How I’m learning to use creative tools to bring stories like Far from Oz to life.

When I first started writing, I relied on simple editing tools to help shape my work. Programs like ProWritingAid and Hemingway Editor became part of my routine. In the beginning, I used the free versions, learning what I could from the suggestions they offered. After a few years, I decided to try a paid version, hoping it might help me take the next step forward in refining my writing.

I’ve also mentioned before how much I rely on Canva. In many ways, it has been a lifesaver. It gave me the ability to design covers and experiment with visuals for my books. But even with these tools, I often felt like I was only scratching the surface. They helped, but they never quite gave me everything I needed to truly move forward with the ideas I had in my head.

That’s when my sister-in-law—well, former sister-in-law—encouraged me to try something new. She has always been the type of person who jumps aboard when new ideas or tools appear, and to this day, I admire that about her. She suggested I give ChatGPT a try.

I’ll admit, I was hesitant at first. Like many writers, I worried about what it meant to use a tool like that. But after asking a few simple questions, I decided to experiment with editing Far from Oz. What surprised me most was that it didn’t take away my voice. My tone was still there. My words were still mine. What it helped with were the hurdles—the moments where I felt stuck or uncertain about how to move forward.

I quickly discovered that it was incredibly helpful for brainstorming and getting the creative wheels turning again. With that help, I was able to polish Far from Oz in ways I had struggled to do on my own.

Not long after finishing those edits, I completed my next story, Falling from Neverland. Around that same time, I found another free editing tool that perfectly fit my needs, and I remember feeling incredibly excited. It felt like I was finally finding the right pieces to support the writing process.

But I soon realized something important: that was only the beginning.

For a long time, I had only used Canva to create book covers. Then I started challenging myself to do more. First, I experimented with designing notebooks. After that, I began experimenting with creating short videos and promotional trailers. Each small step pushed me a little further outside my comfort zone.

I’m proud of the things I’ve created so far, but I would be lying if I said it wasn’t difficult sometimes. It’s hard not to compare your work to people who seem to have a deeper understanding of these tools. I watch tutorials and videos to learn, but sometimes my brain just works differently. There are moments when I sit in front of the screen staring at it, unsure of where to begin or why something that seems simple feels so complicated.

Still, I know I’ll get there.

For now, I’m focusing on what feels manageable. I remind myself that learning takes time and that the knowledge will come as I continue experimenting. My next small step is learning to stop overthinking and simply try things out.

That’s part of the reason I’ve begun adding voice-overs to my most recent promo videos. They may not always match the exact vision I had in my head, but I’m proud of the end results. Each one represents progress, even if it’s imperfect.

And who knows—maybe these simple little creations will lead to doors opening in ways I never expected.