Sharing my Writing Journey - A First Novel in the Making

nativilleneuve
Jun 15
2 min read

Updated: Jun 22

At 60, I embarked on an incredible journey to write my first novel, fully embracing the process of sharing my writing journey. As a French Canadian, English is my second language, and I was never an avid reader. Yet, I’ve always possessed a vivid imagination—just ask my kids about the adventurous bedtime stories I created when they were little! This journey began about a year ago, fueled by a desire to push my artistic boundaries and explore the depths of my creativity.

Writing a novel is no small feat, but sharing my writing journey has opened up new avenues for self-discovery and growth. Here are the insights that have fueled my passion and transformed my perspective:

Self-Exploration: This writing process has become a journey into my own thoughts and feelings. As I share my writing journey, I’ve discovered what is truly important to me—my values, dreams, and experiences that inspire my creativity. Each word I write helps me understand myself better and connect with my inner voice.
Building Confidence: Taking on the challenge of writing a book has been significant. Sharing my writing journey has offered me the opportunity to prove to myself that I can accomplish something once deemed unattainable. Each chapter I complete boosts my confidence, reminding me that determination can lead to remarkable achievements.
Pacing Myself: In an era dominated by instant gratification, I’ve learned the value of committing to a slow and intentional creative process. Writing requires patience and perseverance, allowing me to savor each moment of creativity. Sharing my writing journey has enriched this experience, making it all the more rewarding.
Developing Skills: This journey has sharpened my writing abilities and strengthened my critical thinking and communication skills. As I craft my narrative, I find myself analyzing my choices and exploring different ways to express complex ideas. Sharing my writing journey is invaluable, as it extends beyond writing and impacts other areas of my life.

Even if my book goes unread, the transformative power of completing it will be immeasurable. That said, I intend to do everything I can to share my story with the world—after all, dedication doesn’t have to be serious! I’m fully committed to this endeavor, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.

My story revolves around a young protagonist grappling with immense power and responsibility, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and rebellion against an oppressive regime. This narrative aligns with the YA market, yet its complexity also appeals to adult epic fantasy readers.

As I continue this journey, I invite you to join me. Whether you're an aspiring writer, a seasoned author, or simply someone who enjoys stories, I hope my experiences in sharing my writing journey inspire you to embrace your own creative endeavors. Remember, it’s never too late to pursue your passions and share your unique voice with the world.