Recently FWM caught up with best-selling author, Erika Latanya to learn more about her highly-anticipated book, Love Has No Season.
FWM: Introduce yourself and tell our readers about your newest projects.
Hi, my name is Erika Latanya. I’m a national bestselling Author and Publisher. I’m the owner of Dear Diary Publishing. It’s a fairly new small business. I currently have a new book releasing soon titled, Love Has No Season. It’s a short story about a young woman navigating through life in a new city. She believes that love has an expiration date but she finds that’s not so.
FWM: How did you get into your business?
I decided to create my own publishing imprint in the literary world because after being signed to a publisher I decided to branch out. I wanted a home for my published works. I like to be in control and be my own boss.
I believe that no matter what field you’re in… you should always strive to get to a higher level in your career. I was afraid to give it a try but I decided to step out on faith. I believed in myself.
My biggest accomplishment has been becoming a #1 national bestselling author!
FWM: How do you handle stress in your line of business? What is your biggest hurdle you’ve overcome since becoming a business owner?
The biggest hurdle I’ve overcome is accepting things don’t happen overnight. It takes lots of time to grow loyal readers. It’s an ongoing process.
Stress is a normal part of life and you can’t avoid it. Writing is how I handle stress because it’s therapeutic for me. I also handle stress by taking a deep breath and changing the things I can and forgetting the things I can’t change.
Running a business is tough hard work.
FWM: What is the biggest achievement you’ve accomplished with your business?
My biggest accomplishment has been becoming a #1 national bestselling author in two categories on Amazon. It took lots of marketing on different platforms to get there. I ran tons of ads on Facebook and Instagram to bring awareness to my books. I gave away samples of chapters. The hard work paid off.
FWM: In your opinion, what is the key to success?
Commitment is the key. Work on your craft or business everyday. It’s ok to take a break for leisure time but don’t forget the ultimate goal. Treat your business like it’s a relationship by putting your all into it.
FWM: The best business tip you can give a prospective person who is looking to merge into your field?
If becoming an author or publisher is something you want to do then I recommend it only If it’s your passion. Writing a book is hard and it can take lots of time to complete. Think it over and once you do… go in and unleash your creativity. I say to people all the time that “writing is like acting on paper”.
FWM: What is a quote/mantra that motivates you?
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
erikalatanya.com
Ig: @erikalatanya
Twitter: @erikalatanya
FB: fb.com/erikalatanyabooks
Amazon.com/author/erikalatanya
