10 Things I Learned From Writing My Book

My memoir, "Blank Canvas, How I Reinvented My Life After Prison," is about to turn 1.

It was officially released on May 25th, 2021.

Here are some things I learned from the 6 years I worked on it.

1. Why?

Having a Why (to help one person) was the fuel that carried me through.

2. Expectations

When I let go of expectations, I gave myself the freedom I needed to create.

3. I don’t feel like it

The days I don't want to write are the days I most need to write. I’m

4. Stuck

When I'm stuck: Write one true sentence, followed by another, followed by another. (Thank you, Hemingway)

5. Punch In

Writing is a job: Punch in at the same time every day.

6. Showing Up

What I write doesn't matter as much as showing up.

7. Self-Trust

Showing up every day builds self-trust.

8. Self-Trust 2

Self-trust is what makes the seemingly impossible, possible.

9. Experiences

What I do away from the page is as important as what I do on the page. Experiences cultivate creativity.

10. Painful Parts

The most painful parts of my story tell the best story.

11. Bonus 1

If I'm scared to write it and share it, then I have to write it and share it.

12. Bonus 2

My past cannot define me without my consent.