Toni Morrison said that the book you want to read, you might just have to write.

It is with that motivation in mind, I tell you this: The fear of writing a book is normal.

I say it again: THE FEAR OF WRITING A BOOK IS NORMAL.

It is scary to put your thoughts in a place where not just you will be able to read them. It is completely valid to think you can’t, you won’t, you shouldn’t and you should abandon all thought of it! Let this month, be the hug you need to reassure–as well as the nudge forward to begin.

It’s always the scariest part right before you begin! That will never change–you just learn how to manage it!

So where are three things I want you to keep in mind which will minimize your anxiety, which will only fuel your apprehension:

1.) Recognize the fear is normal. You’re creating a new thing! That is nerve-racking! But it is normal.

2.) Realize that no book or story is written overnight. You do have time.

3.) Remember that you are in control of the story. How fast or how slow–you are the one that is flying the plane.

Take a deep breath, and start.