Writing Coach Makes It Possible

“I’m writing a book!” I announced to my parents as we watched sunset from our jungle rooftop in spring 2015.

“Wonderful!” they raised their glasses enthusiastically. “What happens first?”

“Well, I’ve got an idea, and an outline, I guess I should just start writing?” I responded.

“You should get in touch with our friend Herta,” suggested my father. “She’s an author, editor and writing coach who could look at your writing and give you some feedback.”

Hmmm, I thought to myself. Was I ready for someone to look at my writing? Was I ready for honest feedback and criticism? Was my writing worth reading?

I ignored any self doubt and chatted with Herta on the phone the following week. She ended up working with me for several years. Herta’s support on my journey as an author has been truly invaluable—she made it all possible, mil gracias Herta!

If you’re considering writing a book and are serious about making progress, a writing coach will make it happen. Think accountability, edits and guidance wherever you need it. Find someone you have good chemistry with. My writing coach and I reviewed my outline, chatted about my vision for the book. The simple act of paying her made me take my writing much more seriously. I sent her my chapters/progress monthly, she reviewed/edited, then we scheduled a phone session. I couldn’t have accomplished all that I did without her support. You can check out my awesome writing coach, Herta Feely at www.chrysaliseditorial.com

Herta is also a Wildpreneur who is featured in my book. Check out her free-spirited inspiration here:

Describe your perfect day of work and play. What do you love about being a Wildpreneur?

My perfect day of work includes getting some of my own writing done, working on someone else’s manuscript, and then meeting a friend for a drink or dinner, or having a quiet or fun evening with my husband. Sometimes sitting outside on our deck, in the shelter of tall oak trees, sipping a glass of wine is the sublime ending to a productive day!

When did you become a writer? Was it a dream you pursued, or did it happen organically?

I feel as though I’ve always been writing. As a child I used to write plays, rally the neighborhood kids to put it on (and sell tickets), and then I wrote short stories in 6th grade and on. I received a graduate degree in journalism (at age 31) and then a master of arts in writing (age 50)…and then became a published author in 2016 (Saving Phoebe Murrow)! So I’ve been around for a while, living and experiencing life so that I could write about it. (I once had my “chart” read by an astrologer, who told me that I’d been a playwright in England in my last life. I have a very strong affinity for England and found a wonderful publisher there for my novel Saving Phoebe Murrow.)

What was your inspiration to create Chrysalis Editorial? Describe your transition from idea to creation of your business.

I briefly worked for a literary agent reading manuscripts that came in over the transom, in other words, unsolicited. I found a couple of manuscripts I felt were worthy of publication. I ended up helping that author perfect her work and the agent then sold the story to a publisher. I realized that I was a good critic and editor and decided that I would hang out my shingle to help writers write. And that was the genesis of Chrysalis Editorial, a company through which I’ve helped hundreds of writers.

Is this work your passion?

This work plus my own writing.

What do you wish you’d known prior to getting started as a wild entrepreneur?

How to be a better manager. I usually have an assistant, but I’m terrible at being organized in terms of what needs doing next. And pretty bad at prioritizing. But in the end, and to my great surprise, everything always gets done.

Where do you find inspiration? How do you keep yourself motivated?

Inspiration strikes at odd times. Often in the middle of the night or while not thinking. I read a lot so I get inspiration that way too. I keep an idea file on my computer which helps me when I feel uninspired. But generally there are more ideas than I’ll ever be able to follow through on in one lifetime.

BONUS: Herta’s Tips - 5 secrets to Marriage as a Wildpreneur

Herta recently celebrated 30 years of marriage (congratulations!). She’s not only an awesome editor/writing coach, she’s also an inspiring wife and mother. I featured Herta’s wisdom in Wildpreneurs chapter 9: Where’s Tarzan, Dating & Relationships. I asked Herta: how have you balanced your commitment to your writing and your relationship? Any tips for young wild entrepreneurs who are considering the adventure of marriage? Big picture advice or daily practices that keep you loving each other?

Here’s the advice she offered:

1. Find a partner who is as independent as you are. (While I spend many a weekend writing, my husband goes golfing and plays tennis. These are very compatible activities as long we don’t expect each other to do the same thing!!) I guess what I’m saying is that it’s important to find someone who is the perfect complement to you.

2. Do the unexpected. Sometimes I’ll send my guy an email love note, and on occasion he sends me flowers for no reason.

3. Remember to be romantic on occasion. Find out what your partner considers romantic…this differs between men and women.

4. It never hurts to do a little online research to better understand your partner. Someone recently told me a website that helps you know what type of person he/she is. You know, are they tactile (preferring to touch a lot over talk a lot)? Or do they like to hear that you love them? Do they want you to fix them a delicious meal (best way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but not all men feel that way!) Etcetera!

5. Be flexible. That’s key to everything, I think.