Rediscovering My Passion: Balancing Authentic Storytelling and Creative Endeavors in a Changing Industry

Jul 1, 2024 | Creative Writing

In a Mighty Friday session with Jane Carter a few months ago, I was asked a surprising question that changed my perspective.

“But what do you do that feeds your soul? Do you work on writing just for you?”

I hadn’t thought of it that way, but it’s been on my mind a lot since then.

I’ve decided to make a slight shift for the rest of this year to see where it takes me. As AI is rapidly taking over many tasks traditionally done by writers, I want to see how it shakes out. While I continue my work with dpeg Marketing Company and my current clients, I am only taking on two more clients this year.

If you’re interested in authentic storytelling for your brand, feel free to contact me.

A Lifelong Passion

I don’t remember a time when I didn’t write. In elementary school, we had an assignment to write a couplet poem for Halloween. I wish I still had that poem, but I have the memory of my teacher praising me for something I did well. That was the moment I discovered my passion for writing. From then on, I wrote whenever possible, even when I should have been doing other things. I filled reams of notebooks with stories instead of taking notes in class.

In college, I enrolled in a creative writing program, but doubt crept in, and I switched my major to the even less practical field of anthropology. I didn’t write much for a long time after that. When we moved to Georgia in 2002, I revived my love for writing and became a staff writer for an independent magazine while working in recruiting. This side hustle ended when the magazine changed hands a few years later.

Once again, I shifted my focus back to recruiting and didn’t write for several years until I joined a now-defunct blogging collective. In the final years of my corporate career, I worked hard to transition to writing full-time, which became a reality in 2012.

Storytelling for Brands

For twelve years, my work has primarily involved creating blog content and copywriting for small businesses and marketing companies. I am proud that my first client is still with me. Two years ago, I partnered with dpeg Marketing Company, focusing on equine and agriculture content.

I am grateful to have built a successful career in content creation. However, with the rise of AI, I am curious to see how the industry evolves over the next six months. There have been lean times before, but I have always managed to keep going. During those times, I often find opportunities to do more creative work.

Creative Endeavors

During the pandemic, when many of us had to slow down and adapt, I spent a lot of time working on fiction projects. It had been years since I wrote fiction, but flexing those creative muscles again felt great. I finished two novels, although they both need significant revisions. Once work picked up again, I shelved them.

Last year, a friend suggested an idea that inspired a short story, which I quickly wrote. Like my novels, it also needs revisions. Another friend has encouraged me to write a non-fiction book for her publisher for years, but I always felt my ideas were too scattered.

In the second half of this year, I plan to focus more on these creative projects. I’m carefully revising my short story, hoping this process will help me develop the habit of revising and eventually tackling my novels. I also started working on a proposal for the non-fiction book. I finally managed to create a coherent outline and have begun writing the sample chapters.

Looking Ahead

I am excited about these projects. Alongside my work with dpeg and my other clients, I am enthusiastic about diving into more creative endeavors. I am also looking to add two new clients to my roster. I want to work with brands eager to tell their stories and create educational and engaging content that attracts algorithms while prioritizing readers.

Discover the Art of Authentic Storytelling with a Real Human Writer

Are you ready to elevate your brand’s voice with content that truly resonates? My artisanal approach to content creation isn’t just about writing; it’s about crafting stories that embody your brand’s essence. With a foundation in genuine human connection and a touch of magic, I bring your vision to life in a way that algorithms can’t match.

Experience the difference of homegrown, handcrafted content tailored just for you. Whether it’s weaving your brand’s narrative or collaborating on innovative projects with dpeg Marketing Company, let’s create something unforgettable together.

Connect Now to explore how we can transform your content strategy with stories that engage, inspire, and relate.

Laura M. LaVoie

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