Growing up, I didn’t see myself as a creative, much less a writer. I associated creativity with the visual arts- painting, photography, sculpture, film. I was in awe of the kids with raw, natural talents and traditional artistic inclinations.

Writing for me was an outlet, a way to express what was happening in my stormy inner world. I journaled, jotting down bits and pieces of my life and adventures. It was also a way to create imaginary worlds and lands where my characters lived out their unrestrained dreams. I was lucky I had an incredible English teacher who believed in me and my writing. She encouraged me to play with words and ideas and to keep going, to keep creating, no matter what.

My writing journey has not been without challenges and bouts of severe self doubt. But through inspiration exercises, conscious discipline and a dogged determination to overcome my fears and realize my dream of writing a children’s book, I have been able to reconnect with my writing practice and allow it to guide and inspire me.

I am excited to continue creating more books and to share my learnings with up and coming creatives, motivating them to connect to their passions and realize their dreams.