I would highly encourage everyone to add to the top of their nightstand reading list Brene Brown’s Daring Greatly.  This little book (almost) single-handedly emboldened me to believe that I could start this little project — my writing studio.  (There was also the case of the insanely supportive husband at work too!)  If you’re unsure if this book would even apply to you, it does — take this little nugget for instance:

Daring greatly is not about winning or losing.  It’s about courage.  In a world where scarcity and shame dominate and feeling afraid has become second nature, vulnerability is subversive.  Uncomfortable.  It’s even a little dangerous at times.  And, without question, putting ourselves out there means there’s a far greater risk of feeling hurt.  But as I look back on my own life and what Daring Greatly has meant to me, I can honestly say that nothing is as uncomfortable, dangerous, and hurtful as believing that I am standing on the outside of my life looking in and wondering what it would be like if I had the courage to show up and let myself be seen.   ~ Brene Brown, Daring Greatly

It’s been so difficult to even attempt to “let myself be seen” — but I believe in what I’m doing and believe in the method that I facilitate.  I believe that I can live an authentic life and encourage others to do so by writing in their original, unique voice.  So, here I am, showing up — daring greatly.