When I started out on this amazing journey as a children’s author, I was really excited but had no idea what lay ahead. I knew that it would be hard work but also that it was what I was destined to do.
It’s just taken me a while to finally realise it – and for everything to align to support that decision.
Aside from my family, nothing means more to me than being mum to my gorgeous little boy. So it’s an absolute honour when I receive emails from other mums who tell me how I’ve inspired them and that they too want to take the plunge and follow their dreams.
It’s not always an easy decision to make, but following your heart and your passion is always the right thing to do. It’s what will make you happy and in turn, make those around you happy too.
Of course with all decisions like this, there is usually a balancing game involving time / money somewhere along the line.
But allowing any fear or self-doubt to creep in, is just defeatist. It’s like the negative committee turning up to rain on your parade. And I for one don’t plan to entertain anything they have to say.
In this pursuit to follow my dream, I have already encountered so many amazing people and supporters. I also get the odd blank look followed by, “But what are you going to do next?”
And when I respond with, “I’m going off to pursue my dreams,” I’m either met with a mix of overwhelming enthusiasm or plain looks of confusion. The confusion comes as they enjoy working nine to five for someone else, as I have done for many years. And you may well be in the same position and are happy with this as your choice.
But it is a choice – and decisions that we make change where we head in life. I don’t want to look back and regret what I haven’t done – and so for now, this is my time and I literally can’t wait.
I received a beautiful message in a birthday card the other day from a childhood friend. She said, “I really believe that 2017 is going to be your year.”
It is support like this and hearing from others, especially mums, that means the world to me. Being a mum isn’t always easy. We become professional jugglers literally overnight, trying to keep everyone, including ourselves happy. But all too often our wants and needs, come at the bottom of the pile – secondary to those of your loved ones. It comes with the territory. Being mum = being selfless.
That said for what it’s worth I believe that I owe it to myself, to J and to those who have been in touch to keep going, even when times get hard. Even when any doubts appear on the horizon (though I’m determined to nip them in the bud) and even when I’m not sure how this is going to pan out. It might sound strange – but I just know that it will and I can’t help but smile at the possibilities that lay ahead.
Thank you to everyone who has been in touch to let me know about the path you’re beginning or are about to begin, or who has messaged me just to say hello. It makes this dream – that bit more special.
Ps Book number two is on its way later this year. The illustrations are complete and the text is with the publisher. I can’t wait to share all of my plans with you x
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