No More Hiding
I find that as young writers, we often don't share our passion or aspirations with those around us. Why is this the case? Truthfully, I still have yet to fully understand that. But I do know this: as young/teen writers we fear criticism from the outside world and from our peers. We are afraid that people will not take our hopes and dreams seriously because we are young or will face mockery for our big dreams.
As an introvert, I have personally struggled with getting over the hurdle of promoting myself and my dreams as an aspiring author. At first, I never wanted to tell people about my writing. It felt like whenever I did, I was always torn down and stripped of my joy. It seemed that whenever I wanted to share my dreams of becoming an author someone would always begin to say the same condescending words, "Well, Lydia, if you want to be an author, you have to be prepared for..." The phrases after the dots ranged everywhere from lawsuits to copyright to not being able to compete with other writers.
It took me a long time before I learned a valuable truth. I can't hide forever. One day, I will be asked to share my writing, and when that time comes I want to be ready. So, I am no longer hiding. Now, whether it be at social events, at family visits, or some other platform, I always look for the opportunity to blurt out the phrase "I'm a writer" or "I'm an aspiring author".
I encourage you to come out of hiding and announce your goals and ambitions whenever you can. It won't always be easy, and it can feel very uncomfortable, but it is vital that you share your story. If you are criticized for your dreams, get rid of the negative and move on. As a writer you will face a lot of setbacks, but you will have to push through them and continue on. But who knows? By sharing your dreams, you might be a persona who feels the same way as you do and will support you.
So share who you are. And no more hiding.
~Lydia R. Sherren
