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Sage’s “Dear Mom,” Essays's avatar

Beautiful written reminder to be brave and share. Thank you 🙏🏽

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Kate Bown's avatar

🙏

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Kate Bown's avatar

I wanted to add how much this letter resonated with me, as a new writer, gaining confidence sharing my words in my own newsletter, slowly slowly, one day hoping to call myself a writer.

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Nicole Meier's avatar

I'm so happy to know this, Kate. If you're writing now, you can absolutely call yourself a writer! Feel free to reach out if you ever need support. p.s. Love your bio!

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Kate Bown's avatar

❤️

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Katrina Couch's avatar

Love this … I constantly struggle, always afraid my work is so “elementary” compared to all the beautiful words other writers write

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Nicole Meier's avatar

I get it. But here's some insight...it's truly about the joyful energy behind the words. My debut novel was my most amateur writing of all of my books. And yet, readers often tell me it's their favorite. Why? Because there was so much joy infused into that story. I was so happy to finally be writing and I think it shines through, despite my lack of craft. Some of my other stories have more structure, but I had a publisher breathing down my neck and the joy sort of fizzled. I believe readers can sense this. So, I say lean into the energy of your writing. I hope this gives you a shot of inspiration.

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Katrina Couch's avatar

I absolutely love this, thank you so much! That might be some of the best advice I have received!

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Nicole Meier's avatar

I'm so glad. If you ever need developmental edit support, feel free to reach out. Happy writing!

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Katrina Couch's avatar

I will definitely be in touch as soon as I’m able to hire you! ☺️

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Izzy Barry's avatar

I've felt the exact same way. At a local literary festival a few other writers offered to read my work but sending it out is nerving. Especially unpolished. My debut is set for September 2026 and I will working to get over my fear of it in the next year!

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Leslie Senevey's avatar

First sharing my writing on Substack was a big leap of faith for me. It's been more rewarding than I ever imagined. And I haven't run out of words yet!

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Nicole Meier's avatar

I love knowing this. Happy writing!

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Tara Bianchi's avatar

Thanks Nicole! I know I need to keep writing consistently, but am not quite there yet! Goals🍵

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Nicole Meier's avatar

I get it, Tara. Remember, even 30-minute chunks of uninterrupted time a couple times a week can make a difference!

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Rhiannon Harvey's avatar

I needed to read this today! I recently signed up for my first critique group with fellow writers, and I'm TERRIFIED.

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Nicole Meier's avatar

I'm so glad this hit at the right time, Rhiannon. Take the pressure off yourself and know that you don't need to be perfect...they are writers too! And also, just know that you're free to take what feedback resonates and leave what doesn't. You're the creator. Best of luck!

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