As I’ve just crossed two years since my first title was published, I’ve been reflecting on my journey as an author and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Before I began working on my first book, The Shadow Work Workbook, the idea of becoming a published author was a long-forgotten pipe dream. Ever since I became aware of the written word, I always found solace in writing and reading. But as I came up through the educational system writing became a sporadic vacation I’d only let myself visit from time to time. I would take writing courses here and there, yet most of my writing was relegated to term papers and marketing my programming efforts as Resident Assistant (yes I have stories).
Being able to write about ideas I find most meaningful has given me the ability to lean into the part of me that always sought to write. As I’ve been on this journey in publishing for a couple of years now I’ve learned a few lessons.
It do take nerve
Each year I try to have a word that guides me through the promise of New Year’s. In 2022 my word was audacity. As I was in the process of completing my first book, I recognized that becoming an author meant believing in myself in a new, highly visible way. This level of vulnerability scared me then, and still does to some extent now. Everyday I’m reminded it takes a lot of nerve to show up, write, and let the world in.
Publishing is really hard work
It’s estimated that a staggering 81% of people believe they have a book inside them, yet only about 1% of people ever go on to ever write said book, let alone publish it. The numbers are bleak.
There are plenty of reasons for this gap; having the education and capacity to actually write a book are chief among them. As I approach the publication of my third title being out in the world soon, I’m reminded that writing is hard work, as is the process of publishing and bringing a book to market. It all requires lots of effort. It’s incredibly stressful, but ultimately worth it.
Writing is rewarding
When I took the risk of writing my first book, I wasn’t sure how it would be received. My goal was to create something that could be helpful to people in learning to truly be with themselves compassionately. But, as we all know, good intentions don’t always lead to great outcomes.
The response to my writing so far has truly exceeded my expectations. To know that something I’ve written has touched someone’s heart is an incredible and fulfilling feeling. To also have the encouragement and respect of other writers is also an incredibly powerful affirmation. While this sort of recognition isn’t everything, it certainly means something very special for me.
It’s self-affirming
I appreciate discipline, integrity, and hard work so I feel a great sense of accomplishment when I complete something I’ve worked hard on. It’s a truly wonderful feeling. It’s probably one of the feelings I appreciate most. Making my way through the world of publishing has helped me put the idea of self-praise and congratulation, into clear and routine practice.
Writing is a revolutionary act. Sharing your mind and heart is another, and both are worth being proud of.
Your cheerleaders will surprise you
I’ve come across this idea before and I’ve found it one of the most surprising, and at at times disappointing, realities of writing and publishing. Most people who read, consume, and laud your work probably won’t be the people closest in your life. For me, it’s been a hard pill to swallow. And it still takes work to accept this reality.
On the other hand, this dynamic is also incredibly affirming. If my writing convinces a stranger that I have something worthy of reading and internalizing, is that not the ultimate sign of success? To have someone, with no relation to you, find value in what you do is a different form of acknowledgement. Ideally, every writer would have both in abundant measure, but that’s not always the reality.
Writing, and publishing, is a complex experience routinely requiring mental adjustment to adjust to the literary and social landscape.
Above all, it’s important for me to remember that that with every sale, with every review, or word of mouth recommendation, my work finds its way into the hands and hearts of those who need it. And for that, I couldn’t be more excited or grateful.
I’m curious to see what other lessons lie ahead.
This is all so spot on! 🫶🏽