Successful Sistas is an interview series featuring successful women pursuing their dream careers.
Title: Author, Freelance Writer, Minister, Certified Life Coach, visionary behind “Write Now” literary workshops
How did you become interested in inspirational speaking and writing?
I believe it was a decision that God made for me. Actually, becoming an author was far from what I anticipated for my life. It was through my personal experiences in life which drew me into this profession. It was through my writing [that] I found it to be a source of therapy. While writing my first book, “That Was Then, This Is Now,” I begin to see how God healed and restored my life, and what He did for me, I felt I needed to share with others. It was at that moment that I realized God wanted my writing to be used as a ministry. My desire is to write books that will empower, equip and transform the lives of every reader. The same is true for speaking as well.
Why did you decide to pursue this career?
Accepting both speaking and writing as my vocation has been something I thoroughly enjoy. When I see or hear that someone’s life has been impacted by my speaking or writing, it is a constant reminder that I’m doing exactly what God has called me to do.
What do you love most about what you do?
One of the things I love most about what I do is the interaction I have with people. I care for and love people. My desire when I speak as well as the books I write are inspired by God, therefore, what I share is meant to empower and motivate the hearers and readers.
What is the most stressful aspect of your job?
I wouldn’t call my jobs stressful, but I would say that in the area of writing, there are times when I get distracted and pulled in so many directions. As a writer, staying focused on my project and deadlines has to be a priority.
When it comes to speaking, I must rely on God to give me what the audience needs. I spend time in prayer, seeking God’s direction as to what people need that will help them deal with the challenges of life.
What’s a typical day like for you?
Currently, I work in Corporate America. So usually after work, I come home and write. I spend plenty of time on the computer searching for ways to market and promote my books. On the days when I’m not doing book signings or preachings, I enjoy the movies and walks in the park.
What advice or tips would you give to someone who wants to do what you do?
I would highly recommend to those who are aspiring to become authors to be patient with the process of becoming well-known. Connecting with your audience and branding yourself will take time. Especially for new writers, the market is flooded with books for readers to choose from so by keeping this in mind, you must be able to patiently wait [for] your time to shine.
Finish this sentence: This career is for you if___
You have a passion to touch the lives of people from all walks of life. Either by speaking or writing, both careers require a person to have a heart for people. In the area of writing, if you believe you can write something of quality that is entertaining and will keep the readers coming back, then by all means, write. When it comes to speaking, you must not only believe you have something to share, but you must be able to articulate the message to those who will listen.
