Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kevin Gray. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Kevin, so excited to have you with us today, particularly to get your insight on a topic that comes up constantly in the community – overcoming creativity blocks. Any thoughts you can share with us?
Early in my writing career, I complained to an editor about writer’s block, and he quickly threw that notion aside by saying: “It’s your job to write. Accountants and doctors don’t get to have accountant’s block and doctor’s block.” Harsh as that felt to a young me, the sentiment has stuck. Now when I’m feeling uninspired or generally blocked, I push through it by focusing on the less-creative side of writing. For example, I might organize my notes, lay out a basic outline of ideas I want to convey, or add a couple of already-obtained quotes onto the page just to see some words in front of me. Such actions feel productive, and feeling productive is often enough to keep the wheels churning, allowing me to get back into the right headspace for more creative writing.
That said, sometimes I’m just not feeling it, and it’s good to know when you simply need a break. Making something to eat, exercising, listening to music, or otherwise taking a break can be the quick reset I need before getting back to work.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a writer and editor specializing in food, drinks and travel, though my work over the years has also ventured into fitness, men’s style and gear/tech. Currently I’m a freelancer, which allows me to contribute to many publications, but I’ve also worked on staff at various outlets. Before entering this field, I worked in PR for three years. PR wasn’t for me, but it introduced me to a lot of journalists, and I realized that I wanted their job instead of mine. It took a couple of years to establish my writing career, but that was almost 14 years ago, and I’ve been doing it ever since.
My work has appeared in a wide variety of publications, from local outlets in Texas where I’m based, to national magazines and websites, including Forbes, GQ, InsideHook, Men’s Health, Thrillist, Travel & Leisure, and VinePair. I’m also the co-founder of Bevvy, a website that covers the drinks industry, providing recipes, reviews, news and a look at the people behind the bar. And I judge spirits for a couple of international competitions.
I travel as much as I can — both for work and pleasure — and believe that exploring new destinations is often the best way to learn about people and cultures.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Curiosity — Never stop learning, reading, asking questions and deep-diving into the subjects that interest you. You’ll develop a knowledge base that makes you better at your job, and you’ll also be a more interesting, well-rounded person.
2. Communication — This feels especially important as a writer/editor, but good communication skills are vital in all industries. The ability to ask questions, set expectations, and keep conversations open and free-flowing has always served me well.
3. Know your value — It’s hard to say no to work, especially when you’re just starting out. But it’s important to know your value and allow yourself the space to produce the best work you can. Saying yes to everything, or accepting jobs for less than you’re worth, is a dangerous precedent. The best clients will understand what you bring to the table and compensate you accordingly, which breeds mutual respect and long-term relationships.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
The journalism industry is in flux. And it’s shrinking. Mass lay-offs over the past few years mean that I’m now competing for gigs with my former colleagues and editors, so more and more people are fighting for a piece of the same pie. It’s challenging to stand out in such a crowded marketplace. I don’t know how it will all shake out, but for now I’m focused on producing high-quality work, maintaining relationships, networking and otherwise ensuring that I’m top of mind for assignments and projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bevvy.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevinrgray/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrgray/
- Other: https://muckrack.com/kevin-gray-2
