Today,
I just want to say a big thank you to all my author friends and readers who
have supported me and my work throughout the last ten years. Time goes by,
successes and failures happen––I would’ve given up on my dreams a long time ago
if it weren’t for the tens of people I have met online and in person.
Over
the last decade, I’ve written countless short stories (in the formative
years!), fourteen books and two novellas, all of which are either published or
contracted –all my wonderful author friends both sides of the Atlantic have played
a massive part in my success!
Knowing
there are people out there to support you in your dreams means everything for a
feeling of inner strength and belief. It’s human nature to doubt what you are
thinking or doing, and worrying people will laugh or put you down. When you
meet people who cheer you on, love and admire your work, and most of all, share
your struggles, it gives an incredible sense of excitement and optimism.
Writers
are introverts and happy in their own company, which all too often provides far
too much surrounding silence allowing that horrible voice in your head to shout
loud and clear, “give up!” “You’re not good enough!” “This story is your worst
yet!”
My
advice to aspiring writers? Fill your head with your stories, not your
‘internal editor’. Keep writing. Never EVER give up and believe in your dreams,
ALWAYS! Ten years ago, I was first published and then 2011 brought me an agent,
2012 contracts with Harlequin Superromance and Kensington. Yes,
I
am living a dream I never thought would happen. Am I still shy? Yes. Am I still
a teeny bit scared ongoing success could mean having to stand up in public one
day, YES!!! Terrified, would probably be a better description of how I feel
about public speaking!
I
am happy. I’m loving my work, but more than anything, love my writer friends and
readers so much. Mix up your social circle, reach out through social mediums
such as Twitter and Facebook and surround yourself with optimistic, supportive
and fun people. You will be amazed how quickly you realize your fears are
echoed and conquered every day.
Stand
tall and know you are no better or worse than others out there. Let yourself
grow and shine until you feel as though your star is in reach – because it is!
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