We were lucky to catch up with Rona Shirdan recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Rona thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Looking back, do you think you started your business at the right time? Do you wish you had started sooner or later?
Growing up in the 1970’s, the expectation was that you went to college, graduated, and then got a professional job with a good salary so you could raise a family. You continued working at the same job until you retired. Since the standard path was predetermined, those who deviated from the plan were considered “unsuccessful”. Like most, I chose the road to “success” and attended a prestigious college then continued my career journey.
The problem with this decision is that all too often you end up in a rut. You choose a career path that gets you started and seems promising at age twenty but loses its luster a decade or two later. By then, you are often making decent money, have an established retirement fund, great benefits, AND…a family that counts on this security. You must choose between changing careers to explore the unknown or continue with the routine. I chose the routine.
Working for a Fortune 100 company may provide you with the things you originally thought were important career goals. You learn new skills and advance up the corporate ladder. However, unless the job also allows you time to pursue your passion and step out creatively, it can leave you unsatisfied. This can be true for many professions where you are not the one who sets the rules and strategies. Taking the safe road leaves you subject to the goals, policies, and ethics of the parent company. Finding time in your busy work schedule to also explore fun distractions is often a rare and unexpected bonus!
At some point, I realized that I had an interest in writing children’s literature. This had nothing to do with what I was doing in my 9 to 5 role. I loved reading children’s books and wanted to write them as well. I began to spend time with other writers and was hooked. I’d found my passion. I decided to find a way to add this new venture to my already overloaded schedule. I planned my personal days and vacations around writing-related events. I felt joy when I was with like-minded creatives. I continued this exercise, keeping writing as a hobby, until I retired.
After retirement, I started a second career as a freelance writer, editor, and picture book coach. Looking back, I often wish I had made the change sooner but then, upon reflection, I realize that it happened at just the right time. I needed to go through my years in the corporate world to get the skills and financial security that allow me the flexibility to explore the wonderful career I enjoy now.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Today, I am a freelance writer, editor, beta-reader, and picture book coach. I am also the founder of Writing with EEEs, a coaching service that partners with picture book writers on their journey to publication.
With one-on-one support, I EMPOWER, EQUIP, and ENCOURAGE writers who are in the revision stage of working on their manuscripts, just prior to embarking on the submission process. I provide professional feedback and insight, helping them move forward in getting their story in the best shape possible.
I also work with new writers, motivating them and inspiring them to use their creativity to persist and grow. I assist them by helping them brainstorm ideas, provide them with craft resources, and assist with time management.
Throughout the partnership, I keep my clients excited about the process as we make their story the best it can be. What sets me apart from others in my field is that my primary focus is on the relationship. I truly am my client’s biggest cheerleader!
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
It wasn’t long after my retirement that we were all thrust into a new way of life due to the pandemic. Like most people, I faced a need to pivot and find a different way to do business and supplement my income. I already had a relationship with the Highlights Foundation as I had attended a variety of craft-focused workshops that they hosted for children’s writers and illustrators.
The Highlights Foundation is a wonderful organization whose mission involves “amplifying the voices of storytellers who inspire children to be their best selves”. They embrace a culture of kindness and support the values of creativity and diversity that make a true difference. I developed a working relationship with them, doing the beta reading for their online workshops. It was also at this time that I founded my own business, Writing with EEEs, a coaching service for picture book writers.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My current published work is in the Christian and educational market. I am committed to the process of peacebuilding in the areas of social justice and diversity.
My focus is on children’s literature and partnering with organizations that embrace initiatives supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion. I want ALL children to feel seen and valued through the books they read, while also learning to appreciate others with different experiences. It is this mission that drives my creative journey.
It’s now in this second-go-round that I have found true joy and purpose, doing something I love that also uplifts and encourages others. My advice in all of this – find your passion and pursue it with with your whole heart, don’t give up – no matter what stage in life you are. It’s never too late!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ronashirdan.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rona.shirdan
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rona-shirdan/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonaShirdan