Happy New Year, 12 x 12 Friends! With a new year, we get to kick off 12 new Featured Author posts! Join us today as Dane Liu gets us started by talking about that little voice in your head. (We know you hear it too. )
Be sure to mark your calendar for 2022 registration. Registration for 2021 GOLD members begins January 11th. Registration for members returning at the SILVER level begins January 13th and registration for the general public (also known as writer friends we haven’t met yet) begins January 14th. Find out more on our Membership Page. We’re looking forward to a great year of 12 x 12 and we can’t wait to cheer you on your writing journey!
Now, take it away, Dane!
Dear friends,
Happy 2022! When Kelli asked me to write this first post of the year, I was honored and excited. Then it dawned on me. What do I talk about that you haven’t heard before???
As writers, we face this quandary all the time. It seems as though every story has been written, every theme already explored. But then again, like all art forms, it is our perspective that evokes, reveals, and illuminates. So here we go…
I started writing for children a few years ago. Parenthood opened my eyes to this genre and also what’s missing: stories that explore a variety of experiences, that center children like mine, that honor the rich diversity of our world.
My debut picture book FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS, FOREVER (illus. by Lynn Scurfield) releases this month. It celebrates friendship and love, how they empower us during difficult times, how they transcend our differences, and how they endure. The story is inspired by my life. When I was a child, my parents and I moved here from Northeastern China. I didn’t speak English. One flight across the Pacific Ocean, and I lost my friends, my relatives, and my connection to the world. Now, decades later, I understand this part of my life beyond myself and appreciate what my parents experienced, too. This week, I listened to my six year old read the book aloud to my parents. It was a powerful moment, one that compelled her to ask about our history, our American story, and therefore her own.
When I trace my journey to this book, a few moments stand out: finding my first critique group, working with my mentor, signing with my agent. These key events have something in common—saying “YES!”
In 2017, I was writing PBs and hungry for feedback. Our regional SCBWI was hosting an evening gathering, where I could meet local writers and possibly find a critique group. It’d been a crazy work month. A voice swirled in my head.
Go home.
Look at this traffic!
It’s on the other side of the river!
Do it another time.
Would it even make a difference?
I followed the voice for a couple of blocks then steered the other way. At the event, I met a critique group that had an opening. Over the years, our group evolved. Every critique partner has taught me so much, and I am grateful. We all need literary soulmates, whom we depend on for feedback, who know our strengths and weaknesses, whose work we help grow—and grow from.
It was one of my amazing CPs who told me about the mentorship program at We Need Diverse Books. But when I found out, the application was due in just a couple of days. I remember reading the requirements—essays, manuscript, pitch—and the voice came back.
You can’t make it!
You know how many people will apply?
You won’t get it anyway…
In the end, I didn’t listen. I stayed up two nights in a row and sent in my application. It was during my mentorship in 2018 that Friends are Friends, Forever was born and revised, and the book is dedicated to WNDB and my mentor Jim Averbeck.
I think we’ve all heard the voice I’m talking about.
It’s too hard.
There’s no time.
I’m not good enough.
Etcetera, etcetera, etcetera.
It whispered to me while I queried agents and submitted FRIENDS. It mutters still when I write that terrible first draft or revise a manuscript for the 27th time. I can’t get rid of the voice, and maybe that’s not the point. But I am getting better at turning it down, so that the voice doesn’t decide for me.
Clarification… As we know, every opportunity we seize is another one relinquished. So saying “yes” includes saying “no” to writing, and “yes” to taking a break instead, to nurturing ourselves in another way, to spending time with the people we love. We are human first. Our humanity is also what makes our perspective interesting.
A few other thoughts…
A writer writes. Whether agented, published, and/or best selling, our claim to this glorious title is based on action, attention, intention, and consistency. Nothing else.
A writer reads.
A writer needs community—brainstormers, listeners, cheerleaders, readers. Thank you for being mine.
I’d like to share a quote by bell hooks, who passed away as I wrote this post.
“Love is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.”
In 2022, I’d like to apply this understanding of love to writing. Let’s say it, slowly.
“Writing is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.”
Yes, it is.
Wishing you peace, love, and good health,
Dane
Dane Liu believes in the power of stories to affirm, transport, and transform. Her debut children’s book Friends are Friends, Forever (Henry Holt & Co. BYR) is a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection. She received her BA from the University of Toronto and her M.S. in Journalism from Columbia University. Her upcoming books include Laolao’s Dumplings (Henry Holt & Co. BYR) and a nonfiction picture book (Viking/Penguin) that profiles Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, who have made significant contributions to the U.S. and the world.
Dane is offering a copy of FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS, FOREVER as our first check-in prize of the year! Be sure to renew your membership or join by January 31st and write a new picture book draft to enter the January 2022 check-in drawing. Start this year off right!
NEW! Our Featured Author books can now be found in the 12 x 12 Bookstore on Bookshop.org. Proceeds from sales on our Bookshop.org site go to the 12 x 12 Scholarship Fund! Check it out here!
444 Responses
Dane, Thank you for such an inspiring post. Helping us quiet that voice and say YES is a skill I keep honing. Sharing your journey in writing is so kind.
Thank you, Nancy. Happy New Year!
What an inspiring post! We all have that little voice. I’m glad you listened to the other more inspiring voices and kept at it. We all need sweet hopeful books like the kind you wrote. Congratulations!!
Thank you, Eileen. Happy writing!
Thank you, Dane, for that beautiful and encouraging quote. I’m putting it where I can see it every day. And thank you for reminding me to say yes and stop doubting. All of your post is useful for starting 2022 off to a great writing year.
Best wishes to you!
I love that. Thank you, Jeannette!
bell hook’s words live on! Thank you, Dane, for reminding us that The Voice gets to ride in the car but doesn’t get to steer!
Well said. Happy steering in 2022, Patricia!!
Dane, what a perfect first post of the new year! Thank you for sharing your journey and for your encouraging words. Reading you post today is just what I needed to start my 2022 writing year. Congratulations on your success, Dane!
I’m so glad. Happy 2022, Maria!!
Thanks so much for such an encouraging post. As we think about goals for the new year it is so helpful to have someone tell us to keep writing.
Yes keep going. That’s the only part, where we have a say (and enjoy)!!
What beautiful words of encouragement and so aptly timed. Thank you, Dane! Congrats on your beautiful book!
I’m so happy to share. Thank you, Marci!!
My goal this year is to prove that little nagging voice wrong! Thanks for the encouragement to pursue that goal!
YES! All the power to you, Marcia!!
Congrats on your debut picture book! I agree: CPs are so important on a writer’s journey.
They are!! Happy writing, K!
Agree: writing is action. Still hear the voices and still procrastinate at times, but commitment to action is the key for me. Thanks for affirming and congrats on your book.
Glad it connected with you. Thank you, Linda!
