properly and ended writing right handed while holding my pen like a leftie - kind of bent inwards. Now at 39, when I feel very calm, am alone, and can take my time, my handwriting can be very neat. I must clarify that I print, I don't write.

What really bothers me now is that when someone observes my writing, I feel pressured or rushed - my writing falls to pieces and I try to avoid the process altogether. Co-workers who have observed me handwriting say that I look like I am in pain when I write. Many find this basic inability very laughable. I do try and hold the pen in the proper manner which helps a bit, but the whole process seems hypersensitive to my emotional state. When calm itacceptable, when anxious or nervous it is terrible. Is this common? Mark