Author in the Picture: Darlene Corbett

A while ago, I got the chance to read and review a book via Booktasters. It was
Stop Depriving the World of You - A Guide for Getting Unstuck, written by
Darlene Corbett. You can re-read my review on this link. 

I was very fascinated by her book and her unstuck theory that I wanted to ask her
for the author in the picture post. 

So, here are the questions and answers for and by Darlene Corbett. 

Questions and answers

How did you start writing? Did you for ex. study something special?

I fell in love with writing in my fifties. I took no courses, but I constantly hone
my writing skills. I have developed a style of writing that is conversational.

My first article was published in 2011 when the Massachusetts’
National Association of Social Workers invited me to write about hypnosis
for their monthly publication. I was scared to death. My initial fear is that
it would be rejected. Fortunately, it was not. A friend who did not know I was
writing it, let me know had read it and thought it was good.

Next I wrote for an online forum that focused on aging. The editor liked my
articles. Some of the audience did not like my message of having more choices
as we age, but that is a different story. My confidence continued to grow,
and I began writing articles on LinkedIn. I wrote a few when Huffington Post
gave a platform for those who wished to publish on their website. Unless,
your article was elevated, you could not locate the author.

 Eventually, through a newsletter, they found their way in front of an
administrator of a small publishing company who introduced me to the
publisher, and my book was published several months later. Along the way,
I began to write articles for Sixty and Me and a few on Thrive Global. Finally,
BizCatalyst360 reached out to me  and invited me to write for them.
Within a short period of time, I went from Columnist to Featured Contributor
for their online media platform.

Can you tell me more about your writings?

Most of my writing is around subjects of personal development since
I am a therapist. The beauty of my professional identity is that it crosses over
many issues in life. I have also begun to take a stab at writing some fiction around a
historical figure. It has been much fun to try to get into their heads and develop a
short story around them.

Do you prefer to write/work alone?

I write alone. I would not be opposed to write with a group, but time
for me is the essence.

Do you have a special daily routine?

No, I fit in writing when I have time or make time if I want to finish an article.

What is your biggest inspiration?

I do not know. I believe in God and feels he inspires me.
An idea will suddenly pop into my head. It could be around a person,
event, or something I forgot about and try to resurrect. I am blessed that so far
I have not experienced writer’s block.

How did you start with the unstuck theory?

I worked with a strategy coach on how to hone my very broad message of
positivity. She suggested this, and being someone who helps to get people
unstuck for a living, it resonated with me.

You do a lot of professional things. Can you explain more and which
one do you like the most or don’t you have any preferences?

I love all of my professional experiences. As I get older, I would like to cut
back on my therapy practice and increase my speaking and writing endeavors.
I will always be a therapist which is my foundation for everything else.

Do you like sport or do you do other important things for your health?

I exercise at least three to four times a week. The treadmill  has been my main
source, but as I get older, I have added other forms of exercise such
TRX for my upper body.

How did you spend your time during the Corona time?

I have been very blessed to be able to make a living with the help of platforms
that bring virtual therapy to the world. My clients are fine with it. I prefer to see
people versus teletherapy. I had been planning to close my practice in eastern
Massachusetts, and fortunately, virtual therapy has helped me usher into this next
chapter. Again, I am blessed that I have these tools. Other than going out far less,
my life has not changed except for not having an arduous commute.

Do you like to learn new things?

I remain a lifelong learner and will continue to be so all the days of my life.
Like many writers, I am a voracious reader. Before the internet, I used to keep
a dictionary by my side to research words that went beyond my vocabulary.
When I leave this earth, I hope to be reading a good book or writing one.

What are your plans/wishes for the future for you and the world?

I plan on continuing all of my endeavors. Again, I want to increase speaking
and writing.  I may slow down, but as the great Confucius said, “It does not matter
how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”

Thank you 

Darlene, I want to thank you very much for taking your time to answer my 
Questions. I wish you lots of success with all your projects and keep me
updated :-) 

👉 If you want to know more about Darlene Corbett, please check her website
on this link.