5 Things I’ve Learnt Since Writing a Book
Writing a book is often imagined as a single, monumental act—put pen to paper, finish the last page, and voilà, your story is out in the world. But having gone through the journey of writing In Grace and Stillness, I’ve discovered that the process is far richer, more humbling, and more enlightening than I ever expected. Here are five lessons that have stayed with me since writing my first book.
1. The Journey is Longer Than the Destination
When you dream of writing a book, it’s easy to focus solely on the end result—the printed pages, the book launch, or the digital downloads. But the truth is, the last page is just the beginning.
The journey doesn’t end with the manuscript. There are edits, formatting, design choices, marketing strategies, and connecting with readers. I’ve realised that growth happens not only in writing the book but in learning how to share it, promote it, and receive feedback. Every email, comment, or message from a reader has reminded me that the work extends far beyond my own expectations.
2. Vulnerability is Powerful
Writing a book is like holding up a mirror for others to look into. Every personal story, reflection, or lesson shared carries a piece of your heart. It’s intimidating to put yourself out there, to wonder if anyone will relate or even care.
But here’s what I’ve learnt: vulnerability connects. When I allowed myself to be open—sharing struggles, doubts, and victories—I found that readers resonated deeply. They wrote back, shared their own experiences, and thanked me for words that mirrored their own hearts. There’s something transformative in letting people see the real you, imperfect and evolving.
3. Perfection is Overrated
I’ll admit it: I wanted every sentence, paragraph, and page to be perfect. I wanted to capture my thoughts flawlessly. But over time, I realised that chasing perfection can be paralyzing.
Readers don’t connect with perfect—they connect with authentic. They connect with honesty, with emotion, with a story that feels real. My book doesn’t need to be flawless; it needs to be genuine. And that lesson has carried into every part of my creative life since.
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4. Community Matters
Writing might feel like a solitary act, but it’s truly a community effort. From editors and proofreaders to early readers, mentors, friends, and family, the people who believe in your story and offer guidance are invaluable.
I learnt that asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Each person who contributed in some way shaped the final book. Writing a book is not about going it alone; it’s about surrounding yourself with people who see your vision, challenge it, and support it.
5. Impact is Unpredictable
One of the most humbling lessons I’ve learnt is that the impact of your words is often beyond your imagination. A single paragraph or a short reflection can touch someone in ways you never anticipated. Readers have shared stories of healing, clarity, and encouragement inspired by passages I almost overlooked.
This has reminded me that creating something meaningful isn’t about metrics or accolades it’s about being willing to share your heart and trust that it will reach the right people at the right time.
Bonus Reflection: Patience, Faith, and Grace
Writing a book also teaches patience. Not every step happens on your timeline. Not every reader engages immediately. Not every opportunity unfolds as planned. But faith in the process, trust in your purpose, and grace toward yourself makes the journey richer.
In writing In Grace and Stillness, I’ve learnt to slow down, breathe, and embrace each stepeven the messy, uncertain ones. The book is not only a collection of reflections and prompts it’s a testament to the lessons of patience, perseverance, and divine timing in action.
Final Thought
If you’re dreaming of writing a book or creating something meaningful, remember this: the journey teaches you as much as the destination. Be vulnerable. Seek support. Trust the process. And never underestimate the power of your words to touch hearts, even in ways you can’t see.
Writing a book has changed me in ways I couldn’t have imagined and I hope these lessons encourage anyone on their own creative journey.
