Three Guidelines for Sharing Your Story
 

One of the most poignant life lessons I’ve learned is that we don’t achieve anything alone. In writing, community comes in the form of sharing your work in progress, inviting evaluation or critique, which might sound daunting, but for me it’s the part of the writing process I value the most.
 

When I first shared early drafts of Never Make A Sound in a writing workshop, I had no idea what to expect. Would my fellow writers connect with my story and my unconstrained, free-flowing style?
 

I confess that I was dumbfounded by their positive responses. I’ll never forget how particularly validating it was to hear one participant use the word “anguish” to describe what she felt in the narrative. For me, it was like fuel. Their heartfelt reactions encouraged me to trust my voice and continue writing in a way that resonated. That piece eventually became the first section of Never Make A Sound.

 

To commemorate the three-year anniversary of my book’s release, I want to share three essential guidelines I discovered during this process that can serve as valuable insights for anyone on their own writing journey:

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1. Trust and Cultivate Your Authentic Voice: Trusting your instincts rather than following what you believe are traditional rules of writing or of a particular genre can be an effective way to find your voice. If you’ve kept journals or records, dig through them and you might discover the seeds of a singular voice. Authenticity not only creates a profound connection with readers but also helps you develop a distinctive style, while vulnerability has the power to provoke engagement.

2. Embrace the Imperfections of Memory: Memories often come back to us in flashes, in moments of recognition, and reflecting this in your writing can add depth and realism to your narrative. The style of Never Make A Sound was informed by the way memories resurface, sometimes in disjointed pieces. My dialogue with the writers in the workshop showed me how embracing this style allowed readers to bear witness to my story in a visceral and impactful way.

3. Seek Constructive Feedback: Sharing your work in a supportive environment provides invaluable insights, as well as validation. Over the years, I have used constructive criticism, whether positive or negative, to help me grow as a writer. The responses I received on my first drafts was a sign to keep developing my style and trusting my instincts. Early drafts, with their raw honesty and emotion, often contain the essence of what makes your story compelling. Build upon your first instincts, knowing that early feedback can guide you towards refining and perfecting your final manuscript or product.

 

These guidelines helped me navigate the emotional and creative process of writing and sharing my memoir, and I hope they can provide a meaningful framework for your own writing journey.