From Framework to Full Heart: My Writing Breakthrough

Oct 14
2 min read

By Chandra Lynn

When I first began writing Root-to-Rise: How to Love Life, my plan was to create a prescriptive self-help guidebook based on my coach training. I wanted it to be a clear, practical framework people could follow to build balance, resilience, and purpose in their lives. My focus was on delivering tools and strategies, not telling my own story.

Then my best friend died by suicide.

It was the kind of loss that breaks you open. For a while, I couldn’t write at all. When I finally returned to my manuscript, I knew I couldn’t just present concepts and frameworks. I had to be real. Vulnerable. Human. I had to share my own struggles and healing process so the book would be relatable and compelling, not just instructive.

That was my breakthrough moment. I stopped writing from a distance and started writing from the heart. I wove my personal experiences, setbacks, and lessons learned into the framework I’d already developed. The book became not just a guide, but a conversation—one that acknowledged how hard life can be, while offering hope and practical ways forward.

In the process, Root-to-Rise transformed into something far more meaningful: a legacy project dedicated to my son, and a mission to help people love life, even when it’s not easy. It became my way of honoring my friend’s memory, while also reaching out to anyone feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or in pain.

From that point forward, my writing flowed with purpose. I wasn’t just sharing advice; I was sharing myself. And that openness created a deeper connection to the people I most wanted to help.

If I could offer one insight to fellow authors, it’s this: Don’t be afraid to let your readers see the real you. It’s your humanity, not just your expertise, that makes your work resonate. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can give your audience is not just the roadmap, but the story of how you’ve walked the path yourself.

Connect With Chandra

Root-to-Rise: How to Love Life Book

Etsy: 25% off autographed copy with bookmark at glowliving.etsy.com

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F3JMBKJL (Free for Kindle Unlimited members)

Instagram: @glowliving | @glowchandra