Thanks for the great post on saying yes to kick off 2022 for us! Congrats on Friends are Friends, Forever!
My pleasure. Thank you, Suzie!!
What a powerful and uplifting post! Thank you.
Congratulations on your upcoming books.
So happy to hear that. Thank you, Barbara!!
My voice wants me to stay on my comfy couch and be an introvert. It also tells me I’m an imposter. Thank you for this inspiring, bad-voice-hushing post! Congrats on your book!
I hear them, too! Pick and choose the voices that empower you!! It’s not easy, but we can try. Happy 2022, Dedra!!
Thanks for sharing such an inspirational post!
Thank you for reading, Heather 🙂
This was the perfect first post of the year to start off 2022 in a mindset of creativity and inspiration! Thank you and I look forward to reading all your books!
Thank you, Melissa. Happy New Year!
Critique partners are so important! Thanks for sharing your journey. Congrats on your debut!
They are!! Thank you, Susan 🙂
What a lovely reminder and great way to start the new year! Thank you, Dane, and congratulations on your debut book!
Thank you, Lauri. Happy writing!!
Great post, Dane! Thank you for giving us a peek at your writing journey. We all need to quiet that “Doubting Thomas Voice” and learn to say YES more often. In 2022, I hope to prove that nagging inner demon wrong.
We’ll do it together! Happy New Year to you 🙂
I LOVE this: “Writing is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.” Thank you for sharing your wisdom!
It’s thanks to bell hooks, who’s helped me understand so much. Glad you like it, too. Thank, Lynn!
Thank you for sharing your powerful and inspiring story. And congratulations on the launch of your new book!
I’m so glad you connected with it. Thank you, Dan!
So many of the things you wrote resonate, but especially “A writer needs community—brainstormers, listeners, cheerleaders, readers.” We are fortunate to have SCBWI, all its regional entities, and communities like 12x12PB to be active both with and for writers. Thank you.
Agreed!! Thank you, Marcia 🙂
Thank you so much, Dane. You had me at ‘a writer needs community’!! Thank you for sharing a bit of your writing journey with us…and CONGRATULATIONS on FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS, FOREVER. I’m excited to connect with you.
Thank you, Vivian. And congratulations on all your beautiful books!! So happy to connect.
Thank you for sharing your journey, Dane! What a great post to start the year : )
Thank you, Sara. Happy New Year to you!!
Thank you for this lovely post, Dane! I look forward to reading your book.
Thank you, Sarah. Happy reading and writing!!
What a nice story. I’m glad you were able to find your critique group, make friends in the USA, and get your PB published. Continued success!
Thank you, Chelle!!
Thank you for this inspiring post, Dane! I’m looking forward to reading your book and seeing more from you.
Thank you for your kind words, Rose. Happy New Year!
Thank you for your wise words about acknowledging that inner critique but out voting that voice toward action. I also I love the idea of taking time to nurture our selves, not just our writer selves.
Yes to both! Thank you, Karen 🙂
Dane, thank you for this beautiful and inspiring post–turning that inner voice into positive action is a great way to start this new writing year. Congratulations on your debut!
Happy writing, Lisa. Thank you for your kind words and wishes!
Hi Dane,
Thank you for talking about that little voice of doubt and sharing your writing journey. Congrats on your success.
Thank you, Laurie. Happy 2022 to you!
Congratulations, Dane! I’m familiar with that icky internal voice. Thank you for sharing your inspirational thoughts and congratulations on your new and upcoming books! Marvelous!
It’s my pleasure. Thank you, Shaunda!
Thanks, Dane, for giving voice to the small voice inside that causes so much distraction and eagerly gives excuses for me to give in and give up. You are spot on with your ideas and your determination to go the opposite way. I will remember you the next time I hear the voice of excuses.
Look forward to being there, Marjie!! Happy New Year to you 🙂
Your book looks beautiful! Congrats! And what a wonderful attitude you have. Good for you for continuing to ignore the negative thoughts. I know how hard that is! 🙂
Thank you, Rebecca!!
Thank you Dane for writing this post and encouragement us to keep going no matter how long it takes.
Our need to explore and write brought us here. And it’s the one that stays with us on good days and bad. Keep going, Sheri!! 🙂
I can definitely relate to that “voice”! Thanks for sharing!!
My pleasure, Maureen! Happy New Year.
What a coincidence! I had JUST put your book on hold at my library (online) less than 1 minute before I opened up the 12×12 blog and saw that you are the featured author this month! Wow! (I put your book on hold because I have an international friendship story that’s in my heart to write someday and I think your book might be a good model/mentor text.) Thank you for the encouraging post, and I’m looking forward to reading your book!
Wonderful, Amy. I can’t wait to borrow your book from the library, soon!!
Thank you for the wonderful post. Your book sounds delightful. Congratulations!
Thank you, Karin!!
What a beautiful story! And thanks so much for the encouragement and reminders of making choices (and sometimes not listening to the voices who tell us it will never work). Best wishes!
Thank you, Angie! Best wishes to you, too.
I’m so glad you didn’t listen to those negative voices, Dane. They have been way too active in my head as of late, and I so appreciate hearing your story and knowing what’s possible beyond those voices. Best wishes to you and your continued success!
Thank you, Jennifer. Happy 2022!
Thank you, Dane, for your positivity. I’m saying the understanding of the love of writing with you: “Writing is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.” Congratulations and best wishes for your journey in writing.
Yes, in unison, again and again. It’s hard, conscious, and oh so good. Happy writing, Charlotte!
Oh, this is exactly the pep talk I needed to kick off the new year. Thank you, Dane! I look forward to reading FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS, FOREVER!
I’m so glad. Thank you, Elizabeth!
Congrats, Dane! Excited to read your debut! Thank you for this lovely and inspiring post!
Thank you, Kari. Happy reading and writing!
What a lovely “story behind the story” start to the year. Congrats and good luck on your picture book launch! We need realistic voices in our minds sometimes (at least I do…LOL!), but the difference between realistic and pessimistic can be hard to parse when times are tough or stressful — like, oh, over the last couple of years, especially. 🙂 Thanks for the good reminder that opening doors to see what’s behind them takes courage and work, but that both of those things are (usually) more under our control than we think. 🙂 Happy 2022!
Everything you said!! Happy 2022, Elayne 🙂
What a beautiful post, Dane! I will be working on saying no to the negative voice and yes to the positive one this year. Thank you so much for this wonderful encouragement, and congratulations on your book! I can’t wait to read it! 🙂
Thank you, Abby 🙂 Happy New Year!!
What an inspiring story you have, Dane. Congrats on your books. Kudos to you for saying YES to new opportunities.
Appreciate your kind words, Dee. Happy New Year!
For 2022, my focus phrase is plant hope, plant heart. Thank you for sharing your story.
Let’s all plant hope and plant heart. Thank you, Joyce!
