We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Michele Mcavoy a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Michele , so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
I don’t think imposter syndrome is ever completely overcome. Imposter syndrome sneaks in more often than we would like. Studies have shown that it happens to women more than men. Whenever imposter syndrome rears its ugly head, I look to other smart, successful women like Jennifer Lopez or Jessica Alba, who both found success creatively and in business, and say to myself, if they can do it, so can I! I also say to myself, what would I tell my kids? As parent’s we often tell our kids to persevere; that they can achieve anything they put their mind to. Why would it be different for us?
Another great way to overcome imposter syndrome is to find a great community of folks that are looking to achieve similar goals/dreams. Seeing them push forward will help you stay the course for yourself.
Finally, imposter syndrome often sneaks in when you’re tired. Remember, it’s always ok to take a break! Your dream will still be there when you’re well rested.
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 children’s book author and the founder and publisher at The Little Press, a traditional children’s book publisher. I started writing creatively as an outlet for my loss, when my father passed suddenly, 3 days after 9/11. It was a difficult time for me. I started writing stories for children after the birth of my own children, realizing, as a parent myself, that the last thing my dad would want would be for me to be sad. So, I started to write with newly discovered joy and color. Writing and publishing stories for children is what I was meant to do. I love being able to bring joy to children through stories, and I love being able to bring joy to other creatives by publishing their stories.
The Little Press is a traditional independent publisher. We publish picture books through young adult and we seek to bring new voices and talent to market. In this way, we publish authors and illustrators who are debut or early in their publishing careers. You can find our books everywhere books are sold. And, you can request our books from any bookstore or library. You can find out more about The Little Press at www.littlepresspublishing.com
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?
Perseverance, building community, and giving myself a break when I need it. Being an attorney didn’t hurt.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
My number one obstacle right now is finding the time to do it all. To resolve this problem, I am trying to delegate more to the team.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.littlepresspublishing.com
- Instagram: @littlepresspublishing
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/littlepresspublishing
- Linkedin: @michelecerullomcavoy
- Twitter: @little_press
Image Credits
Michele McAvoy
Jessica Gibson
Cardinal Rule Press
The Little Press
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
