We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lynnette René Doby a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Lynnette René, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Wow, great question! As a Black female ghostwriter, “solo syndrome,” as I call it, is something that, unfortunately, I have quite a bit of experience with. I’ve found the best way to be successful in those situations is to show up authentically as yourself. Often in those spaces, it’s best not to aspire to conform but to use originality to express your unique point of view. Also, be prepared for the possibility that because you are different, you may face opposition from the status quo. Leaning into that feeling of isolated thought and sticking to what you know to be right is powerful. Realizing I have a right to be in the space means that all of me deserves to be present.
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?
My journey in finding my career path was a unique one. Ever since I can remember, I loved stories. I was one of those kids who always had their nose in a book that would be caught with a flashlight under the bedcovers, finishing up a chapter before bedtime. Circumstances and environments, unlike my own, have always intrigued me.
As an adult, after spending years in sales, I decided to find more fulfillment in life. I found myself reminiscing about what I liked doing as a child. It was always performance, writing, and my love of words. So, I went to art school and got a Masters Degree in Performing Arts. While there, after reading one of my papers, I was encouraged to pursue my writing ability professionally by one of my professors, an Emmy award-winning producer.
From there, I began pursuing acting full-time and ghostwriting for film/television. After working in the entertainment industry and only reaching a modicum of success, my focus shifted to crafting manuscripts. I enjoy telling the stories of high-performing, diverse executives, creatives, athletes, and founders who overcame adversity to become legendary. Many diverse professionals want someone who can capture their voice and tell their story with skill. That’s where my ability steps in. You can learn more about my ghostwriting services on my website, www.writewayconsulting.net.
Recently, I’ve started coaching younger writers who want to have a career in the literary industry. The goal is to be the resource for them I didn’t have when I first started my freelance writing career. I recently released an eBook, “If Your Customer Service Sucks, Your Business Sucks.” It highlights my customer service strategy and everything a beginning writer should know about customer service. Find it at my Etsy store, Write Way Digital.
I intend to fill the world with engaging content and tell as many diverse stories as possible. It is an honor and a privilege to use my ability to help others.
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?
Flexibility is a freelancer’s most valuable asset. Regardless of the industry, it can make or break an entrepreneurial career.
Things can change at the drop of a hat, so it’s optimal to be agile and flexible as you develop your business. As a writer, developing this skill has helped me adapt to changing deadlines, editors, other elements, and factors.
Being an entrepreneur means betting on yourself on a super high level. There is often fierce competition, and those who succeed are confident in their ability and go for the compensation they deserve. Many ghostwriters advertise their writing services on mass consumer-based freelancing websites and make $1000 per book. Then some independent ghostwriters charge $400,000 or more and have a client waiting list. I’m willing to bet the difference between these two professionals is knowing their worth.
Last, acceptance has helped me see things as they are and not how I want them to be. Seeing things clearly allows me to put a period at the end of a sentence and realize when something is not serving my highest good.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
The biggest area of growth I’ve experienced is a mindset shift. Releasing things, people, and circumstances that no longer serve me. I realize how things start is how they typically will end. If it starts on an uneven keel, it will be that way throughout the entire situation. This valuable lesson applies to every aspect of life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.writewayconsulting.net/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnette-ren%C3%A9-doby-mfa/
- Other: Visit my Etsy Store Write Way Digital!
Are you a writer who wants to Pick My Brain? Let’s talk!
Image Credits
Photo Credit: Lowell Waters