Thank you, Dane, for your inspiring post and advice re the inner voice. Wishing you continued success in 2022!
So happy it resonates with you. Thank you, LouAnn!!
Thank you Dane. This is inspiring. It’s so important to keep trying despite rejection. Also, there is no better topic for kids than friendship that endures. Can’t wait to read your book. Happy New Year.
Thank you, Marcia!! Happy writing 🙂
Awesome, Dane, and congratulations on your book and those to come!
Thank you, Lindsay!! Happy 2022 🙂
Thank you for your wonderful examples of the different results we get depending on which little voice we listen to. And congratulations!
Thank you, Nina+Nolan! Happy writing in 2022.
Negative thoughts – a bane for us all. Thank you for sharing your journey and modeling how we too can cope with and change the negative thoughts that whisper to us.
Glad it connects with you, Diane! Happy writing 🙂
Weird that I nearly just messaged a friend with the sign-off “your forever friend” then thought of the lyrics to Michael W. Smith’s song Friends which resound in the title of your book, and that I read this post this same evening. Congrats on your book, and I do like your re-use of that quote!
Love the serendipity! Thank you, Trisha 🙂
Saying yes has been a scary part of my journey too. But eventually finding my community
of fellow writers has made it worthwhile. I’m in love with the cover of your book. Living in
a college community where people move in and out so often, I love the idea that friendships
can hold on beyond borders and time.
Beyond borders and time indeed. Thank you for sharing, Tanya!
Thank you for the beautiful inspiration! I especially like the thought that our humanity is what makes our perspective interesting.
I love that thought, too. Happy writing, Peggy!
What a beautiful and inspiring story to kick off the year. Community is so important, in writing and in life!
Yes it is. Happy New Year, Taylor!
ah the voice – how quick it is to pop up and nag! thank you for writing about it. ignoring it brought me to 12 by 12
Thank you for such an inspiring post, Dane! Congratulations on Friends Are Friends Forever. Looking forward to reading it!
I hope you enjoy it. Thank you, Donna !
Congratulations on your book! Thank you for this post. I look forward to a year of connecting with writers and writing.
Me too. Happy 2022, Maria!
Thank you for sharing your journey to success. You give me hope!!
And we give each other hope. Thank you, Carol!
Hello Liu Dane, Thank you for sharing! My first year here at 12×12. I am inspired by your post and people’s comments.
Hello Li Wang! This is a great community. Welcome!!
Thank you so much, Dane, for sharing your journey with us and for your encouraging words! Congratulations on the release of “Friends Are Friends Forever”! Can’t wait to read it!
Thank you so much, Alice! Happy New Year 🙂
Dane, thank you for this inspiring post where you’ve clearly been reading my mind ;-). Happy New Year!
So glad, Audrey! Happy New Year to you 🙂
This is so thoughtful, Dane. Thank you!
Thank you, Tina 🙂
Thank you for the reminder not to let my internal party pooper steal my joy!
We all need it! Happy New Year, Rebecca 🙂
You know I love this book, Dane! Congrats!
Oh, Ellen. Thank you thank you ❤️
“A writer writes. Whether agented, published and/or best selling, our claim to this glorious title is based on action, attention, intention and consistency. Nothing else.”
Thank you Dane Liu for this powerful message and important affirmation. It is so easy to lose our way and authentic voice. I look forward to receiving my purchase of your book!
So glad it connects, Karen!! Hope you enjoy the book, and thank you 🙂
I got your book from the library and it is BEAUTIFUL. The language is just gorgeous. Thank you for sharing your story.
Aww, Sara, so happy to hear. Thank you for reading and for your kind words!!
Aww, Sara, so happy to hear. Thank you for reading and for your kind words!!
Great post, Dane! Congratulations! A truly GORGEOUS book, relatable on so many levels.
I am so glad you connected with the story. Thank you, Eva!
Great way to start the year Love the inspiring quotes. Thank you for sharing !
Congratulations on your new book(s) and Good Luck !
You’re welcome, Jim. Thank you and happy writing!
Thank you, Dane, for sharing your writing journey. It is so inspirational. I plan on reviewing your post throughout the year.
That makes me so happy. Thank you, Brenda!
It’s so comforting to know that we all have that little voice!
We all do!! Happy writing, Emily 🙂
Such a beautiful story. Thanks for the encouraging words to all writers. Congratulations on your success! (PS I love your glasses!)
LOL. Thank you, Lori, from me AND my glasses!
Thank you Dane for the inspiration and encouragement. Taking that first step to go to an SCBWI meeting- yes, that first step is always scary and I try to remind myself to step outside the comfort zone and take the chance.
Thank you, Mary. Here’s to courage in 2022!!
Thank you Dane for the great post. You’re comment about leaving your friends and relatives and everything you knew behind was so powerful. Your courage and perseverance are inspiring. I look forward to reading your book.
Thank you, Cathy. Happy New Year!
Thank you Diane! So glad you did not give up!
Let’s all NOT give up. Happy writing, Shelly!
Thank you for the inspiration, Dane. I love the stories of the voices in your head, and how you managed to rise above them to succeed. Congratulations on your debut!
What a lovely post. Thank you for sharing your story and reminding us about say all sorts of yeses. 🙂
Dane Liu – This was the year I vowed to re-find the joy in writing. Your words inspire me to say yes to opportunities and to stop listening to that other little voice. Your book is going on my must-read list, and I look forward to seeing your life experiences reflected in that story. “A writer reads, writes, and needs community” are words to remember, as is the quote. It may become my mantra for the year. Thank you for your inspiring post.
Thank you for the inspiration, Dane and congratulations on your beautiful book!
Thank you for a great reminder of our inter-voice trying to get us off track. I enjoyed the article. Congratulations on your book. Good Luck!
Dane, thank you for the reminder to be conscious of our potential and follow THAT, rather than the limiting voice. And congrats on this beautiful book! I love that your child read it to your parents. Magical!!
Thank you so much for your wonderful post! And congratulations on FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS, FOREVER. I can’t wait to read it!
When trying to shush that voice that whispers that it’s been done before, I will remember this simple gem from your post, “like all art forms, it is our perspective that evokes, reveals, and illuminates.”
Dane,
Thank you for such a refreshing and open look at being a writer and the fluidity of critique groups! You are inspiring.
Samantha
This is so spot on. Thanks for sharing your experiences and bringing inspiration for the rest of us!
I love your book! I just got it from the library to read to my class this week. So good. Congratulations!
Dane,
Thanks for reminding us that we all deal with that voice that says we can’t, and thanks for reminding us that, yes, we actually can!
Marla
Happy New Year to you & thanks for all your encouraging words!
Dane, Your words are inspiring. That voice lives inside me, and I need to learn to ignore the negative. Ronda
Thank you for sharing part of your journey and the reminder that we can silence those negative voices and embrace the positive ones. I also really appreciate what you shared about love and want to incorporate that into my daily focus. Can’t wait to read your books, Dane! Congratulations on making your dreams happen!
