It sounds ridiculous, but I am preparing for my Personal Statement for next year's 2019 entry. I know I am early, but this is mainly preliminary work. Moreover, with what I have produced so far, I am consistently bumping into the same criticisms: too professional, too rigid, not sounding genuine or sincere, "writing from the 19th century", arrogance, and so forth.
Naturally I want to continue practising until I am comfortable with my ability, and need some advice to achieve that. I put the following questions out there:
1) Have you ever found yourself struggling with the formality and style of your writing? Especially towards the "too formal" end of the spectrum?
2) How have you consistently combatted the habit or amended your style of writing? Maybe without aid? I personally find it hard identifying the flaws in my writing, and can only note the excessive nature of my tone when someone points it out.
Many thanks in advance. Tips that diverge from the questions but complement my issue are welcomed.