In this episode of Penny for Your Shots, I had the pleasure of speaking with Niamh McAnally, an accomplished author, traveler, and storyteller whose life is a testament to saying "yes" to opportunities and living with intention. Her new book, Following Sunshine, takes readers on a journey of personal growth, exploration, and self-discovery, and offers lessons for anyone seeking to embrace life’s adventures.

The Journey Begins: Lessons from Freelance Living

Growing up in Dublin with parents who were actors, Niamh was surrounded by a lifestyle that emphasized adaptability and resilience.

"My parents taught me the value of variety and being open to change, which shaped my approach to life," Niamh shared.

This upbringing set the stage for her multifaceted career, which has spanned several industries and taken her around the globe.

Saying Yes to Opportunities

A recurring theme in Niamh’s life and book is the power of saying yes. She believes in the importance of remaining open to possibilities, even when they deviate from the original plan.

"If you’re rigid in your path, you might miss out on something amazing. Flexibility is the key to growth and joy," Niamh said.

Whether it was traveling to Paris at 17 to study at the Sorbonne or making a last-minute decision to explore Bora Bora, her openness has led to unforgettable experiences.

Following Sunshine: A Voyage of the Heart and Mind

Niamh’s book, Following Sunshine, encapsulates her journey of chasing light, both metaphorically and literally. From childhood memories of her first overseas holiday in Spain to living on a boat in the Bahamas, the book reflects her philosophy of embracing the present moment.

"Wherever I am at the time is my favorite place because I choose to live in the now," she explained.

Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt

Niamh also spoke candidly about overcoming fear and self-doubt, common hurdles for many.

"Fear of the unknown can hold us back, but if you take even small steps forward, you’ll often find the rewards are greater than you imagined," she advised.

She shared personal anecdotes, including a transformative skydive in Texas, where she focused on staying present in each moment to overcome her anxiety.

Manifesting Dreams with Action

A strong believer in the power of manifestation, Niamh emphasized the need to pair visualization with action.

"Dream boards and visualization are great, but you also need to take the steps to make those dreams happen," she said.

Her story of finally visiting Bora Bora after years of longing serves as a poignant reminder to stop postponing dreams and take initiative.

The Joy of Connection and Storytelling

For Niamh, writing is more than recounting her travels; it’s about bringing readers along for the journey.

"I write not to showcase where I’ve been, but to let others feel as if they’ve been there too," she said.

She also revealed plans to share a gallery of photos from her book on her website, TheWriterOnTheWater.com, allowing readers to connect more deeply with her stories.

Closing Thoughts: Take the Leap

Niamh’s message is clear: life is meant to be lived fully. Whether it’s a dream trip, a new career, or simply taking a small step outside your comfort zone, her advice is to say yes and trust the journey.

Order Following Sunshine today to join Niamh on her incredible adventures and gain inspiration for your own.

For more stories, insights, and updates, visit TheWriterOnTheWater.com.