Very encouraging – thank you! I look forward to reading your debut PB!
Thank you so much Dane for this post, for the reminder that the more we ignore our inner critic, the better we get at doing it.
Thank you!!
Congratulations on your book! Keep soaring!!!
Thank you for sharing your journey, tips and encouragement! You are an inspiration to all regardless of where we are on that road. Congrats on your debut!
Strange, my little voice must know yours. I appreciate your putting my own struggles into words and for the inspiration you provide!
This was so inspiring, thank you! I have that same little voice in my head and a young son who I can give a voice if I just keep at this manuscript. I really appreciate your story and your encouragement to keep marching forward!
I’m so glad it resonated with you, Tara. Thank you, and keep on keep on!
Thank you, Dane, for your inspirational message of perseverance, and checking one’s internal narrative 🙂 Congratulations on getting your books published!
Thank you, Teresa. Happy writing in 2022!
Thank you, Dane. I heard that voice when I began writing two and a half years ago, and let it pester me for a long time. Now when it comes, I put it on a mental shelf labeled, “Do Not Touch.” It has taken me all this time to learn about putting it there. This is a new year and a new me.
What a great post to encourage other writers to not listen to the voice that says they aren’t good enough!
Love it!!!! Such an inspiring post! 💜💜💜
Thanks for sharing your story, very inspirational! …and congratulations on your book!!! 🙂
Beautiful post, Dane! Thank you for sharing your very real journey. I can certainly relate to that pesky voice. How amazing to see your beautiful book. Can’t wait to read it.
Thank you for such a wonderful, vulnerable post, Dane. It helps to know that even the authors we admire still hear “the voice.”
Dane,
You are so right that writers need a community. I am so glad I am here to listen and learn. Your new picture book looks great.
Wonderful, relatable post, Dane! One of my resolutions for 2022 is to see where “yes” takes me rather than allowing self-doubt or my comfort zone to close doors. Thank you for sharing your journey and words of encouragement. Congratulations on your debut!
Congratulations on your new book! I can’t wait to read it!
The post we all needed to start off the year “write.” -no pun intended. What struck me was when she wrote we are human first. And saying “yes” to writing also means “no.” To honor rest, take breaks, and live life is my goal this year. We need to take a break from it all and be refreshed to keep going. That’s been something that’s helped me! <3 Wishing you all a great 2022. Let's do this!
I always imagined writing solo in a cabin, but you can’t do it alone.
” every opportunity we seize is another one relinquished.”–YES!! Sometimes, well a lot of the time, we tend to keep saying yes and forget to say no. Then everything suffers! Thanks for sharing your writer’s journey & congrats on your book baby!!!!
Great advice! Thanks!
This is beautiful and inspiring. I want to re-read monthly to keep your message in my frontal lobe! In addition to turning down the voice I will cherish this- “We all need literary soulmates, whom we depend on for feedback, who know our strengths and weaknesses, whose work we help grow—and grow from.”
What a beautiful post! How something traumatic in your past is bringing hope to children today. Thank you.
Thanks for the inspiring post!
Dane, this is such beautiful and inspiring post! What a great way to kick off the year. I have a little voice that sounds eerily similar to yours. I am so glad that you didn’t listen to yours and now you will be a published author. Congratulations! Your book sounds like it will be so powerful and remarkable. I can’t wait to read it! Thank you for sharing part of your writing journey. I know that I am inspired.
The doubt monster dogs me constantly but as I grow older I know nothing will happen if I don’t try. Thanks for showing your own insecurities and success.
What a beautiful post! I can’t wait to read your book.
It really IS about listening to the RIGHT voice, isn’t it? I’ll have to keep reminding myself of that! Thanks!!!
This is such a powerful reminder to only give that little voice in our heads so much weight in our decisions! Thank you, Dane, for sharing your story and wisdom. Can’t wait to read your book!
Dane, I love this post! It’s so, so easy to listen to that voice in your head. It’s a constant struggle to fight against it, but so worth it. Huge congrats on your upcoming book!
Thank you so much for this post. I really needed to hear this as I am newer to writing and feel overwhelmed at times and wonder if I should just not pursue it anymore. But I love it so much! Your words are inspiring and motivating. Thanks for sharing your journey.
The perfect way to start the new year! thank you!
Thank you for this inspiring post to start the year! I will definitely carry this message with me during 2022.
Congratulations on your debut picture book! It looks beautiful.
Thanks for sharing your story! Looking forward to reading your book!
Thank you Dane for these inspiring words. May we all learn to quiet that inner critic.
Thank you Dane, for your encouraging post! And sharing your story. Congratulations on your debut! I look forward to reading it.
Congrats on your book coming out this month! I’ve already marked it at my library as to read when it’s available. It’s so hard to fight that little voice of doubt in our heads, but you’re an inspiration to keep telling it “yes I can!”
Ah, the voice ! You’ve had a wind journey , wishing you the best!
Ah, the voice ! You’ve had a wonderful journey , wishing you the best!
Thank you Dane, for such an inspiring post. Congratulations on your heartwarming book. Wishing you much continued success in your writing journey. ❤️🙏🏾❤️
So sweet and so important for our world today.
Dane, I enjoyed and am inspired by the story behind your story, and I appreciate the reminder to say yes. Congratulations on FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS, FOREVER!
Beautiful post. Love the hug on the cover.
Dane thank you for sharing your journey. Congratulations on your book babies❤️
Thank you, Dane. This was inspiring and encouraging as we start a new year of writing!
Thank you, Dane, for your inspiring post. Congratulations on silencing that negative “voice,” and creating your beautiful stories!
That voice! It’s so prevalent, so defeating, so in need of constant silencing. Thank-you, Dane, for naming it again and encouraging us to listen to a yes-I-can-do-it voice instead.
Thanks for the encouragement to push past that no!
Dane, thank you for this post. It was so inspiring and I loved your aside about self-care and taking breaks! Congrats on this beautiful book!
This is a great read! A great story about friendship.
What a great post, Dane! Thank you so much!
“Writing is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.”
It sure is. Thank you, Dane for this beautiful post.
Beautiful post! Congrats!
What a wonderful post for a new year! Thanks!
Thanks for your wonderful post! This is a great start to a new year!
I love your spirit of reflection, Dane, and the bell hooks quote is now in my journal to start my day tomorrow! Thank you.
This was such a beautifully written post. Thank you for sharing!
Dane,
This resonated so deeply with me. I have been working hard to silence that little voice that keeps trying to diminish what I know I can be and do. I thought I knew children’s books as an elementary teacher but, like you, my eyes were opened in a completely new way to them when I had my own children. Thank you for sharing the story behind FRIENDS. I can’t wait to read it to my children.
What an inspiring post—thank you! Can’t wait to read your book!
