The journey to a published book starts with one word at a time. – Susan van der Walt

Starting in 2024, I never imagined it would be the year when I wrote my first book. I regret not writing the date down when I started, but I know it was about mid-February.
I am very logical, so it made sense to start by creating an outline for my book, and then I did a brain dump to get all my ideas and thoughts onto paper. Only then could I start researching and writing.
This project was like a precious treasure I wanted to nurture and protect, keeping it close to my heart. Thus, I didn’t talk to anyone about it for a while.
I’ve decided that writing this book must be a fun experience, so no pressure or deadlines!
The first one I shared this precious gem with was my husband. He was very enthusiastic and supportive. But with time, I regretted it a bit because he kept asking me when the book would be finished!
From there, it was easy to share with family and friends. Many writers keep their writing secret because family and friends do not understand. I am blessed with the support and encouragement I received from those I care about.
I finished the book in about 10 months and sent it to my beta readers in mid-December 2024. Three dogs in the house—my Sassy, visitor Lilly, and our new puppy Kanta—kept me from worrying too much about feedback on my book.
I can’t believe this day has finally arrived. Although I haven’t planned it this way – today, 14 February 2025, is approximately a year since I penned the first word of Silent Courage: An Introvert’s Authentic Journey with Hearing Loss.
I wrote this book to help and inspire many, and I hope you will benefit from it. However, I will always be proud of this accomplishment, even if I don’t sell a single copy.
If you buy and benefit from my book, I would be grateful if you would leave a review on Amazon or contact me to share what part of it resonated most with you.
Quiet Words that Linger.
If you’d like more reflections like this, you’re warmly invited to subscribe—or drop a comment to share your thoughts. You can also browse the Silent Courage store for stories and tools created with care.

Leave a Reply