I got a parcel through the post the other day. It was the first proofs of my book.
(It’s a compilation of the best posts of the first 18 months of the Confident Writing blog.)
It was, to put it mildly, a red letter moment, to see the writing task so close to fruition.
It also gave me the prompt to write this post, which has been bubbling away for a while, on how you helped me to write the book.
1. Feedback: which gave me affirmation, confidence, and the impetus to keep stretching
2. Questions and ideas: a lot of my best posts are written in response to a specific question or suggestion. The more questions I get the happier my muse appears to be 
3. Common endeavour: the sense of common endeavour and shared learning on this blog and in the wider online community gave me the realisation that I was doing something that was part of a bigger picture. It gave me confidence, and reinforced my positive intention to make a difference.
4. The idea: the suggestion came from one most valued reader, who knows who she is. And it seemed like a good idea to pursue.
5. Courage: your support and encouragement gave me the confidence to start
6. Perseverance: sharing ideas and tips about ways that you persist, tenaciously, and audaciously with writing projects has helped me finish mine
7. Spreading the word: this one’s not happened yet, but I’m kind of hoping you’ll help me spread the word, when the time comes
All of which might help to explain why the book is dedicated to all of you.
Thank you.
~ ~ ~
This post is a contribution to the Writing Lessons group writing project. If you’d like to take part there’s still time – it’s open till next Friday (27th)
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Joanna,
Just one word from the deep of my heart: Congratulations!
Ulla Hennigs last blog post..8 Things I am up to
Congratulations! You thoroughly deserve it!
Joely Black (@TheCharmQuark on Twitter)s last blog post..The death of an inner critic
How exciting, Joanna! Congratulations.
Lillie Ammanns last blog post..Healing Miracles: Part 3—Thanks Be to God
Joanna, This is just so awesome, there are no words for it other than, well, awesome! Congratulations!
–Debs last blog post..Irony
Joanna, CONGRATULATIONS! I have another reason to dance today! What a wonderful surprise on the first day of spring. I can’t wait to read it! I hope that you are savouring this moment, it is such a special time.
Karen xx
Karen Swims last blog post..It’s All About You
WOW!! That’s great. Congrats!
Eagerly waiting to read…
Meghnas last blog post..A Silly Tale
Congratulations. I know you’ve put a huge effort into this, bet it’s great!.
Bos last blog post..Oak Leaves
I was so happy with your achievement, Joanna and I think you’re well-deserved it! Congratulation once again and I hope my 2 cents opinions could give you some inspiration to keep you moving on from time to time…
wilsons last blog post..Try Not to Embrace Your Baby Too Often!
A big Congratulations, Joanna. Enjoy this precious acknowledgement of your talent and endeavour. I think it speaks volumes that at this time for celebration, your first instinct is to thank your readers. Your generosity always shines through your writing.
Angela Esnoufs last blog post..Twitter Time Management Tips
Thank you, everyone, for your encouragement and support. I know it sounds a bit cliched but I couldn’t have got to this point without all of you.
@Karen, I have had a most *delicious* day – it has been warm and sunny here for one thing! and thank you, so much, for all the comments which have fueled this journey so far
@wilson, you better believe it… copy in the post to you as soon as they’re in my hands
@Angela, thank you. It is simply my instinct, but I’ll accept with thanks anyway
I personally want a signed first edition. Way to go! Huge smiles here.
Janice Cartiers last blog post..Oxen and Oysters
Janice, duly noted
Joanna, Congratulations! Can’t wait to read it.
Brad Shorrs last blog post..Spiritual Renewal Monday
Thanks Brad. You will also be getting an early copy
Joanna, how exciting to see your book come to fruition. As you speak to readers, I’m always caught by your catchy words – such an expressive style. The book will spread your special charm and give readers a spark to put their pen to paper so to speak.
All the best with forward progress.
Robyn McMasters last blog post..Brain’s Amazing Right Side
Robyn, thank you! My favourite piece in the book is the last one, about the fire breathing writing dragons. And every time I read it I think of you
How could I have missed this? Now I understand the reference in your more recent post to your second book… sorry, I’m just now catching up with your writing and reading backwards. Have now remedied that by subscribing by email. That way, at least I’ll know what I am missing
My heart did a huge leap when I read this – totally thrilled for you! Let me know what I can do to help spread the word when the time comes…
OK, off to put on my party pants and dance on the table… woo hoo!
Karens last blog post..Sit quietly and be calm
Karen, probably because I blog too much
Thanks so much for your encouragement and support, and yes I absolutely will be asking you to help me spread the word. Thank you.
[...] 7 Ways You Helped Me Write a Book from Joanna at Confident Writing (that’s me) Courage: your support and encouragement gave me the confidence to start. Perseverance: sharing ideas and tips about ways that you persist, tenaciously, and audaciously with writing projects has helped me finish mine. [...]