Self-Publishing: What Happens When You Follow the Thing That Calls You

Open Journals from a First-Time Author

It feels a little surreal to say this… but The Book of Mittens is almost ready for print. The manuscript is fully edited, the interior design is in progress, and once that’s done…

…IT’S GOING TO PRESS!!!!

I’m so excited. And honestly, a little surprised. I can’t believe it’s this close.

There was one day recently where I felt this strange urgency to rush through the interior layout and get ahead of schedule. I opened the file, started working, and immediately felt anxious. I stopped. I realized I didn’t want that kind of energy going into the book. So I closed it and came back the next day with a clearer head.

That moment reminded me that I’m not behind. I’m actually ahead of schedule. There’s no pressure or deadline chasing me. That in itself is kind of wild.

This book has taught me so much. One thing I know now is that when you’re doing what you’re truly called to do, things flow. Not in a “you won’t have to work” kind of way, but in an easeful way. There’s clarity. There’s rhythm. There’s joy. And I trust that.

Working with my editor has also been an incredible experience. I was a little nervous at first because they’re someone I respect deeply, with a background in writing and communications. Part of me wondered if this would be the moment I got humbled. Like, “I know I love this book… but will they?”

And they did! They told me they loved it. That it was great. That it captured my essence and energy perfectly. I needed to hear that. Not for validation, but because I knew they’d tell me the truth.

The hardest part of this whole process was finding my voice as a writer. Creating the chapter outlines took time, and I wrestled with structure early on. But now that it’s all shaped and clear, the rest has felt… seamless.

I know marketing will be the next phase of learning and growth, and I’m open to that. For now, I’m just enjoying where I am.

I’ve also noticed how much more present I’ve become since writing this book, especially with my cat. If he comes up to me while I’m working, I stop. I sit with him. I hold him. The book itself is based on what I’ve learned about cat behaviour and spirituality—now I’m actually living it. The pausing. The resting. The adapting. The joy.

As I think about the launch, I picture cozy blankets, warm tea, gentle conversation, and a cat curled up close. That’s the feeling I want to create. I’ve been brainstorming a launch party, though I don’t know what it will look like yet. And I’m not putting pressure on the outcome.

Just getting this book out into the world feels like a massive accomplishment. I’ll be proud no matter what.

Thanks for being here. Truly. More soon.

Laila xo

I’ve shared a sneak peek at one of the interior pages—including the actual writing—for my paid subscribers. If you’d like an early look inside the book, you can subscribe below.