Chapter 1: The Gift of Writing

Writing has always felt like a natural extension of myself. While many of my early memories have faded, I recall a time when words flowed effortlessly through me. It was as if this talent was a gift I never consciously claimed; it simply existed, guiding my thoughts and emotions, waiting to be expressed through my hands.

In high school, when asked about my future aspirations, I would enthusiastically declare, “I want to be a writer!” My heart swelled with pride at the thought of becoming an author. I imagined a bright future: earning degrees, moving to New York City, and having publishers vying for my attention with lucrative book deals. Life, however, had other plans.

At fourteen, my mother’s struggle with addiction forced me into a precarious situation, leading to homelessness and a challenging transition to living with my father in a new city. The shock of feeling abandoned by the one person who nurtured my writing crushed my spirit, shattering my dreams.

“College? Not for me,” I thought. “Writing won’t pay the bills. I need a real job!” My aspirations buried deep, I responded to the question, “What do you do for fun?” with a lie, “I write!” In reality, I hadn’t written a word in years.

Despite the internal struggle, I was trapped in a corporate job, believing that hard work would eventually lead to the American dream by retirement age. Yet, with each passing year, a longing to write gnawed at me. It wasn’t until I was 27 that I summoned the courage to start a blog. I was bold, unapologetic, but still hesitant to share it with anyone, consumed by self-doubt.

“What if everyone thinks I’m terrible? What if I’m not good enough?” My anxiety overwhelmed me, prompting me to walk away from my desires once more. The fear of failure felt insurmountable.

The truth is, our natural talents are not about controlling them but about allowing them to flow through us. At 30, I decided to embrace this gift once again. I committed to writing daily, and within three months, I completed my first manuscript, “What It Means to Be Free!” My book was finally published amidst the pandemic, filling me with joy.

However, I still hesitated to promote it. The fear of judgment held me back, and my book faded into obscurity. I was a writer but failed to advocate for my own work.

Chapter 2: Healing Through Words

At 33, I experienced a profound heartbreak, reminiscent of my past traumas. The emotions I felt echoed the abandonment I had faced as a child. Writing was my solace, yet I struggled to find the words. Seeking help, I delved into therapy and shadow work, confronting my pain.

By the end of 2022, as I processed my feelings, I felt a wave of clarity and peace. I began to write again, producing “F*ck Shame, Embrace Love!: A 4-Step Guide to Healing from Heartbreak and Becoming Whole Again!” in just two weeks. I knew this book could help others, but I was terrified of repeating my past mistakes of hiding away.

During a therapy session, I shared my fears about publishing. “What if no one cares about what I have to say?” I confessed. My therapist encouraged me to confront my thoughts and memories, leading me to realize that I had no real proof of failure—only fears rooted in past disappointments.

In 2023, I resolved to change. I wanted to honor my gift, the joy it brought me, and the dreams I had previously abandoned. In February, I published my book and actively marketed it for the first time. The fear was palpable, yet I pushed through.

I posted on social media, shared my journey on TikTok, and engaged with author communities. A week later, I discovered my book had become a #1 new release on Amazon. Overwhelmed with emotion, I shared the news with my therapist, who celebrated my success.

“I AM A WRITER!” I shouted, finally believing it myself.

For anyone reading this who harbors a dream or a talent, I encourage you to pursue it relentlessly. Even amidst fear and past trauma, show up for yourself. Your desires are meant to be lived, not just imagined. Ask yourself, “What do I truly want?” and declare it boldly.

What action can you take today to move closer to your dreams? Commit to it, and repeat this process until it becomes part of your reality.

The first video, "What Do You Call Yourself?" explores the importance of self-identity and claiming your passions.

In the second video, "What Do You Call Yourself?", viewers are encouraged to embrace their true selves and pursue their dreams unapologetically.