Introducing Yvonne Tomlinson… Yvonne Tomlinson is an award-winning trainer, business executive, author, and a loving mum and grandma.

In August 2024, she released her book Memory Boxes, a deeply personal, honest account of her experiences with forced adoption and forgiveness.

In this month’s Brilliant Byte, Yvonne shares how the writing process helped to heal her.

A Personal Journey: The Healing Process Through Writing

My journey with writing has been a rollercoaster of emotions, a turbulent ride through the depths of my soul. Each time I put pen to paper, I was transported back to some of the most painful moments of my life: the day my baby was taken from me, the tragic loss of my brother, the scars of childhood bullying, and the challenges of building a career. These experiences, coupled with the complexities of menopause, weighed heavily on my heart.

A story was brewing within me, yearning to be told. I hadn’t anticipated sharing my reflections with the world, but in doing so, I uncovered the essence of who I am today. The writing process of my book, Memory Boxes, spanned two long years, not due to a lack of words, but because of the overwhelming emotions that surfaced as I delved into my past. Each word was an emotional trigger, unlocking tears and memories I had unknowingly suppressed.

I’ve always been a master of disguise, someone who can mask pain and turmoil beneath a composed exterior. However, through writing, I confronted these emotions head-on.

Today, the sadness that once consumed me no longer manifests in tears. Instead, I’ve embraced the happiness that surrounds me. Authoring my story helped me realise that while I can’t change the past, I can, and will, make the most of the present. We all have choices to make, and I choose to prioritise my mental health and well-being by transforming aspects of my life that no longer bring me joy.

If you’re considering writing as a means of healing, I encourage you to take the leap. It may not offer immediate relief, but it can become a powerful tool in your journey of self-discovery. Embrace the process, allow the emotions to flow, and you may just find the happiness that lies beyond the pain.