5 Things I learned writing my first book
“No one can tell your story the way you do.”
When I published my first book, Crimson Tales, I expected it to be exciting, maybe a little stressful. I didn’t expect it to change how I see myself, my voice, and everything around me. Here are 5 things I learned in the process:
El papel aguanta todo: Paper can hold anything; ranging from love, joy, and hope to fear, sadness, and trauma. But, if writing is healing, it is also haunting. Where putting thoughts on paper is cathartic, it also forces you to confront parts of yourself. Some chapters feel like closure, and other feel like reopening wounds.
Imposter Syndrome? Yeah, that’s real: I questioned everything: Is this good enough? Will anyone read it? The truth? No one can tell your story the way you do. You owe it to yourself to finish what you start. Self-doubt will creep in…write anyway.
Perfectionism is the Enemy: I rewrote certain lines endlessly, trying to make them “perfect.” Spoiler: They never will be. At some point, you have to let go. Done is better than perfect, and rawness often resonates more than over-polished.
You’re not just a Writer; You’re a Voice: I realized I wasn’t just typing words. I was building a world for someone else to step into. The characters, emotions, and silences, all matters. Even the commas matter. Readers don’t just read your story; they feel it, if you let them.
People will surprise you: Not everyone will “get” your book. Some won’t read it. Some will read it and stay silent. And then… a few will love it more than you do. I learned to write for those few, the ones who feel seen in your words. You don’t need applause from everyone; you need connection with someone.
If you’re holding a story inside, you write it. Start messy, stay honest, and trust the process.