Write For Yourself With Author Jessica Yeh

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About Jessica Yeh

Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve always been interested in the arts. My favorite classes in school were art, music, and English. I’m a bit of a klutz, so I focused on things I could do that involved fine motor skills – violin, piano, guitar, art, and photography. So, I guess it probably makes sense that I ended up in the field that I’m in now. I do a little bit of writing, a little bit of art, and a little bit of photography. I wouldn’t consider myself a “professional” by any means, but I definitely say it’s a passion.

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How And When Did You Get Started Writing?

I’ve always been a bit of a hopeless romantic. I used to write these ridiculous stories about my crushes in my journal as a kid. This eventually led me to writing fan fiction of my favorite characters as a teen, and then full blown novels as an adult. It was always been a bit therapeutic for me as well. As an introvert, it’s hard to express yourself out loud. I always shut down when people want me to speak my thoughts. But if you give me a quiet space and a notebook, I can go on and on.

What Does Literary Success Look Like To You?

I don’t really write for the purpose of making sales. I don’t care about being a “best-selling author.” (My publisher might kill me for saying this.) Don’t get me wrong, it’d be a nice perk. But I write because I want to provide an outlet for people who need an escape or something to relate to. The whole reason I wrote my debut novel was because I struggled with coming out and I knew that there were so many others who did too.

What Actionable Tips And Tricks Do You Have For New Writers That They Can Apply Now On Their Journey As Budding Writers?

Less is more. When I wrote the first version of my debut novel it was so unnecessary long. You might feel like you need to describe characters thoughts or feelings, but in good writing, actions and dialogue does the work for you. Cut back on adjectives and adverbs.

What Are Common Traps For Aspiring Writers?

I think a lot of writers feel like they need to write for their audience, but you should really be writing for you. There are always going to be critics, but you have to do your best to ignore them. It’s not a fan service. It’s a work of art and you need to make sure it’s something you love and that you’re proud of.

If You Could Tell Your Younger Writing Self Anything, What Would It Be?

Stop trying to satisfy everyone. Write because you want to and write about what you love.

What Are Your Favorite Books? Fiction And/ Or Non-Fiction?

Growing up, I loved reading the Magic Tree House series. The Color Purple and The Alchemist made a huge impact on me as a teenager. But my all-time favorite book was a children’s book that my babysitter gifted me called “Jessica.”

Anything You’d Like To Plug?

Nowadays, I feel like a lot of people see things on social media and think “Oh no, why am I not like them?” or “Why haven’t I reached that stage in my life?” I’m guilty of it too, but you have to remember that there is no timeline for life. There’s no set journey that you need to follow. Be yourself and do what makes you happy at a speed that makes you comfortable.

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