Kristian Zenz shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Kristian, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I have developed a culinary background in the past few years. A mere interest in baking, coupled with an increased awareness regarding eating habits, has resulted in a newfound love for cooking and all things food. I’m constantly looking to discover new recipes, ideas, and grow accustomed to new cultures and the flavors that they bring. I have never tasted nor made the middle eastern dip Muhammara before— spicy, sweet, and healthy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a writer, an author, and a student of life.
My love for writing stemmed around 3rd grade. We were told to write freely in composition notebooks, with black and white covers and a binder without a ring. It seems the stars aligned at this point, becuase the freedom of having a blank canvas to fill with words was nothing short of amazing to me.
I would fill those books to the brim, from cover to cover. My teachers were both astonished at my capabilites, as well as the cost to buy more notebooks. Such a simple beginning started something that will most likely be poignant for the rest of my life.
Since then, I have published my first novel, along with taking endeavors in short stories, poetry, and more.
I am in the process of creating more books. What those final reacts will look like, I am not sure yet. But, things are looking up.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
I recall blasting ‘Centuries’ by Fall Out Boy repeatedly after officially announcing the publication of my first novel and book, 2050. Life tends to get in the way, but I have been chasing that feeling since.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Fear of how others perceive me still holds me back. It mostly contributes to the routine I find myself in. I work out, exercise, and try my best to stay in shape. I aim to do this primarily for the sake of itself. But, there are anterior motives that sometimes take precedence. I have trouble seeing myself in the mirror still. I often get waves of guilt while eating my favorite desserts. I want to look good, as it is a factor for my mental health. But, I also want to for others, whoever is out there to view me.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
I hope not. I’ve gotten more comfortable with this aspect via my YouTube shorts. I sometimes upload myself trying custard or ice cream, especially oddball flavors like basil and mango. Shades of myself that one my find while I’m in my living room with my cat come out on screen. Online, I think I’ve done a decent job at creating a mysterious, vague poetry personality. People are free to interpret me as they wish. My generation and younger calls it ‘aura farming’ and I’m admittedly doing some of that.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I would probably trade in my iPhone for a landline. I would be so much more productive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kristianzenz.com
- Instagram: @kristianzenz
- Linkedin: https://www.instagram.com/kristianzenz?igsh=NGVpcHNzcHE3OTJv&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: @kristianzenz
Image Credits
Photography by Kristian Zenz, Anna Zenz, Jake Voegeli.
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