We recently connected with AMARA RUSSELL and have shared our conversation below.
AMARA, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
It’s been said that your purpose is found in your childhood, which I found through life experiences and reflecting on my younger self, to be true. Since, the age of ten, I have been creating stories, developing relatable characters, and inspiring others through my writing to see themselves, take accountability, and be all they were created to be. I remember quoting in one of my peers’ yearbooks in middle school, “Books Before Boys”. Not knowing then, that I was speaking what eventually would become what I love to do, which is to inspire/encourage those around me, and create stories that are relatable and life-changing, while including my own life experiences and vicariously living through the characters that I create.
This journey called life, has led me to do what I love because it gives me, freedom, and peace, inspires others, and allows me to be myself. Writing and journaling have become therapeutic for me. It is my outlet for releasing emotions, good/bad from life’s challenges, broken relationships, and painful experiences.
I am, re-discovering how to love myself, and releasing things of my past. It’s doing what I love and putting my all into it, no matter the time loss, the setback, the hurt, or what it would cost to manifest what is deeply embedded within me. I can say, slowly, but surely, that I am boldly and confidently walking into my purpose.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a Fort Worth native. Oldest of one sibling, with two adult children and an amazing grandson. I’m a Full Sail University graduate, with a B.F.A. degree in Creative Writing and a Master of Arts degree in Public Relations. I am a prolific writer who’s been fascinated with storytelling since age ten. My love for creating characters that are inspiring and relatable has led to publishing my first novel, A Rare Diamond in 2016, and winning a global award. Since then, I have written many articles, blogs, short stories, and scripts, and have been featured in local magazines and newspapers.
In 2020, I discovered a rare talent for film directing and producing and produced my first drama series based on my novel, A Rare Diamond. Which is currently streaming on Amazon Prime and YouTube.
I published a trilogy set to A Rare Diamond, a devotional titled, Nspired and I am the co-author of an Anthology, titled 20 Beautiful Women. I recently launched a host of journals and planners, The Rare Journal/Planner Collection. All can be found on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or my online bookstore, www.amararussell.com.
I am in the process of having my publishing company re-branded by an amazing talent, the Owner/CEO of Astonished Management and I am currently accepting new clients. I’m working on another novel and a host of new journals and planners. When not working, writing, or growing my publishing brand, I can be found doing what I love most, seeking God through prayer, spending time with family, mentoring, or enjoying cooking and being an encouragement to others.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Life experiences have been the most impactful, that old saying, “You live and you learn”, is true! Some qualities that have been most impactful to me during this journey were, being authentic, people need to see you for who you truly are, it’s the only way they will be able to relate. Be open and willing to learn new things and new ways of doing them. lastly, stay committed, determined, and consistent. Regardless of the setback, keep going!
I would tell anyone willing to step out on faith and manifest their dreams, whether it be going back to school, starting a business, or writing a book, to get out of your way, and be okay with failing forward, no matter how long it takes, how many times you have to start over, eventually, you will get it right and it will be the perfect timing! Research, research, research, invest in the courses/workshops. Remember, you’re doing it for you! It’s okay to lean on and learn from others, allow them to use their gifts and talents in the areas you’re not strong in, put your faith in God, and trust the process!
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
May they both rest in peace, but the most impactful thing my parents did for me, was believe in me! That showed me how they loved, supported, and were always there for me! That alone gave me the courage to believe in myself! All I ever wanted to do, was make them both proud!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rare-publishing.com and www.amararussell.com
- Instagram: rare_publishing_company
- Facebook: Rare Publishing
- Linkedin: Amara L. Russell
