More About Writing

I used to be so insecure about letting people read my writing. I felt like my writing was allowing people too deeply into my thoughts and pretty much my soul. I think that being in Drama has affected that insecurity, so that I'm not afraid to share my writing with the world. Now I love letting people read my writing. I've started to carry around a copy of my currently-being-worked-on-novel, and letting anyone who wants to read it, read it. I've gotten a lot of comments, a lot of helpful criticism, and A LOT of praise. I'm (for the most part) not showing it around to get praised, I really like comments, but praise is always nice.
I think one of the major reasons I've gotten so deeply into my writing again is because my friend Audrey recently one an essay contest and actually got paid for doing it. I'll admit I'm a little jealous, but mainly inspired. If someone my age can earn money for writing, why can't I? It is true that she's a very good writer, but I like to think that I'm not pathetic at writing.
My goal is to finish the rough draft of my novel if not by the end of this school year, by the beginning of next school year. My Junior Year does need at least that accomplishment, the completion of my first ever novel.