We recently connected with Stacy Newton and have shared our conversation below.
Stacy, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
I made a decision that would change the course of my life forever: I was moving to Los Angeles to pursue a career as a writer.
Leaving behind the familiar and comfortable was daunting, to say the least. The idea of trading in the predictability of a 9-to-5 job for the uncertain world was a risk. And yet, there was a fire burning within me, an undeniable passion for storytelling that had been simmering beneath the surface for far too long.
Los Angeles was a place where dreams were woven into the very fabric of the city, a place where countless artists and writers had embarked on their journeys to success. The allure of rubbing shoulders with fellow creatives, of being in a city that thrived on imagination and creativity, was irresistible.
The decision to move was not made in haste. I meticulously planned my transition, saving up and researching every nook and cranny of the city. The prospect of uncertainty was a constant companion during those days leading up to my departure.
The day finally arrived when I boarded the plane bound for Los Angeles. My heart was a whirlwind of excitement, apprehension, and everything in between. As the plane descended into the City of Angels, I gazed out of the window at the city below. It was a sprawling canvas, waiting for me to paint my story upon it.
Life in Los Angeles was not without its challenges. The cost of living was higher than I had ever imagined, and the competition in the writing industry was fierce. There were days when I questioned my decision when doubt threatened me. But I had come too far to turn back now. I embraced the uncertainty and the sleepless nights as part of the journey.
Slowly but surely, my persistence began to pay off. I found my voice amidst the cacophony of voices in this vibrant city. I attended workshops, connected with fellow writers, and immersed myself in the rich cultural tapestry of Los Angeles. The city, with its diverse creativity, and pulsating energy, became my muse.
As the months turned into years, I started landing more significant projects. I was writing scripts my first novel was in the works. I had created a life for myself that was far from the ordinary, a life that was filled with passion and purpose.
Looking back on my decision to move to Los Angeles, I realize that it was one of the most profound risks I had ever taken. It was a leap of faith into the unknown, a gamble on my own abilities and dreams. But it was also the most rewarding and fulfilling decision of my life. Los Angeles had not only become my city; it had become my inspiration and my home.
In the end, taking the risk to pursue a career as a writer in Los Angeles was not just about changing my location; it was about changing my life. It was about stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing the uncertainty that comes with following one’s dreams. It was about believing in the power of words to shape not only my own destiny but the world around me.
So, to anyone contemplating a similar journey, I say this: Embrace the risk, follow your heart, and trust in your own abilities. The path may be uncertain, but the rewards are immeasurable. In the City of Angels, I found not only my career but also myself. And in that discovery, I found a life filled with purpose and passion, a life worth living to the fullest.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I was currently living in Houston, Texas (where I am from originally) and teaching. One of my childhood friends was surprised I was teaching and not professionally writing. Writing was a passion for me. I had always dreamed about going to Los Angeles and becoming a film writer. My friend gave me a link to a well-known actor who owned a studio in North Hollywood. The next day I heard from him, inviting me to a premier in Los Angeles. I met all of the people I’m friends with now and have had an incredible opportunity to film with them. I knew that’s where I wanted to be and so I began my journey towards that direction.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
As a writer, I love to tell stories. I am proud that I wrote one of my first books while I underwent several surgeries. It was a difficult time in my life and writing helped me with the physical pain. When I had my first book signing at Barnes & Noble, I felt accomplished. Nothing is without sacrifices and an inner drive to get to where I am today. When an opportunity came, I took it. I knew later in my life if I didn’t, I would regret it. I believe in making peace with my past, including any mistakes I have made, to learn from them and keep moving forward. I am in a place where I can help others keep their dreams alive. Setbacks are just that setbacks. Keep moving toward your dreams and making them into reality. Reflecting back, I embrace all of the pain, mistakes, and disappointments. I would not be the person I am today. Keep shining!
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
The goal behind my writing is to let other creative people know, that regardless of what industry they are in, if I can do it, they can do it. My mission is to continue writing books and scripts that tell stories of strong characters that can survive anything. Characters people can look up to and identify with. Stories that people can relate to. Stories, in essence, bring us all together. I believe there is a story in all of us.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.stacyknewton.com
- Instagram: skyowriter
- Facebook: Stacy Newton
- Linkedin: Stacy Newton
Image Credits
Adam Sheridan-Taylor photographer for photo in red top and photo in black blazer.