Dane, this was so full of heart, thank you so much for sharing!
Sounds like a lovely story/
Thank you for this inspiration, Dane!
What a beautiful book!
Wow! Can’t wait to read your book. It sounds wonderful!
Great post about saying “Yes” in those moments we feel like saying “No”. Thanks!
I loved all of this! I had the same voice in my head when I was starting writing. Thank you for sharing this experience and inspiring quote. I cannot wait to read your book – it looks magnificent ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you, Dane, for this inspiring post. Congratulations on your books! Wishing you much success!!
This is the perfect post for starting a new year. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and inspiration with us. And congrats on your book!
Dane, thank you for this wonderful post! I call the voice that makes me doubt myself imposter syndrome. Congratulations on your beautiful book Friends Are Friends Forever!
Thank you so much for this inspiring post! Congratulations on your debut, I cannot wait to read it!
Congratulations! And thank you for the inspirational push to create!
Thank you for your bountiful inspiration, Dane!
Thank you for your inspirational words! It is very easy to let those negative voices fill our heads. It is true we do not all sound like Jane Yolen or Shel Silverstein, but our unique voices, our unique perspectives are just as badly needed
What a beautiful book! Thank you for sharing part of your journey.
Such a wonderful message! This is a great reminder to believe in myself as the year gets going. Thank you!
Thank you for the post. You have a beautiful book.
What an inspirational story! I have grown to love the writing community! I just signed up for my first critique group, and I hope it helps me grow just like yours did!
Congratulations on your beautiful book!
Thank you for this beautiful, inspirational and important post! I might have to print it out so I can read it again and again. Especially when I need to drown out that voice. Congrats on your debut book!
Thank you for your reflection. A powerful reminder to not talk ourselves out of opportunities and to say yes to ourselves and our ideas!
Can’t wait to read it!
Thank you for so many words of advice! Your final thoughts are affirmations I’m going to note for myself. This is a wonderful post to start off my 2022 writing! Congratulations on your book!
Thank you for your post! It’s so hard to manage the inner critic.
This is such a beautiful post written from the heart. Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability. I am so happy for you and very glad you said YES! I will remember this!
Thank you for sharing this inspiring story!
Thank you for sharing!
It’s difficult in the beginning to ignore that voice, especially when it is echoed by family members who give conflicting comments like “I really think you should be a writer! But you need to change pretty much everything you’ve written.” Luckily, my critique groups offer more support as well as constructive advice, so I can continue to write, learn and grow.
“Writers need community”
YESSSS!! 🙌🏼🙌🏼
“Writing is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.”
Thank you for your words of encouragement! Best of luck with the book!
Thank you for sharing the story of your journey to becoming a published author. The message you imparted will never grow old. It is just the reminder I need to keep going, to keep writing stories–the ones only I can tell.
What a great way to kick off the year — such an inspiring story of how you became an author and great advice too. Thank you for sharing! I feel excited for all of the writing and reading in 2022.
Thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much for sharing your story! I’m finally making the time to fulfill a lifelong dream, but as I’m just starting this journey I’ve been hesitant to refer to myself specifically as a writer. Here’s to claiming “this glorious title” and a year of focusing on “action, attention, intention, and consistency.”
This story sounds very relatable! Especially as I was just reunited with a childhood friends after 30 years apart and we happened to wear lookalike shoes 🙂
Thank you so much Dane for these inspiring words. I’ve just joined my first critique group this year through 12×12 and I’m so happy to be working with such a great group of writers. I’ve already started off this year highly motivated, but your words have somehow encouraged me even more.
Dane, Thanks for reminding me that it’s all about perseverance. So happy that yours has paid off and congrats on your upcoming picture book!
I love Dane’s personal journey and saying YES to each next step. This a beautiful story of friendship with a beautiful cover that truly captures what’s inside! Bravo!
Tale of a great journey. . Thank you for sharing your experiences. I am looking forward to a great year.
This was such an inspiring story. Thank you Dane for sharing your words of wisdom. Congratulations on your beautiful books and Happy New Year!
Thanks for this inspiring post, and the reminder to change the conversation in our heads when those doubting voices start talking! Congratulations on FRIENDS!
What a lovely and encouraging post! I’m so thankful you learned to say yes at the right times so that we can learn from your experience. May we all do the same! Happy new year! Your book looks beautiful and I look forward to reading it! Thank you!
Thanks Dane for talking about that inner voice of self doubt that we experience from time to time. And, showing that persistence can make the difference when you silence that voice.
Priceless. ♥️ “Writing is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.” 🙏🏻 Thank you, Dane!
“Writing is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.” Love this. Thanks for an inspiring post to start the year.
What a beautiful story, Dane, and a beautiful cover. Thanks for sharing the importance of a critique group. Happy Lunar New Year!
This is great advice to start the year with. I will kick that naysaying voice in my head to the sidelines and continue plowing through. Thank you so much 😊
Sometimes it’s hard to ignore those nagging voices! Thank you for this inspiring post at the start of the year.
I often have that voice as well, but I want so badly for my idea to come to life that I am not giving up. Thank you for the encouraging words!
It can be so hard to push through the doubts (and the comforts of home when they call). Congratulations on finding your literary soul mates and creating this beautiful book!
Thank you for the encouragement! Can’t wait to read this book with my daughter!
Thank you for sharing your story and your wisdom!
Beautiful words! Congrats on your book, Dane! Can’t wait to read it! 🙂
What a wonderful and inspiring story. Thank you!
I love the idea of focusing on saying yes. My goal since I started writing kidlit is to push myself to grow, even if parts of that process make me uncomfortable. It has definitely helped my writing improve much faster than if I just kept trying to do it myself without any critique groups or classes.
I love your quote. Thank you for a great post to start the year!
What a nice way to start the New Year! Thank you for your inspirational words.
I battle that little voice in my head, too! Thanks for the honest reflection and congratulations.
Thank you for this wonderful post, Dane! I really appreciate your perspective and how you drew from your childhood to write your story. It’s always so interesting to hear how people’s personal experiences inform a story. And your persistence is inspiring! I’m glad you kept going!
Thank you for this inspiring post! Thanks for the reminder to tune out the discouraging voice, and to instead say yes!
Such a great post for a kid in my life right now. We have a family that moved to the US during the pandemic from Libya and they are missing their friends terribly. I will have to check out your book! Congratulations for looking for the yes and finding it!
Dane, your post is uplifting, inspirational, and energizing. A splash of cold water on the face of this author, revitalizing her to begin storytelling for 2022. Thank you for sharing your journey with such honesty and heart. I agree about finding “Literary Soulmates.” I found mine through “12 x 12” two years ago and we’re still going strong online. I’m in Kansas, Val’s in Indiana, and Emily’s in Singapore! Sending you JOY and ENERGY for your continued success…
A Writer WRITES. I needed to hear that. And to remind myself that dictating ideas while driving is, at least, a start!
