We caught up with the brilliant and insightful STENETTA ANTHONY a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

STENETTA, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I was an educator for 20+ years before writing and publishing my first children’s book. Consequently, I was not familiar with how to get a book published. The first step taken to familiarize myself with the publishing process was to take a writer’s/publisher class. Although the class was informative, I was still left with many questions regarding what it really took to take your book from writing, editing, proofreading, illustrating, publication and to market.

What I learned during this time was the importance of researching before you begin any new career or project. Although I was familiar with writing, I did not recognize how to officially publish a book. You must learn the different approaches and steps required to take your book from: idea, writing, publishing and finally to market. While also familiarizing yourself with the various avenues to having a book published; some of which include traditional, hybrid, or self-publishing just to name a few.

Skills I found to be most essential during this process was learning the business part of publishing. That you are not only an author, but your books are a business which you must learn to market correctly. Collaborating with other authors helps during the publishing process because suggestions on how to improve your writing is a valuable key. Along with learning how to overcome my fear of performing interviews, since I was most comfortable in the classroom.

I believe the obstacle which stood in my way the most was me. I was intimidated with this new publishing world and had to overcome the fears that I knew had sometimes held me back from moving forward and sharing with others that I was now officially an author .

STENETTA, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I never considered myself a writer and always enjoyed storytelling. Often transforming familiar stories such as The Three Bears, The Little Engine that Could and others into my own words which I often shared with my students and other children. I wrote and published my first book at the young age of 45 which really began my true desire for writing, causing me to catch what I call, “the writer’s bug.”

Resources which are are important is social media connecting with your audience, authors and others are imperative. There are many who share their writing experiences and discover answers to questions. Although there are many who are social media experts, which I do not consider myself in this group. I am always open to learning the latest strategies and resources which it provides. This helps me to advance and grow my business effectively. Which is one of the things I am most proud of.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

As a writer I am not only writing but reading as well. Make Today Count, How Successful People Think and The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John Maxwell. Each of which offers a different perspective about you personally and your business. I also like The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper which encourages the importance of collaborate with others and although you maybe small you can be successful. Lastly, a movie entitled Imagination of Life this movie encourages me to accept me.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

As a writer you are always creating, even it’s just in your mind. I believe stories can be discovered anywhere. Some noncreative people think your ideas are strange, but being creative causes you view ideas and the outlook on life differently.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.stenettaanthony.weebly.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stenettaanthony/
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/public/stenetta-anthony
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stenetta-anthony-42b28544
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/StenettaA

Image Credits
Stenetta Anthony, Jedlin Reading with your Kids, Anti-Cruelty Society