Better Know An Author – Jacqueline Cripps
Our weekly spotlight series on authors from around the world. This week we sat down with Jacqueline Cripps!
Please give a brief introduction, including your name and where you are based
My name is Jacqueline Cripps as I’m an author, speaker and consultant.
As a ‘millennial translator’ I educate business owners, C-Level executives, and HR executives on the millennial generation, so workplaces can flourish. As an author/writer I write regular articles for several publications (focused on management, millennials, workplaces and business) and have published two books (non-fiction).
What book or books have you published or are working on at the moment?
In 2017, I self-published #WTF is happening with my life? A guide to getting your sh*t together. The book provides clear-cut guidance for women on how to shift perspective, become empowered and change their lives.
In 2019, I self-published Smashed Avocado and the Quarter Life Crisis: A Millennial Survival Guide. This book discusses the contemporary issues faced by millennials, offering guidance to readers on how to navigate their lives.
Right now, I’m writing my third book, a fictional novel.
What drives you to write?
The core of the work I do is to educate, inspire and create positive impact. When it comes to writing, I love having conversations that matter. I’ve always been a lover of language and expression; writing affords an outlet to do that.
The drive behind my non-fiction books was creating impact: shifting perspective, creating awareness and inspiring change. My third novel, while fiction, is written with the same premise. The underlying themes being important issues that need to be spoken about, that we need to be having conversations about.
I want to make a difference and I feel writing allows me the perfect platform to do that.
Where can folks find you online and on social media?
Web: https://www.jacquelinecripps.com
IG: @jacquelinecripps
FB: @jacquelinecrippsauthor
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelinecripps/
What is one piece of advice you would give to another author out there who might be struggling?
It’s a long-term game and it takes work – which means setting expectations is a huge thing. I think for some us millennials (me included) patience can be tough, especially when you’re so passionate about a project. But the reality is, writing a book is as much about the process and journey as it is about the outcome. Writing is a craft and the more you can surround yourself with other writers, find community, learn from authors that inspire you, continue to perfect your craft of writing – the better the outcome will be with your book. And ultimately, we want to write the best book we can.
What are some of your five-year goals with writing?
Ideally, I’d like to have my current novel published in the next year-18 months. Even though I’m querying agents right now, I’m aware of the process and work – so it’s also me setting realistic expectations! From there, I’d like to dive straight into another novel. I’ve already got some ideas I’m working on, but for now it’s one thing at a time.
I’d love to see this book on TV/film – so the screenwriting avenue I’ve been exploring. It’s a fascinating industry and who knows, I may end up writing the script myself!
As an author and finding the value in community, I’d also love to be able to continue to share my learnings by giving back to the creative community. I’ve come to truly appreciate the value in community and support, so I’d like to do more for other authors.
Final thoughts?
A final piece of advice to other writers and authors, is to always believe in yourself and your vision. For some writers, self-doubt can be a battle; we become critical of our work, and ability to write, which can lead to a lot of unhelpful thoughts or habits, like procrastination. Understanding that the creative industry is subjective – what some love, others might dislike – can help mitigate some of feelings of disappointment, rejection, or ‘not good enough’ when we get feedback that might feel personal, or not constructive. But that shouldn’t deter you from following your vision as a writer. Expect to grow and evolve as a writer and be open minded to learning, but don’t take the negative personally. Expect to feel vulnerable, especially when it comes to sharing your work, but don’t let that stop you from creating and putting your mark on the world. Be confident.
I’m so grateful for the opportunity Daniel, thank you. If I can be of any service to you and your work please let me know.
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