There are certain moments in life where you realize you’ve been downplaying your wins. Friday was one of those moments for me.
My new book, Fingerprints, officially launched on Amazon. It’ll be available on Barnes & Noble Press soon, too. And while I’ve been low-key about it, the truth is: self-publishing anything is an accomplishment. Big or small. Novel or not. Most people will never do it in their lifetime — but I did…twice.
Here’s the thing though: I didn’t write this book for clout or even money. These were thoughts, lessons, and stories I felt God put on my heart to share. My job was to be obedient. And obedience doesn’t always come with a crowd clapping for you.
I posted a few promos over the weekend — something I don’t usually do out of fear. The “who do you think you are?” voice is loud sometimes. Imposter syndrome for me has never been about doubting my ability. I know I can create. I know I can execute. It’s the who’s actually going to care part that gets me.
But here’s the pattern I’ve noticed in my life: when I’m unsure whether people will believe in me, I create the opportunity myself. Show and tell. Show and prove. Over and over again, I’ve built my own proof of concept — not always for profit, but to fulfill the desire, exercise the gift, and document the work.
And in a time where job security is unstable, the economy is shaky, and creative work feels like an uphill climb… this perseverance matters. It’s not about always having the money or the audience. Sometimes, it’s about refusing to let external instability silence what’s inside of you.
This isn’t a fully formed “lesson,” but it’s a truth I keep bumping into:
I [you] don’t need to wait to be chosen.I [you] can build it, prove it, and release it anyway.
If it reaches one person — that’s a blessing.If it reaches none, it still reached me [you].
All Is Well— Ashlee Nicole