We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Damont Diggs a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Damont thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.
Certainly. One risk I took was deciding to leave a stable corporate job to pursue a full-time writing career. The backstory involves years of juggling my passion for writing with the demands of a nine-to-five job in finance. Despite enjoying aspects of my corporate role, I felt unfulfilled creatively and longed to devote more time to my writing.
The tipping point came when I received an offer to publish my debut novel, “The Love Revolution.” It was a moment of validation that spurred me to reevaluate my priorities. After careful consideration and planning, I made the bold decision to resign from my job and dive headfirst into the uncertain world of full-time writing.
The risk was daunting. I faced financial uncertainty, as well as doubts about whether I could sustain myself solely through writing. However, the prospect of pursuing my passion outweighed the fear of failure. I knew I had to seize the opportunity to fully commit to my craft and see where it would take me.
In the months that followed, I poured my energy into writing, refining my skills, and building my author platform. There were moments of doubt and setbacks, but I persisted, fueled by my love for storytelling and the belief in my abilities.
Ultimately, the risk paid off. “The Love Revolution” garnered positive reviews and found an audience eager for more of my work. I also had the opportunity to explore new avenues in writing, from teaching creative writing to mentoring aspiring authors.
Leaving behind the security of my corporate job was undoubtedly a leap of faith, but it led me down a path of fulfillment and creative freedom that I wouldn’t have found otherwise. It taught me the value of taking calculated risks in pursuit of one’s dreams and reaffirmed my belief in the power of storytelling to shape lives, including my own.
Damont, 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?
As an author and creative writing instructor, my journey into the world of storytelling began with a deep-seated passion for words and narrative. From a young age, I was captivated by the power of storytelling to transport readers to different worlds, evoke emotions, and provoke thought.
After earning my undergraduate degree from the University of Southern California, where I honed my writing skills and developed a keen understanding of storytelling techniques, I continued my education with a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of California, Los Angeles. These formative years provided me with the necessary tools and knowledge to embark on my writing career.
My debut novel, “The Love Revolution,” published in 2020, introduced readers to my signature style of storytelling, characterized by intricate plots, multidimensional characters, and thought-provoking themes. Set in contemporary settings, my works often explore complex human emotions, relationships, and societal issues, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives.
In addition to novels, I also write short stories and essays, which have been featured in various literary journals and anthologies. Each piece showcases my ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers on a deep and personal level.
As a creative writing instructor, I draw on my experience and expertise to mentor aspiring writers, helping them find their unique voice, develop their skills, and navigate the challenges of the writing process. Through workshops, classes, and one-on-one coaching sessions, I provide personalized guidance and constructive feedback to support writers at every stage of their journey.
What sets me apart from others in the industry is my commitment to authenticity and connection. I believe in the power of storytelling to bridge gaps, foster empathy, and inspire change. Whether through my writing or teaching, I strive to create meaningful experiences that leave a lasting impact on readers and students alike.
I am most proud of the connections I’ve forged with fellow writers and readers, as well as the moments of insight and inspiration that my work has sparked. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my stories with the world and to contribute to the rich tapestry of literature.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that my work is driven by a deep love for storytelling and a commitment to excellence. Whether you’re seeking a compelling novel to immerse yourself in or guidance on your own writing journey, I invite you to join me on this creative adventure. Together, let’s explore the boundless possibilities of the written word and discover the transformative power of storytelling.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
There was a time when I faced numerous rejections for my manuscript, “The Love Revolution.” Despite the setbacks, I remained steadfast in my belief in the story’s potential. I used each rejection as an opportunity to refine and strengthen my writing. Eventually, my perseverance paid off when I found a publisher who shared my vision. This experience taught me the importance of resilience in the face of adversity and reinforced my commitment to my craft.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
One lesson I had to unlearn was the belief that success in writing could only be achieved through solitary effort. Growing up, I often thought of writing as a solitary pursuit, where I had to rely solely on my own ideas and skills. However, as I delved deeper into the writing community, I realized the value of collaboration and feedback. The backstory involves my reluctance to share my work with others, fearing criticism or judgment. Over time, I came to understand that constructive criticism and diverse perspectives can greatly enhance the quality of my writing. This realization led me to embrace collaboration and seek out opportunities for feedback, ultimately enriching my creative process.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdamontdiggs?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamdamontdiggs?mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damont-l-diggs-50776a71?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
Image Credits
Damont L. Diggs