Building a support system

There are some things we just can’t do alone. Sometimes we need to ask for help.

On my journey into publication I have had to recognise and accept my limitations. I know I can write. I have written in the past. As a lecturer, I wrote: schemes of work; lesson plans; course manuals; handouts. As a psychotherapist I write therapeutic stories for children. I had to learn how to do it and have a template to follow. I’m sure the same can be said about writing books. I know that there is a system to follow and I can either do it the hard way by trial and error and much wasted time or I can surround myself with experts.

I have chosen the latter and, if you are joining me on my quest, I encourage you to do the same.

I would like to introduce you to my mentors on this adventure.

First of all, Simon Whaley, my tutor on The Writer’s Bureau course. When I first enrolled on the course I had that experience of being at the edge of my map, about to enter new territory. I was way out of my comfort zone and Simon, very skilfully, held my hand through this initial stage. He has always been supportive of my writing. He gives me positive feedback and encouragement, always believing that it is possible for me to achieve my dreams. How wonderful is that? Just imagine for a moment having a professional, best selling writer talk to you about your book ideas as if they are about to manifest. This, in itself, instils me with confidence.

Secondly, I would like you to meet Julia McCutchen –publishing consultant and creativity coach. The first thing I noticed about Julia is her passion, not only for her own work but for the dreams of her clients. She wants us all to become published authors and puts every ounce of herself into helping and supporting us in this work.

She has helped me to focus my ideas and create from my own unique perspective. The most important thing that Julia has taught me is to work on finding my own writer’s voice.

I would also like to mention my friend Renita Boyle, an author and poet. Renita has taught me, by example, that it is possible to become a published author. The things she writes about are things that she feels passionately about in her life and it shows through her writing. Just being around her has helped me to believe in myself more. What’s interesting is that I only met Renita when I came to live in the middle of nowhere!

So, what have I learned? That sometimes we need help and it’s OK to ask for it. That surrounding ourselves with experts can move us forward and keep us focused. That anything is possible – if we believe in ourselves.