Author-Anniversary ~ Wow by CHAR

Author-Anniversary

It’s been one year since publishing my book, and here’s what I’ve learned

By Chardonnay Beaver – chardonnaybeaver.com

Summer 2025 marks one year since self-publishing my first book Words of Wisdom: A Compilation of Life Principles, Inspired by Truth & Guided by Purpose Vol. 1. July in particular marks 5 years since starting this column. Wow, how time flies!

My appreciation and gratitude to all who’ve supported my journey of authorship is limitless. Whether you’ve been reading my column since 2020, following my Instagram & TikTok (@wowbychar) or purchased a copy of my book – thank you. 

Something you wouldn’t know about my journey to authorship: I wrote an entire book without telling a single friend or family member—and here’s why. From the beginning, I sensed that creating my first book needed to be a sacred process, one free from outside opinions or influence. Choosing this path deepened my discernment. So often we look for agreement from others, but the truth is: you don’t need agreement to walk in greatness.

Something my book taught me: During the editing process, I found myself second-guessing. Is this enough? Is it too much? God reminded me: those who are meant to get it, will get it. Those who won’t, won’t—and that’s okay. “Get” wasn’t about who would buy the book, but who would truly receive the message behind the words.

Something I’d do differently in Volume 2: Much of what readers saw in Volume 1 were reflections written years ago, with a few newer additions. If I were to do it again, the content—and even the phrasing—would be different. Volume 1 taught me this: the more honest you are with yourself, the more useful you become to others. That truth will shape Volume 2.

Words of Wisdom by Char of The Week: Thank you for supporting my journey into authorship and beyond. You can pick-up a copy of my book & journal in-person at The Facts Newspaper or online at chardonnaybeaver.com