We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Charron Monaye a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Charron, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
My work ethic has its roots deeply embedded in the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, where survival and the pursuit of a better tomorrow intertwine. Growing up in an environment where resources were scarce and opportunities seemed few and far between, I learned early on that hard work was not just a choice but a necessity. It’s about more than just showing up—it’s about showing up ready to give it your all, no matter the circumstances. Every challenge I faced became an opportunity to prove to myself that I had the resilience and determination to persevere. And while the road hasn’t always been easy, it’s been this unwavering commitment to putting in the effort, day in and day out, that has propelled me forward. It’s not just about striving for personal success; it’s about creating a better future for myself and those around me, fueled by the belief that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m Charron Monaye, and my journey in the entertainment industry has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over the past three decades, I’ve worn many hats, from writer to playwright to book publisher and beyond. But perhaps what I’m most proud of is creating the beloved children’s book series, The Adventures of Michelle.
My work spans across a myriad of genres, totaling over twenty-five books that reflect my versatility and creative flair. Whether I’m addressing societal issues as a staff writer for CNN iReport and The Philadelphia Association of Paralegals, or captivating audiences with my stage play, “Get Out of Your Own Way,” I’ve always strived to leave a lasting impact.
As an entrepreneur, I’ve founded Pen Legacy & CM Writes, platforms dedicated to nurturing and sharing the stories of both aspiring and established writers. Through these ventures, I’ve had the privilege of shaping the author careers of numerous talents, including Valerie Workman Esq., Evelyn Braxton, Ty Johnston-Chavis, Debbie Douglas, and Precious L. Williams, Esq. In addition, I’ve also lent my exceptional writing skills to individuals, organizations, and celebrities, serving as a ghostwriter or work-for-hire for books, media content, and screenplays. My commitment to amplifying diverse voices and nurturing talent underscores my legacy as a trailblazer within the entertainment industry.
Ultimately, my goal has always been to inspire audiences worldwide with my storytelling passion and entrepreneurial spirit. And as I continue on this journey, I’m excited to see what the future holds.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that have been most impactful are resilience, adaptability, and creativity. To be honest, the entertainment industry can be tough, with its ups and downs, rejections, and setbacks. Resilience is essential for weathering those storms and staying committed to your goals. To develop resilience, it’s important to cultivate a growth mindset, practice self-care, and seek support from mentors or peers who can provide encouragement and perspective during challenging times. The next one would be, being able to adapt. This world is constantly evolving, and being able to adapt to new trends, storylines, and opportunities are crucial for staying relevant and relatable. For me, creativity is the lifeline of my purpose and passion. Cultivating my creativity, through writing, involves nurturing my imagination, experimenting with different forms of expression, and allowing myself the freedom to take risks and explore new ideas. Also, I surround myself with diverse influences, engage in activities that inspire me, and I never shy away from thinking outside the box.
For those just starting out on their journey, my advice would be to focus on nurturing the qualities that align with your character and personality. Ground yourself in understanding who you are and why you’re pursuing this path. Stay resilient in the face of challenges, and never underestimate the potential of your imagination and ideas to distinguish you. Above all, have faith in yourself and your distinctive voice—it’s your most valuable asset on this journey.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
Over the past 12 months, my most significant area of growth has been in my mindset and prioritizing myself. As someone accustomed to leading from the front but living from the back, I often neglected my own happiness, wholeness, and stability. I realized that by constantly sacrificing myself, I was giving more than I could afford and losing sight of who I truly am. My struggle stemmed from prioritizing others over myself, which led to losing touch with my own needs and identity. Now, I’ve learned to check in with myself regularly, prioritize my well-being, and set boundaries. My “no” is louder than my “yes,” and I’ve become attuned to my feelings. I understand the importance of self-care and no longer pour from an empty cup. My focus is on living for myself, not for the expectations of the world. This shift has been transformative, allowing me to reclaim control of my life and happiness.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.charronmonaye.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamcharronmonaye/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MonayeRocks
