I was raised in a family of educators where reading wasn’t just encouraged; it was a way of life. As I escaped to other worlds through literature or deepened my understanding of the arts and sciences through non-fiction, I was unknowingly shaping the mind of a writer. Absorbing stories, ideas, and knowledge from a young age made writing feel like a natural extension of thought: a way to process, create, and explore.
The more I read, the more I felt compelled to put my own words on the page. This took on deeper significance when I faced unexpected challenges in college. After suffering sports-related injuries that resulted in brain damage and aphasia, my ability to communicate through speech was impaired. Even now, fifteen years later, I still struggle with finding the right words, at times speaking in fragments. Writing, however, has become my clearest voice.
While spoken language became a hurdle, my ability to write only strengthened. Writing became my constant, a space where my thoughts could flow freely, unhindered by barriers. It allowed me to fully articulate ideas, emotions, and reflections—something speech often failed to do. Over time, I came to rely on the written word not just as a tool, but as a vital part of my identity.
A distinctive voice is what makes writing memorable, setting the words apart in a way that resonates with the reader. I think of this voice as a rhetorical fingerprint. Even across genres, writers have a distinctive style: the rhythm of your sentences, the way you choose and arrange words, and the perspective that colors your storytelling. A strong voice draws readers in, making them feel like they’re not just reading words but experiencing something alive. A compelling voice isn’t forced; it’s refined over time. The more you write, the more you’ll recognize and strengthen what makes your writing uniquely yours.
One of the best things you can do as a writer is build a strong support system. Writing might seem like a solitary act, but no book is created in isolation. Whether it’s family, friends, a mentor, or a partner, having people who encourage you, remind you why you started, and help you push through the hard days can make all the difference.
The inception of my first book was part of my doctoral thesis, and for me, that person was my then partner. While I was buried in research and draft after draft, Jack was my anchor. He believed in me even when I struggled to believe in myself. His patience, humor, and endless enthusiasm kept me going. He stood by me through long nights and countless revisions. His creativity as a visual artist shaped my own in ways I never imagined.
So to aspiring writers: Find your Jack, someone who lifts you up, supports you, and reminds you that your words matter. Keep writing, lean on those who care about you, and don’t give up.