Thanks so much for reminding me not to listen to my “No, don’t do it” voice. A few years ago the New York lottery had the slogan “Hey, You Never Know” and I try to remember that when an opportunity comes up that I think I won’t have a shot at. Happy writing!
Dane – Your words are inspiring! Thank you for sharing your story, your journey and your advice. As a a first time writer, recently resigned retail exec, I heard the voice oh too often. “You can’t leave the security of your corporate job that you worked your entire life for to start in an industry you know nothing about! Too risky!” But I didn’t listen and I couldn’t be happier. I love what writing brings out in me and I love the connections and community it offers. Thank you! Wishing you nothing but the best.
“So saying “yes” includes saying “no” to writing, and “yes” to taking a break instead, to nurturing ourselves in another way, to spending time with the people we love.”
Such a powerful reminder. Thank you!
It is always a nice reminder to hear we are not alone in hearing that voice. Reminding ourselves not to listen and to instead choose hope and consistency above all else. Thank you, Dane!
Yes yes yes.
(And also, no, no no)
Really appreciate the talk about opportunities here!
Dane, thank you for your inspiring post. It was exactly what I needed to read today!
Dane,
Thank you for your post! I recently read your book and I LOVED it! Can’t wait to read more of your books.
-Viviane
Dane,
I love this quote:“Writing is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.”
I look forward to reading your book.
Great quote from bell hooks. I plan on rereading All About Love this year, so applying her principles of love to writing sounds wonderful. Congratulations on Friends Are Friends Forever. I look forward to reading that too!
Thank you so much for your thoughtful piece, Dane. You have helped me think about what to write but also what writing is.
I did not know how much I needed to find the writing community in order to be a writer, I’m so thankful to be here now.
What an inspiring post!! This whole thing resonates with me. I’ve been telling people for years to not say “no” to themselves but it’s harder to take my own advice. This will be a year of “yes” for me!!
Truly inspiring thoughts. Looking forward to reading Friends. Such a beautiful way to document your family story that resonates with your parents, children and all of us.
Thank you, Dane. This post resonates with me on so many levels. I’m one year into this journey, and grateful to receive- and give- community support. As for that little voice, it reminds us that we have a choice, and to choose the positive path.
“Writing is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.”
There was a lot coming up for me as I read your post. I remember my first SCBWI meeting. Those thoughts going through my head. Throughout the years, from time to time, enough energy’s built up to take a step forward. But a lot of starts and stops happened over the years. The above quote seems to speak to those parts of me that still want to run to comfort, avoid pain, and shake their heads in dismissal, disapproval, and disappointment. Well, actually, it speaks to the ME that houses those parts. It does take care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust. And sometimes it takes longer than others. Sometimes it takes lifetime to learn those skills. Thank you for sharing your experience and the quote. They both add energy to putting one foot in front of the other.
Thank You Dane, and congratulations on your book release! Ah, the power of saying “yes”, there is something mystical about it, I wonder if that’s why it’s so difficult to do sometimes. This post is such a lovely start to the year.
I love your story about how you almost went home. Glad you kept going. Can’t wait to read your book.
Dear Dane, thank you so much for this post and the ever-needed reminder that persistence is key. I love Friends Are Friends, Forever. My own friendship book is a great companion text as my Button and Bundle say goodbye to each other and Button finds a way to keep their world of play alive.
https://www.amazon.com/Button-Bundle-Gretchen-McLellan-ebook/dp/B07DT382V6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3AS16MRX9NPAW&keywords=button+and+bundle&qid=1643745884&s=books&sprefix=button+and+bundle%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1
Thank for the advice and encouragement.
Thank you so much for your post, Dane! I, too, am familiar with that voice. I appreciate your encouragement to keep writing anyway and to say “Yes” to opportunities.
Happy to know that you didn’t “go home” and decide to “do it another time”, and good luck with FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS, FOREVER.
This is the second time I’ve read about your book today! It was featured in the blog “A Kids Book a Day”. I can’t wait to read it.
Thank you, Dane, for sharing your story. I love that you shared all the insecurities and doubts on your journey too. Best of luck on your debut! You must be very proud!
Thank you for an inspiring and heartfelt post. Your experiences that informed your picture book squeezed my heart and your advice is wise. Best wishes for continued success.
Thank you for sharing your story. It’s true that writing is such a combination of things. And CPs are SO important! Happy New Year!
Thank you, Dane! I think it is so important to find a balance between saying yes and saying no. I agree that we need to recognize that we are human first and have to take care of ourselves and our families, but at the same time not be afraid to say yes to push ourselves further when the voice inside ourselves wants to say no. It is hard to find a balance, but thank you for sharing your helpful insights and promoting my thinking on the matter.
I found your post to be inspiring, especially this about writers,”… our claim to this glorious title is based on action, attention, intention, and consistency.” And your understanding of love as applied to writing. Thank you!
It’s a New Year ! Let the Fun and Writing and Revising Begin !
What a wonderful way to kick off the year. I can’t wait to get my hands on your book. Congrats!!
Such a beautiful book; words and illustrations fit together seamlessly. Indeed, we need each other.
Congratulations on your beautiful book. I just saw it on a featured shelf in Barnes and Noble and had the honor of reading it.
So many wise and encouraging words. Thank you, Dane, and congratulations on your new book.
Very inspiring post
Thank you for sharing that you too sometimes have a nagging voice of negativity in your head! It’s easy to read featured author posts and think that the road to success is paved sans doubt and fear. Thanks for the reminder that it’s part of the process, and we just have to stop listening to it. Congratulations on your book! Can’t wait to check it out!
What a beautiful post. I will continue saying “yes!”
Dane, thank you so much for your uplifting and powerful words of encouragement. I appreciate the reminder that we gain nothing without opening up ourselves to risk and turning away from negative self-talk. Very good advice!
YES! Thank you so much for sharing the positive words. I can’t wait to read your book with my family! 🙂
Thanks for an inspiring post, Dane. Congrats on your many forthcoming books!
Thank you, Dane, for the encouragement to push through and ignore the discouraging inner voice we all seem to have. Best wishes on your upcoming book releases!
Living 5000 miles away from the place I was born, I can relate. Can’t wait to read your beautiful book!
Thank you so much for this beautiful post, Dane! Everything about it was beautiful and exciting and inspiring. I have heard that voice too! I am grateful you’ve shared your experience about being brave in all facets of life and moving forward. Congratulations on the release of the new book, and all the coming ones!! ❤️
Thank you for your honesty! It’s refreshing to hear how successful authors also have to power through self-doubt. It makes it all feel a little more possible for the rest of us!
Thank you for sharing your journey. It was truly inspiring! I especially liked that you talked about your negative self talk and that you acknowledge that you will always hear it. Light bulb going on moment, you can chose not to listen to it or let it sink in. That made me think of a childhood memory I would like to try writing a manuscript for. I definitely need to order your book.
