I always wanted to be a writer. But for years, my focus was on nonfiction: writing for newspapers and magazines and eventually a nonfiction book. And I was happy with that dream.

And then a season of burnout became a bend in the writing road. I wrote a “just for fun” novel. And despite telling my husband that no one would ever see the manuscript, I eventually showed it to my agent. And after she read it, she announced, “Let’s set aside this nonfiction book we’re shopping around and see if we can establish you as a novelist.”

And — as crazy as it seemed — I said yes.

And that yes began so much new in my life.

Here I am, six years later, and I’m a novelist. By this summer, I will have published five novels and four e-novellas thanks to a one syllable word — yes — and an unexpected bend in the writing road.

•  Because of that initial yes I understand myself better. That’s what happens when you’re developing imaginary characters’ Wounds, Lies and Fears. You tend to consider your own and, if you allow God to work through your writing to heal your broken places, you grow stronger. More honest. And that honesty weaves itself into your writing.
• Because of that initial yes I’ve grown closer to God. This writing gig — and the to-be-expected reviews and up and down sales and the daily demands of deadlines — will mess with your mind and heart if you don’t anchor yourself to the Truth. Who He says I am has become my trustworthy True North.
• Because of that initial yes I know “living the dream” means doing the work.” Knowing I’m living my writing dream is both a humbling, satisfying thought — and a huge reality check. Living the dream means you’ve signed a contract (or two or three or more), which means you’ve said yes to all the work that entails. Edits. Copy edits. Line edits. Back cover copy. Whatever it takes. Early on, someone asked me, “Are you going to be on Oprah?” I laughed and said, “If she asks me.” So far, I haven’t been invited, but I’m still willing — and I still am thankful I’m living my version of the writing dream, without a conversation with Oprah.

Oh …  since that initial yes, I’ve also learned there’s one question I’ll always say no to. It’s this one: Are you going to quit?”

How about you? How has saying “yes” to the writing life created growth in your life?