Exposing Myself

In August 2022 I made the decision to write a memoir.

This was NEVER anything I dreamed of doing, EVER. As a matter of fact, I didn’t enjoy writing. I cringed whenever papers were assigned by a professor in college. So what made me decide to write a book? 

It was a decision I made after I discovered my life’s purpose. My purpose, job, calling, or passion (whatever you want to call it) is to open your eyes to all the possibilities that await you in this life. What a wonderful and powerful realization, but there was just one problem. How the heck would I find you to deliver my message? 

The best way is to write a book demonstrating my own transformation from victim to victor. In doing so, I share very personal stories about my life, beliefs and thoughts. Writing it was very cathartic, but I hadn’t given much thought to the notion that I would be exposing my personal secrets to the world. It left me feeling very vulnerable and exposed.

I spent several months writing for my eyes only.

Once the manuscript was complete, I passed it on to developmental editors who read the book and provided feedback on how I can improve upon what I had written. It was scary having two other people learn about my innermost thoughts but this was their job so I assumed they read similar stories on a regular basis, so it wasn’t too intimidating.

Now I find myself at the next step in the book publishing journey-beta readers. I have selected 20 people to read my book and provide feedback. These people are a mix of complete strangers, acquaintances and friends. I am completely petrified to do this. So many doubts and fears are racing through my mind.

“What if they think it’s awful? What if they judge me for some of the decisions I’ve made in my life? What if they laugh at me for even trying to write a book?”

I keep reminding myself of why I’m writing this in the first place. My goal is to inspire others to take control of the direction of their lives regardless of their circumstances. My hope is that by reading my story, they will see how you can transform your life when you stop using your challenges as an excuse not to move forward.

The best way for me to get the message across is by being vulnerable and sharing. Of course, there will always be people who won’t like the book or find it inspirational, and that’s okay. As long as reading my memoir can help one person then exposing myself will have been worth it.

I have learned the only way to move forward is to face your fears.

I haven’t come this far just to turn back because I’m scared. I need to do it even though I’m afraid. As I get ready to push the “share” button to allow 20 people access into my life, I’m excited. I can’t wait to hear their thoughts. If my memoir doesn’t deliver the intended message, I look forward to doing what needs to be done in order to help others begin to change their lives.

As Glinda the Good Witch says, “You always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself”. 

Until Next Time,

Debbie