Today we’d like to introduce you to Lamesha Junior.
Hi Lamesha, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Mathematics and writing have always been my passion. I competed in mathematics competitions in elementary and secondary school. My love for math powered me to complete a Master of Science degree in Mathematics and work as a software engineer, tutor, and adjunct professor. After having my son, I decided to become a stay-at-home mom. When I decided to reenter the workforce, my love for writing came to the forefront. I’d become an avid reader while my son napped and that sparked my desire to create fictional stories of my own. To build my confidence in creative writing, I took several online writing courses, attended workshops, and read several writing craft books. So far, I have had a short story published, completed three novels and two short stories, wrote and edited articles, and launched my food and lifestyle blog. In this new career, I have been blessed to meet other writers and bloggers who have encouraged me and helped me to hone my skills. I’ve also loved cheering on my peers as they achieve their dreams.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My first completed novel was rejected by twenty literary agents. My confidence was crushed. After I made the decision to stop querying that book, I struggled to write for several months. There were days when I opened my laptop but could not write a sentence. There were weeks when I did not even try to write a word. It was during this time, that I had to decide if I wanted to give up or try again. My son and husband really encouraged me during this time. Though this was a huge obstacle to overcome, I eventually decided to try again and began writing another book. It took me a lot longer to complete this next book, but each day I made progress with my writing my confidence slowly returned. I realized that I had to rethink success and began rewarding myself with positive self-talk every time I completed a small milestone.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I realized during the early stages of my writing career that I wanted to explore other options in addition to writing fiction. I have freelanced, critiqued and edited short stories and novels, and blogged. My blog covers various topics including food, writing tips, and my personal interests including wellness and books. With food blogging, I have been able to create content sharing delicious meals served at local restaurants, and I provide recipes and meal inspirations from some of my family’s favorite dishes. I purposefully highlight meals that are easy to duplicate. This has been intentional to help people enjoy homecooked meals that don’t require complicated steps or long hours to make during a busy work week. With my writing blog, I share lessons that I have learned on my journey. By telling my full story and not just the highlights, I hope other writers will not get discouraged if they encounter roadblocks during their road to publication. I also hope that I can inspire other people to never give up on their personal and professional dreams.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I agree that success isn’t always found in our comfort zone. So I am learning to embrace taking responsible risks. When I decided to become a writer and blogger, I was terrified because it was a different field from what I’d studied in college. My passion for writing was present but I worried that maybe I should stick to what I knew. I’m glad that I decided to step out on faith because this experience has been rewarding. I have loved witnessing the growth in my writing, building my confidence, and the friendships that I’ve made. I am preparing to take another risk soon and will be offering calligraphy services in addition to my writing and blogging.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://lameshajunior.com/
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/lameshajunior
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/lameshajuniorjohnson
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/lameshajunior
- Other: www.pinterest.com/lameshajunior
Image Credits
Lamesha Junior
Timothy Johnson
TwoLees Photography
