Putting yourself out there: on the other side of self-doubt
Around the time my Harlequin Love Inspired debut novel—A FATHER’S VOW—released in April 2024, I’d heard about dozens of writing contests available for authors. At the time, I sat back and cheered on my fellow writers as they proceeded to walk away as finalists and award winners, while I was paralyzed by self-doubt. Once I reminded myself that my book was the byproduct of The Great Love Inspired Author Search contest (2022), I mustered the courage to compile the required materials to enter Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews and Award Contest. Although the results aren’t available until Sept. 1, I’m delighted to share the five-star reader review that captures the themes found within the pages of A FATHER’S VOW. (Read the full review here.) Here’s my takeaway: if we’re not willing to put ourselves out there, we’ll always remain stuck on this side of self-doubt, rather than adding onto the building blocks of self-confidence.
When was the last time you persevered to the other side of self-doubt?
Congratulations, you sure had great parents to start with. They use to walk past my grandma’s house before or after dinner. Christine they were very proud of you when I would ask how you were doing. I am glad you applied yourself with the education I feel cheated with. While I have found success it was through our military. It lead me to a successful career and beautiful family. Where I thought in this world I would never achieve. I can speak for our Hiawatha gang. We are very proud of you.
Jeff, I can’t thank you enough for your kind words about my parents. Truly, it means so much that you took the time to comment on my post. And I am thrilled to hear that you found success through the military (thank you for your service!), and that you were blessed with a successful career, as well as a beautiful family. I will always think fondly of our Hiawatha gang, and still remain friends with several to this day. Thanks again for popping in 🙂