Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Hence.
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I am a self-published author. I recently wrote a children’s book titled Landyn’s Imaginary Adventure. I love to read and so does my son. I noticed when reading my son’s children’s books there was a lack of representation. So, I thought to myself why not create him his own book and whaalaa a book idea was now in the making lol. I was self-conscious about writing a children’s book as this was a new lane for me. But I figured it was worth a shot. I’m glad I challenged myself and was able to go outside my comfort zone.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not lol. Again, this is a new path for me so there were a lot of things I was unfamiliar with. One being finding a good illustrator and creating realistic timeframes. I had a timeline on when I wanted the book to come out, but the illustrator took longer than anticipated, which delayed my release date. Also, to get your book in libraries, bookstores, etc., there is a hefty price tag for the exposure, which I wasn’t aware of. It’s hard to self-advertise. I’m still working on marketing my book.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Educational background: I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor. I provide mental health services such as individual counseling.
However, I’m hoping to foster my career as an author. I wrote a self-care book for the professional woman who thinks she has to have it all together. I’m super excited to tell them that’s a load of crap and helping them be fine with throwing the independent woman role in the trash. I’ve also written a fictional romance novel. Most recently I partnered with various authors to write an anthology called It’s All Love. Selfish plug lol…it can be viewed at https://www.amazon.com/Its-All-Love-Romance-Anthology-ebook/dp/B0CVLJTN8N?ref_=ast_author_mpb
I feel like I stand out in a crowd as I consider myself to be pretty transparent and real. I have no problems confessing I can be a hot mess myself. I’m not perfect nor do I try to be, and I think people appreciate my honesty.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you.
I don’t think it’s luck that has impacted my business. I feel it’s my faith and diligence that’s helped me stay resilient through the roller coasters of self-employment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://authorashleyhence.wixsite.com/mysite
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorashleyhence
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555243715906
