We recently connected with Ashley Smith and have shared our conversation below.

Ashley, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What was the most important lesson/experience you had in a job that has helped you in your professional career?

Prior to starting my book coaching business I worked a wide range of jobs. I even started a few businesses. In the past, I learned how to sell various products on commission such as shoes, body smell goods and kitchen knives, and door-to-door jobs. These experiences taught me how to step outside of myself to develop a script to sale as well as how to market myself. I understand the importance of presentation. These essential components of business carried over into a lot of my personal projects. These skills prepared me for everything required to manage my business today. I’m in the process of starting another book coaching business. This experience is different from the first, because I’ve learned from past mistakes. For example, don’t let customers take advantage of your free services and giveaways. That enables the business to turn back into a hobby or volunteer work. Now I have more confidence in my trade and attracting clients based on the skills I’ve acquired. As an author of seven books I’m ready to assist new authors on how they can write their books and get them self-published. I’m excited about coaching writers. Everybody has a story, a dream, and publishing is a great way to leave our imprint. This has been a passion of mine ever since I published my first book in 2014. I no longer facilitate free writing workshops or give free consultations, I’ve learned from my past setbacks. With these lessons I aim to focus wholeheartedly on sharing my knowledge in hopes of leaving my 9 to 5 one day.

Ashley, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

In 2014, I self-published my first book, What’s on My Mind? Volume I. I sold 500 copies to a non-profit peer-led organization, the Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network, for their annual conference attendees to receive a free copy. In Her Own Ink, is where I provide book coaching services and direction on self-publishing. With emphasis on nonfiction works; mental health, blog books, daily devotionals and more. I believe we all have a book in us waiting to be born. I understand the fears, challenges and fight to writing that first book. If you’re stuck and don’t know where to begin, I can assist you. If you have the perfect book idea but don’t know how to release it onto paper, I can help. I have a wide range of practical methods to guide you. Through In Her Own Ink I aim to instill proven-strategies to overcome writer’s block and to get unstuck. When I was working on my first book I was intimidated by the magnitude of the project. However, I too, had a book coach. She had me repeat the declaration: “this is your first book, it’s not your best book, and it’s not your last.” Therefore, I understand first-hand the fears as an author. Now that I’m a book coach with seven published works, I focus on guiding persons on their creative process of developing their first books. I’m passionate about creating and believe I can help you do it better. Book coaching is about offering direction, holding you accountable and getting positive results. At In Her Own Ink I focus on building a solid foundation. Being organized and holding your vision is essential to excelling, and birthing your baby – that book. Allow me to guide you on how to write at book. Let’s get started on your book project today.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

With every book I published there were challenges. Yet, I overcame them through self-motivation. Frequently, I listen to motivational and entrepreneur talks. These messages helps activate my “beast mode.” Other times I remind myself if I put forth a little more effort The Spirit will carry me through. I have a writing routine that helps tremendously. I watch the same artist sing that Aretha Franklin song and tribute. Paying close attention to her stage presence and confident vibes. This particular performance rekindles my flame every time and gets me focused to develop my presentation better. Also, I like the fact that I see personal growth in all of my published works. All of them were hard to overcome but I did it. Moreover, my process will undoubtedly help others on their writing journeys. I’ve always had a joy in helping others. As a book coach and writer who has overcame a lot of writing challenges I know my skills will undoubtedly help many achieve their book dreams.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

In 2007, I was diagnosed with a brain disorder. I’ve been jailed and hospitalized due to my health condition. Despite my health setbacks I strive to accomplish goals. One of my many goals was encouraging peers to continue to live fulfilling lives in recovery. I keep a blog, Overcoming Schizophrenia, where I share my challenges and tips on mastering recovery. I don’t let my mental illness define me, nor stop me from living life to the fullest. Another goal of mine was having a family and publishing. I’ve achieved these goals. Now I have an opportunity to help others succeed at meeting their dreams and self-publishing their books through In Her Own Ink.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://inherownink.com
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/inherownink
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inherownink/
• Other: [email protected]