We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sheri Simmons a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Sheri , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?
I am very happy as an artist and creative. It’s the freedom to create anyway and just express myself in a way I couldn’t growing up. At times I do wish for a regular job because with a regular job, I feel you can leave and come back at your scheduled time. I can’t do that as a creative. First of all, as a creative, it’s hard to shut off my creativity. I always am thinking of a new idea, project etc. Secondly, my social media platforms are so active. People message me and are just emailing me all times of the night. I feel like a mini-celebrity sometimes. Sometimes it can be overwhelming with the many messages, and requests. However, I wouldn’t change anything for the world.
Sheri , 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?
I started out writing my first play in the 6th grade. I was excited to see the words I wrote come into fruition. I then started writing stories about people and things I knew. I didn’t like to share my writing too much. The few people I did share with kept pushing me to publish a book. I did that starting in 2011 and in 2012 my first book was published. I had no idea what I was doing.
I am proud of the fact since 2012, I have helped over 10 authors publish their books, I have ghostwritten a few projects, created courses and workshops for aspiring authors and so much more. It has been a wonderful journey for me and I am deeply humbled to be able to live the life of a creative that is helping others live their dreams
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
Yes, there is a particular goal and mission that drives my creative journey. As the owner of my LLC, From Pain to Purpose, I am passionate about helping people through writing and storytelling to find their purpose in life.
The power of storytelling is immense, and it can help individuals to process and understand their experiences in a more meaningful way. By sharing their stories, people can connect with others who may have gone through similar experiences, feel validated and heard, and gain a sense of clarity and direction.
Through my work, I aim to create a safe and supportive space for people to explore their stories and find the meaning and purpose behind them. Whether it’s through writing workshops, coaching, or other creative endeavors, I am dedicated to helping people discover their unique gifts and strengths and use them to make a positive impact on the world.
Ultimately, my mission is to empower people to live their most authentic and fulfilling lives by embracing their stories and using them to create a brighter future for themselves and those around them.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The creative journey can be a long and challenging one, with many ups and downs along the way. However, seeing the impact that my work has on others can make all the hard work and dedication worth it. When I receive messages from people who have been touched, inspired, or moved by my work, it can be a powerful reminder of the importance of my craft.
Ultimately, the relationship between the artist and their audience is what makes the creative journey so worthwhile to me. Whether it’s through personal connections, social media engagement, or other means, the support and encouragement of readers and supporters can make all the difference in an artist’s life and career.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.frompaintopurposellc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consultwithsheri/