It has been a challenging few years. At the beginning of 2015, the voice of inspiration whispered to me, ‘it’s time to write a book’. From then on, that voice nagged and nagged until I surrendered. And so I wrote a first draft, and then a second draft and then a third draft and then some. But I am proud to say that my manuscript is finally complete! I am currently exploring all my publishing options and hope to have my book out to the world in the next six months.

Throughout the last few years, the writing process has challenged me like nothing before and I would love to share some of the lessons I have learned along the way. Perhaps these lessons will inspire you to follow your voice of inspiration as well.

1. It all starts with ABC. Attitude. Belief. Commitment. Once those three mindsets are in check you can do whatever you put your mind to. Suddenly time is no longer a problem and you begin to prioritise what matters most. This is the moment your passion is no longer a hobby or a ‘someday-one day’. With a positive attitude, self-belief and commitment you have a real goal within a definite timeframe.

2. When you are called to service you have to listen. You get the subtle tap. A waking voice that says ‘I really would like to… ’ Or ‘I feel really compelled to …’ Yes, in the beginning, it feels like a huge responsibility and a burden to carry. However, being called to serve is an honour we need to appreciate and humbly agree to.

3. Creativity and courage go hand-in-hand. The ability to express yourself creatively takes courage. Not everyone will appreciate, understand or even agree with your perspective. Share it anyway! It will matter to the right people.

4. The right people show up at the right time. As I needed help, guidance, assistance or support, the right person showed up at exactly the right time. The right book showed up. The right meme showed up. Or the right conversation was taking place at the table next to me. (Not that I was eavesdropping) 🙂 We do not need to have it all figured out at the beginning. We just need to have faith in universal timing.

5. The inner critic is your best friend. There were moments when I was crippled with fear. Past life regressions revealed lifetimes where I had been persecuted for speaking my truth. The memory of pain in my body was real and for days, sometimes weeks, I was stuck in writer’s block. Then I thought of reframing the voice of my Inner Critic and turning her bitchiness into kind discernment. And when I did, I realised a better way of expressing what I was trying to say. I realised she was my best friend, not stopping me, but bringing out the best of me.

6. Intention is everything. As fear crept in, I kept coming back to my intention and my highest purpose for writing my book: to bring change to our world and help people return to a space of authenticity. Every morning, before I wrote, I meditated on my intention. Be love and write from my heart. When I realized I am merely a conduit for change, I was able to shush my Ego and listen to the inspiration that seemed to be flowing through me.

7. Everything is happening to enable our growth. In fact, everything is writing material. Our darkest challenges can shed great light. When we write(or creatively express) from our pain and let go of the past, we find the lessons and blessings that reveal our unique messages.

8. Resilience is at the heart of success. NEVER GIVE UP. There were days when I was backed into a corner by my writing mentor and editor. Times when they challenged me to find words I never knew I had. Each time that voice of self-pity or self-doubt moaned, I pushed myself to find my greatness. I did not take anything personally and wrote and wrote and wrote until it was right.

9. Let the Universe lead. The universe speaks to us through our intuition. Tune in and listen- you are being guided to your destiny. Every time you follow your inner compass you will be led on the right path. The right path does not necessarily mean the easy path. It is the path of growth and the path of truth.

10. Get the F**k out of your own way. For years I found excuses not to write. ‘Do I know enough?’ Will I be judged?’ ‘Will I fail?’ Once I stopped worrying about myself and focused on the possible hearts I may touch, I got over myself. Who am I to judge?

11. Own your message. My first couple drafts were my safe drafts. Me people-pleasing. Me being scared to say the wrong thing. But then my Editor challenged me to clarify my message. At that moment something clicked into place. I committed fully to my unique message and embraced the courage to be vulnerable.

12. The universe will always support your purpose. Most Creatives struggle to financially support themselves over the duration of creation. This has been a massive learning for me. When we are committed to our soul’s purpose and courageously take risks, we will be supported along our way. Another lesson to have total trust, belief and faith.

And as I send my ‘baby’ off into the world, I trust that the right publishing path will show up at the right time.

So watch this space…