How My Mom Accidentally Got Me Writing Advice From a Bestseller

Four years ago, just as I was beginning to take writing seriously, one of my favorite childhood authors visited my hometown for a book signing. I remember standing in a long line of children at Barnes & Noble, waiting for my chance to show my support. My plan was simple: walk in, tell him I loved his books and that they inspired me, get a signature, and walk out.

That plan almost worked—until I brought my incredibly proud mother with me. She was a fan of Mull’s too, but the real reason she came was to keep me company in line. If there’s one thing you should know about my mom, it’s that she’s exceptionally skilled at embarrassing her children. I don’t say that with resentment—in fact, I owe much of who I am to those moments of embarrassment.

Growing up, my siblings and I could hardly do anything remotely impressive without my mom becoming overjoyed and wanting to share it with the world. In other words, she’s a deeply invested parent—passionate about her children’s development and success. Even if, as on the day I met a favorite author of mine for the first time, she’s capable of cranking the embarrassment dial up to twelve and a half.

When my mom and I finally reached the front of the line, I handed my book over. Mull said something kind, I told him how much his books meant to me, and I was ready to step aside. My mom, however, was just warming up.

“My son’s writing a book too! He’s a really good writer!”

(I can’t guarantee those were her exact words, but you get the idea.)

If that didn’t turn my face bright pink, nothing would. There I was—a brand-new writer—sitting in front of a man who had been a major inspiration in my journey, while my mom… lied to him.

Or at least, that’s what I thought—and if I’m being honest, sometimes I still think so. In that instant, I was mortified. I was twenty-four years old! I could manage my own conversations. The embarrassment bubbled inside me, and I couldn’t believe I’d let myself get dragged into this situation.

But my humiliation didn’t last long. Mull congratulated me on my decision to write, then offered this piece of advice:

“Remember that you’ll never be good enough. Always keep that in mind. Even after all the books I’ve written, I still feel that way sometimes. Being an author isn’t about being good enough—it’s about learning, growing, and developing.”

That little nugget of wisdom made every blush and awkward moment worth it. Looking back, I still shake my head at how eager my mom was to tell a New York Times bestselling author that her son writes too—as if to say, He’s just like you! And yet, I’m grateful. That’s why I said earlier that I owe much of who I am to the embarrassment my mom served up like it was an all-you-can-eat buffet.

It taught me that it’s okay not to be “good enough” yet. What matters is putting yourself out there, experimenting, and growing—even when it makes you feel silly or foolish.

I’m not a New York Times bestselling author (yet), but remembering Mull’s words reminds me I don’t have to be. After all, if he still feels like he’s learning, I should too—and I hope that never changes.

If you enjoyed this little peek into my writing journey, I’d love to share more with you. Twice a month—on the 1st and the 15th—I send out my author newsletter. On the 1st, you’ll get updates on my books and projects, and on the 15th, I share behind-the-scenes insights, lessons I’ve learned, and stories from the writing life. You can sign up below to join me on the adventure.