Thanks again,
Claire
“A writer writes.” Thank you for such an inspiring post! Ready to get this year started!
Love the part about every yes also being a no. I think that’s where a lot of the inner dialogue comes from, the push/pull between all the things asking for our “yes” attention.
Thank you!
Wonderful chat thank you!
Hi Dane. Thank you for sharing your story. I look forward to the day when I too can see my kids reading a story I’ve published. Your comments about the community it takes to write a book especially hit home today as I revised a pb draft that isn’t meta in genre, but is very meta of a writer’s journey and the team it sometimes takes to create. Thank you!
Yay! I’m so glad you didn’t listen to the naysayer in your head! It’s hard sometimes to push past that and do something scary and outside of our comfort zones. I have a renewed desire to push past that voice and do. Thank you!
Thanks Dane for this helpful reminder and your wise words. I’ve been struggling with ignoring that nagging voice a lot recently. Best wishes for much success on your debut and your other upcoming works. It looks beautiful!
Congratulations on your debut, and thank you for sharing your story. It confirms that perseverance is so key in reaching our goals, and that everyone has that little voice inside our heads saying “no.” Thanks for inspiring us to keep saying “yes” to ourselves 🙂
Dane, this post was amazing! I too have imposter’s syndrome, and your post helped me overcome some of that self-doubt! Thank you!! Read your book by the way, it’s amazing!! 🙂 🙂
Dane, thanks for sharing your story and reminding us to ignore that niggly, no-good voice in our heads. My library has a copy of your book. I put in my hold request and I’m excited to read it. Wishing you a happy and healthy 2022. And happy writing!
Thank you so much – what a beautiful post!
Great post. Thank you so much for sharing and bringing some much needed encouragement.
Thank you, Dane. We need constant reminders to keep that little voice within us at bay and success stories like yours provide the essential encouragement to keep on! Looking forward to reading Thank you, Dane. We need constant reminders to keep that little voice within us at bay and success stories like yours provide the essential encouragement to keep on! Loo king forward to reading Friends Are Friends, Forever!
Thanks for such a great post, my first read as a new member. I have a very loud voice in my head that makes terrible suggestions about my writing passion, so I really connected to your subject. I’m so glad you didn’t listen to that voice and found your writing voice, instead. I can’t wait to read your book.
Thanks for this post, Dane. So inspirational and encouraging, and I needed to read this post today!! Congrats on your book FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS, FOREVER. I can’t wait to get my own copy and read!
I know those voices! They talk to me, too! Thank you for sharing your courage and reminding me that I am not my thoughts! Blessings to you!
Dane, you are so right about the voice. Thank you for your timely encouragement! Congratulations on your new book.
Thank you for sharing your story, Dane! I am so glad your children drew you to kid lit!
Dane, thank you for your encouragement. In the new year, I commit to quieting that negative voice and raising my voice to say, “Yes!” Even when it feels scary and uncomfortable.
So happy for you. Congratulations!
Say yes…what a difficult thing to practice and do. Thank you for sharing your process and your inspiration.
Thanks so much, Dane, for such an inspiring post! I am so comforted to know that I’m not the only one with “the voice!” I also found it particularly affirming to hear your words about what makes a person a “writer.” I often joke, “can I even call myself a writer if I am not yet published?” So thanks, Dane, for helping us all understand what truly makes a writer. Congratulations on your forthcoming publication!
This is the community for me too Dane. I’m so very excited to meet and be inspired by all 12×12 PB writers. This is a positive place to belong.
It’s hard to ignore that little negative voice but your encouraging words will help to drown it out in the future.
I, too, hear those voices! Your post was so inspiring! I’m working on listening to the more positive voices! Thanks!
Beautiful book and inspirational story! Thank you!!
Dane,
Thanks for crafting this thoughtful posting. As humans in general but especially as writers, we all have to fight every day to silence that voice. This was the perfect reminder to keep doing just that.
Oh, this post was so wonderful to read! Especially since I battled that voice that was telling me to go to bed. Instead, I showed up and checked out some 12×12 things I’d been wanting to get to but hadn’t had time for the last few days. Feeling so inspired and so glad that I’m here 😀
I have heard that voice many, many times— in 2021 especially. But that’s why I’m here! Great post. Excited to get started.
Thank you, Dane, for inspiring me to keep writing!
As a longtime World Language, ESL teacher and mother who wants my kids to know experiences outside their own, I am continually grateful for authors like you who have persisted to pour their culture, voice and perspective out in books. So glad you won out over “the voice!”
Congrats on your book, and I completely echo Kristen’s comment above mine! 🙂
I’ll get very quiet and listen for the whispers…:)
beautiful story .. (yours I mean), and can’t wait to get your book also! I have been hearing just those voices you speak of, and even tho I did commit to this 12×12, it is my only ‘support-group’ right now. It is so easy to get frustrated, by the drafts and re-drafts, and the wondering how many do I do, and should I just toss this story and start over? And to think, can I really do this? Am I good enough? So thank you for your post. Makes me smile.
beautiful story .. (yours I mean), and can’t wait to get your book also! I have been hearing just those voices you speak of, and even tho I did commit to this 12×12, it is my only ‘support-group’ right now. It is so easy to get frustrated, by the drafts and re-drafts, and the wondering how many do I do, and should I just toss this story and start over? And to think, can I really do this? Am I good enough? So thank you for your post. Makes me smile.
I loved hearing your story to publication! Looking forward to reading your book. Thanks for the encouragement!
Thank you for the inspiration! Congratulations on your upcoming book.
Thank you for sharing your personal story and your book’s story.
Thank you for sharing your story, Dane! I especially appreciate that you shared that inner voice and how you’ve succeeded despite its whispers. I have that voice, too, and your story gives me courage to persevere.
Congrats on your beautiful book and for sharing your courage! Well done!
Thank you for sharing your journey – writing and life! Congrats on your book.
Dane, thank you for your post. Yes, say yes to all the opportunities. Yes, say yes, when your head is saying no. Yes, say yes, and you will get to you where you want to go.
Hi – thanks for the encouragement. I can deal better with rejection than regret, so this is the year I hope to put myself really IN the game. i’m going for GOLD! Congrats to you on your debut.
Congratulations on your Friends PB book! I look forward to reading it!
Loved the bell hooks quote. Now posted in my writing space. Thanks for your insights on persevering even when it’s tough.
Thank you for so authentically sharing your story!
Thank you, Dane. Your words are a great reminder of the importance of following our hearts instead of the voice in our heads. It’s nice to know published authors have similar experiences to mine! 🙂 Congratulations on your books.
Thank you Dane for this beautiful story, and for sharing the quote with us.
