I'm not sure if I've yet experienced life imitating art, but I've definately noticed, looking back, that every single creative thing I've done is filled with me, no matter how hard I try to separate church and sta-- I mean art and opinion.
My Saeryn at The White Horse is me. What happens to her tends to reflect what's up with me, so when she went from being happy, adventurous, and ready for the world to forgetful, nervous, and psyched out... I was beyond busy and feeling that way myself. Degas, her brother, is a friend of mine. Inzillomi is who I want to be when I grow up: accomplished, respected, creative, kind, and subtle. Tasa is me when I'm having issues.
I know that this is a subconscious thing, so do you suppose it could work both ways? What you create is a part of you, so it wouldn't be too far of a stretch for it to "encourage" inklings you've already had.
And, of course, I could not very well finish this post without hearty congratulations and luck wishes for you, mark.