Karen Barrett

You may have read an author’s blog, or listened to a podcast, or attended a reading by a children’s author, and thought, “where do they get their inspiration from?”  Well, the most common reply I have heard is, “everywhere!”  ‘But where  exactly?’ the little person inside you shouts, exasperatedly.   Inspiration can be drawn from objects, people, places, history, personal experiences, or everyday life.  Certainly, be aware of external trends too, but do not be guided by them.

Your heart is racing with excitement as you prepare to embark on a journey like no other. You are scared, but you are overcome with an urge to nurture something precious into existence. Am I describing becoming a parent of a book, or a baby? Both!     Let’s look at the amusing parallels that tie these seemingly unrelated life journeys together.   You have followed your heart and decided to self-publish your first book, just as you might have decided to try for your first baby

Secrets are meant to be kept unknown, so why do I feel compelled to tell you my secret?  I have imposter syndrome.   Research suggests that as many as 70% of professionals have suffered imposter syndrome at some point in their career.  However, I think the true figure is higher because who wants to admit to excessive stress, a fear of failure, performance anxiety, or a lack of confidence?   When you next ask yourself, “Do I deserve my current ‘success’, do not listen to your