Anika Hamilton

Do You . . .

The one thing that I have noticed since starting this journey is that no matter what anyone says is the next big thing, you have to do you. You have to write what you feel comfortable with, and you definitely have to write in the genre, style, theme, category that you like. The only way to produce an excellent product for you is to not force a style upon yourself that doesn't fit.

The fact is not everyone is going to like what you write. And not everyone is going to like you. But so what? People will hate you for no other reason but because you are breathing (alive). It is the same with writing. There are people out there who will hate your stories. But there are others that will devour it and check everyday for the next story to be released.

But isn't that how life always is? Isn't it expected that life will be filled with people that hate you and people who love you? Otherwise, wouldn't life be just a tad too boring.

Courage . . .

It took me a long time to screw up enough courage to submit any of my work. I thought it to death. I hummed and aahed. I went back and forth. I was afraid of the disapproval of others, but I have lived for others for so long. I decided enough was enough. This is what I wanted to do with my life. And this is what I would do.

So what in the long run will make you happy and what's my advice as the novice in the room.

Always remember to DO YOU . . . .