Stepping into something new

I never imagined I'd be here — on the edge of something completely new.

After 20 months away from work, I’m investing in something that may or may not succeed. I’m putting time, energy, and money into a dream. Into an idea.

Am I completely mad?

Imposter syndrome has never been louder.

After years of study and gaining formal qualifications, I’m now stepping into a space with no clear criteria. No certificate. No governing body. No one to say, “Yes, you’ve made it.”

I’m calling myself an author. Just like that.

When I completed my teaching studies, someone reviewed the evidence and said, “Yes, you’ve met the criteria.”

But what’s the criteria for being an author?

A bestseller?

An award?

A Book Week mention?

Writing is a new world for me — far from my roots in early childhood education and leadership.

So, this leap into writing? It feels risky. Unreal. Like something meant for other people.

But I know this: writing connects me to my son, Cooper. It helps my heart heal. And in some small but meaningful way, it keeps him alive.

So I’m doing it.

I’m stepping fully into this new chapter — uncertain, but all in.

When people ask me what I do, I’m going to say:

“I’m about to publish my first children’s picture book.”

And I’m going to own it!