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

Hi J. , thanks for joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I believe many of us are born artists, but we blossom into our artistry during different stages of our lives. The creative/artistic path wasn’t something that I consciously pursued at first – my words were a means to help men and women find a common bridge of communication in relationships by looking inwards first. The moment being an author and writing professionally clicked was when I was writing my first book. It was after midnight, and I was alone at my desk and overflowing with joy. At some point, I remember looking up and saying, “This is what freedom feels like.” I wasn’t tired, although working my full-time job earlier, and it was the moment when I discovered my why. As the book came together, I envisioned it would be a springboard to a new career path for my girlfriend at the time and our future family. Before the book was published, the same book I created to save others became my flotation device. I put a lot of emotion into it, and the rest was history. I have been riding the wave ever since.

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

My name is J. Wesley and I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. I am a first generation American with both parents immigrating to New York from Jamaica. At an early age, I remember my mom once pulling me to the side (probably for saying something sharp, smart and hurtful) and saying, “Before you speak, you have to think about how they will feel.” As an adolescent, I received a lesson in empathy and it was instrumental in my becoming a writer. My dad is an entrepreneur, which is  why I majored in Business Management at Fairleigh Dickinson University. After publishing my book, I created a merch line comprised of apparel and home decor called the J. Wesley Collection. What makes my brand unique is the ability to mix simplicity with aesthetic designs  that are inspiring, attention grabbing and often a catalyst for conversation. I am proud of discovering my why and using my gifts to push the world forward. My words have healing properties – numerous readers going through difficult times have used my book to guide them through their storms. I am grateful for finding courage, although at times I am scared, to put make my word and brand public.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Absolutely! When creating a business, I assumed friends and acquaintances would rush to support and purchase my products. I wrote this piece after discovering I was mistaken. “Get used to the sound of your own applause because to pursue a dream is often the loneliest road traveled. The support you thought would come freely is often sleeping when you’re not – quiet when you need reassurance. A dream is specific to you because no one will care for it more than you will – nor should they. Your success hinges on the ability to push through when everything in you wants to turn around. Be encouraged. Believe in yourself first. Set the standard. Raise the standard. Everything will follow. You were popping before you popped.”
When creating a business, your vision isn’t always visible to others but it’s important to stay the course. Remember why you started, and never lose sight of where you are heading. The end goal, as distant as it may feel, will be reached eventually.

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

The world needs art and its many forms. As a writer, my words and their impact will outlive me. Many artist travel through dark spaces to light the world – personally, in their unique way, they are superheroes. There is also a freedom when creating art. I am a night owl, but when my pen hits the paper and it begins to click, it feels as if the universe is in complete alignment. It is something you will never forget, nor want to.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jwesleycollection.com
• Instagram: writehiswrongs
• Facebook: writehiswrongs
• Twitter: writehiswrongs