Rolling out recently spoke with writer Maisha S. Wynn about her latest project, The Wynning Way: A Guide to Creating Success Your Way.
What new author has piqued your interest?
During the birthing process of my inspirational book/journal, I was introduced to a Chicago author by the general manager of Barnes & Noble. Sheree Franklin’s book, Intuition: The Hidden Asset Everyone Should Learn to Use, shares her personal journey, the stories of others who have intuitively lived their greater purpose, and practical tips for the reader to truly tap into their inner wisdom. For me, my inner wisdom comes from my connection with my Creator. Through prayer and self-reflection, I am able to hear a word from God right when I need it.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything about your latest work?
Absolutely not! I’m truly pleased with the way my latest work turned out. My creative team did a beautiful job on the cover and layout of the book. The feedback has been tremendous, thus far. Some are calling it a life manual while others are saying it has transformed their lives.
Is there anything you find particularly challenging about writing or coming up with a concept for your book?
When you have a connection with your Creator, you are blessed with many ideas to share with the world.
What was the hardest part of completing this project?
The hardest part of completing my book was time! I didn’t feel like it was really on my side. Why? It took me over two years to complete my book because I was not fully focused on it. In 2015, I made a mental commitment to check it off my power list. I didn’t allow anyone or anything to get in my way, which meant a new level of focus.
What advice would you give other writers?
Do your research! Knowledge is very empowering for a writer. Spend time at your local bookstore and library. Pay attention to the books within your genre. Ask yourself substantive questions like: 1). Why has this book become a New York Times Best Seller? 2). How will my book fit into this particular genre? 3). How can I make my book stand out?
Describe the process in getting published.
As an indie author, you control your own destiny when it comes to your masterpiece! You collaborate with other publishing professionals (e.g., designers, editors and distributors) to create a powerful piece of work that readers will embrace. As an entrepreneur, this was the best decision for me. Why? It allowed me to control 100% of my creativity (from the title of the book to what was written in The Wynning Way: A Guide to Creating Success Your Way). For anyone who is ready to give birth to their book, this is the best route to go in my opinion.
Everyone’s process for writing is different. Explain yours.
A friend of mine, who had written a book, shared some great advice that helped tremendously. He told me to purchase colored stickies and write down my different thoughts whenever they came into my mind. Those thoughts finally turned into a powerful book that will soon be an international best seller.
Please provide three good to know fact about you. Be creative. Tell us about your first job or the inspiration behind your writing.
1). At eleven years old, I spent the summer in Vedado, Cuba with the Venceremos Brigade. I met children from all around the world. We would meet daily to talk about various social issues facing our country. Certain days, we didn’t have running water to take a shower or lights to see. After this life-changing experience, I came back to Chicago truly grateful.
2). My first on-air personality position was in Numazu, Japan. Numazu is a small city right outside of Tokyo. I was known as DJ Summer Wynn on Coast-FM. We played the best hip-hop and rap legends.
3). My favorite place of all time is Disney World. It’s truly a magical place that will transport you to a world of excitement, joy and happiness.
What is the mission you set out to accomplish with your voice in this book?
I knew I had to share my life experiences with the world. As an inspirational speaker, I wanted to create an interactive book that truly stimulated the readers’ universe (mind) and soul (spirit). A book that would make the reader ponder more about their life and living. The questions at the end of each chapter allow the reader to reflect and delve deeper into their life’s purpose. At the end of the day, I want my “wynners” to proclaim: “If Maisha can overcome her tragedies in life by staying prayerful, positive and purposeful…. so can I!”
Who are the writers you reread and why?
As a positive young lady who truly practices what she preaches, I have found a true connection with Joel Osteen and Sarah Ban Breathnach What I love about Joel is his consistent message of hope and inspiration. He teaches of God’s favor, mercy and abundance. With me being a very spiritual woman, I embrace those who motivate you to higher levels of greatness by trusting in God’s supernatural power. Now Sarah is not a pastor. However, her message coincides with my philosophy of embracing each day to the fullest. Most importantly, not taking your existence for granted. So often we as human beings get wrapped up in our daily routines without really savoring life. Sarah shows you how (from practicing meditation in your home to embracing a thankful spirit).
A great book has what?
I am not much of a fiction reader. However, a great nonfiction book allows the readers to self-reflect upon their own existence. You want them to be able to walk away with real tools and inspirational nuggets that will allow them to develop their own winning lifestyle.
Where would you travel if you could to write you next book?
Excellent question! I have a chapter in my book entitled: “Explore the World.” If I could spend an entire month in solitude to write my second book, I would rent a villa in Cabo San Lucas. It’s one of my favorite destination spots. It is something about the Son (Sun) and breeze from the Pacific Ocean that rejuvenates my universe.
What is the gift of reading and why does it open up a new world?
I grew up in a household where education was queen. My mother was an educator for Chicago Public Schools and DeKalb County Schools, for over 25 years. She taught me at a very young age that knowledge was true power. Reading increases your vocabulary while filling your universe with new information, which can be beneficial to you later on in life.
You can find The Wynning Way: A Guide to Creating Success Your Way at Amazon.com and online at https://www.livetowynn.com/