Thank you, Dane for sharing your journey. And thank you for helping me to remember why I write children’s books. I look forward to reading yours and I wish you continued success with your writing.
Loved this post– I’ve got a bell hooks book staring at me that I’ve been putting off reading, but you’ve reminded me to hop to it–she helps us face some big topics. As does your book, in its own way!
This was a beautifully written post, and I loved reading your story. Your book looks heartwarming, and I’m looking forward to reading it. I’ve been struggling with the time management aspect of deciding when to do what’s to learn what I need to know, to write quality books. You emphasized the key point though. Being a writer is about writing!
Thank you for this post, Dane. The moment when your child read your new book to your parents sounds incredibly emotional and powerful. What a blessing!
Thank you for sharing your journey and congratulations on FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS FOREVER. Love the end quote what writing is.
Thank you for sharing your journey and congratulations on FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS FOREVER. Love the end quote
Great article what can happen if you ignore that voice in your head! Can’t wait to read your book.
Thank you for sharing your words. The writing community has been such an influential and important part of my growth as a writer and I’m so happy to hear the positives you shared also. Happy writing in 2022! ☺️
Thank you so much for sharing your journey.
Thank you!
Thank you! I look forward to reading your book!
Thank you, Dane. I’m so happy you pushed pass that voice! I’m looking forward to reading your books.
Dane,
Like you, I am an immigrant who came to the United States without knowing English. I remember the loneliness. I can’t wait to read your book. My new Picture book, The Little House of Hope, comes out in May from Neal Porter/Holiday House. It is about a house of immigrants who open their home to other immigrants.
I hear what you’re saying. Wishing you all the success.
Congratulations, Dane! And thank you for sharing your journey, your doubts, your successes and your wisdom with us!
Thanks for an inspiring post, and congratulations on your debut book and upcoming books, Dane! They all sound wonderful.
Thank you for this post. So encouraging! Congrats on your success.
What a great post. The phrase that comes to my mind is “Silencio, Bruno!” from LUCA. Sometimes you need to silence the little voice that keeps you from acting!
Thank you for taking the time to write this post. It was inspiring! Also, a big congratulations on your new book and all of your success.
Dane, wow what a way to start off the year with feature author. Your post really spoke to me. I love bell hooks quote. And I truly agree that a writer needs a community. I’m so glad I committed to 12×12
Lovely post
So true- it comes down to action, attention, intention, and consistency. Congratulations on your debut book!
Thank you for this great post.
Dane, you are so inspiring! Thank you for sharing this…. I’m going to print out your quote and keep near me to read often. And congratulations on all of your books!
Thank you for sharing. It’s an awesome post. So inspiring.
Thank you so much, Dane. I loved the phrase “literary soulmates” Yes, we all need them.
Dane, thank you so much for sharing this inspiring message…and for ignoring that voice so the world can read your stories!!
This is a very inspirational post! Thanks so much!
I was lucky enough to see a sneak peek of this book, and it is wonderful! I’m thrilled for Dane! Congrats!
Excited to put this book on my shelf. Congrats!
Thank you for reminding me to say yes to MYSELF as often as I can!
I am looking forward to reading your book!
That little voice has been with me a lot lately, and I’ve listened to it way too much. I’m giving writing another go, just to say that I did. Thanks for your inspirational post.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful story, it really resonated with me.
“Writing is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.” Thank you! I look forward to sharing, Friends Are Friends Forever with children!
Dane,
Thank you for sharing. It’s a good reminder to choose the voices to listen to. Too often the negative ones overshadow the positive and productive ones.
Thank you for this inspiring post. Yes, I too have heard that little voice in my head. I am learning to stretch and grow out of my comfort zone. Thank you for inspiring me to keep stretching.
Thank you so much for writing this story. I feel like there needs to be more. I love this story and it is such a beautiful book.
Love this, so inspiring to read about your journey Dane 🙂 Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for such an uplifting post with the well-timed reminders about quieting the doubting voice and leaning into the many layers of writing. Congratulations on your book!
Congratulations. Friends Are Friends Forever is my new favorite book (as I thought I posted when your interview first went up – but I don’t see it) – I choke up – in a good way – every time I read it. Can’t wait for your next books.
What an inspiring post! I’m so glad I got to read this! I’ll be looking for your book.
Inspiring post! Thank you so much.
What a great post! This really resonated with me. We all have that little voice in our mind.
Thanks for the reminder to keep going even when the voices say no way!
Thank you for the inspiring post to start off the year. I’m saying “yes”!
Thank you Dane. I’ve made “consistency” my target for 2022.
Dane, thanks so much for this wonderful post. I love the encouragement to say “Yes” and the reminder that sometimes we need to say no in order to take care of ourselves.
Dana, what a wonderful post. Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I’m just beginning my journey now and feel encouraged by your words. Thank you.
Thank you for your encouragement. I plan to follow your advice!
How awesome that your six year old could read your debut book to your parents. How fortunate for all of you. I’m grateful for your courage to say yes and hope I will have the same courage.
Dane, this book, your advice to not listen to the Can’t voice inside, and to take consistent action, inspire me. Friends ARE friends forever; this book carries a forever feeling too. Best, Sheila, novice 12×12 member.
Thank you for the inspiration, Dane and the reminder that writers write and to override that pesky inner voice! During these last 2 years, my own kids have seen a lot of friends move away or switch schools. Staying friends forever sounds like a very appropriate and universal theme and your book sounds beautiful! I can’t wait to read it!
Thanks Dane for your inspiring post
You are an inspiration, Dane! Thank you. I’ve already requested your book from my library. 🙂
Dane, thank you for sharing such an inspirational post!
Thank you for sharing your encouraging words and story!
Congratulations on your debut picture book, Dane!
Thank you, Dane! Congrats on your picture book! I can’t wait to read it. Your words are inspiring and encouraging and very relatable. Thanks for reminding us to follow our heart and turn those negative thoughts down.
Thank you for sharing this! The first time I ignored that voice in my writing journey was in 2020 when I applied for the 2021 WNDB mentorship… and I got it!
Thank you for sharing your journey! Sometimes it is so hard to push past that voice- your post was inspiring.
This is so inspiring! Thank you so much for sharing.
Your book looks beautiful, Dane. Congratulations. Thanks you for the reminder to tune down the negative voices we carry. I agree with you 100% about the importance of literary soulmates.
I found this to be such a nice way to help get us all going for the 2022 challenge! Thank you very much for sharing your experiences with all of us (so relatable!), and CONGRATULATIONS on the publication of your book (sounds wonderful)!! 🙂
Thank you for your encouragement and inspiration!
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story.
Thank you for this inspiring post. Perfect to start 2022! Congratulations on your book. I’m looking forward to reading it.
Congrats on your debut book!
What an absolutely beautiful post! Thank you!
Way to kick off the new year of 12×12, Dane!
What a perfect thing for me to read right now — thank you!
And congrats on your book!!!