Women Crushing It | Natalie Garcia
Welcome to Women 'Crushing It' Wednesdays, a blog series that highlights the achievements and celebrates the success of women who are crushing it in their career and in life!
Today, we have the honor of interviewing Natalie Garcia, Writer, Poet and Creative Director.
Natalie, how did you get to where you are today?
I've been a publicist for a long time and writing has always been a part of my career. However, two years ago I started writing poetry after dealing with some mental health issues to help me express my emotions and feelings more thoughtfully. Little did I know that all my writing would one day turn in to my very own poetry book. I always wanted to write my own book and I am so proud that it's now happening. I am even more proud that I was able to turn my dark moments into beautiful poetry.
What did you enjoy reading as a child?
I loved reading R.L Stein book such as Goosebumps and Fear Street. I also read poetry books like Shel Silverstein.
What motivates you?
My family; my daughter is big part of my motivation. She brings light to everything I do and I want to be a great role model and inspiration for her.
How did you get started as a writer/poet?
As kid I use to write poems and magic spells. It helped me build my confidence and express myself more creatively. I also loved performing and reciting poems in front of my class; it was the only time I wasn't super shy about speaking in public.
Where does your writing inspiration come from?
My inspiration come from my own life and personal experiences like heartbreak, death, as well happy moments like the birth of my daughter. I also get inspired by Mother Nature, my culture, and my spiritual connection to the Universe.
What do you find most challenging about being a writer/poet?
The most challenging thing I would say is not fitting inside a box. My style of writing is very different from what is out there so I don't feel like I fit in a specific category, but I am now focused on creating my own niche and setting my own standards outside of the box.
What’s your favorite book and why?
My favorite book is 1984 by George Orwell because it's so relevant to today's society. It was the first book that really awakened the rebel inside of me.
If you can have lunch with any author, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Maya Angelou because she is my favorite poet/writer of all time. Watching her perform her poems on stage is like seeing a shooting star for the first time. Her energy and her words are beyond inspiring and I hope to follow in her footsteps one day.
You're about to be a published author. That's an amazing accomplishment. Can you tell us about your soon to be released book?
My poetry book is called Cosmica. It took me two years to write. The inspiration to write it came from my own personal experiences and my journey to heal mysyself.
What do you want your readers to know about your book?
It's a magical book that takes you on poetic journey to self-love.
What’s your favorite poem in the book?
Chicana and The Ultimate Destination.
What advice would you give other aspiring writers/ poets?
To feel it, write it and go for it.... Don't let your doubts or anything stop you from writing your book. Writing a book is a wonderful journey and you have to take it day by day!
When will your book be released and how can people buy it?
My book will be release at the end of October and people will be able to purchase it on Alegriamagazine.com as well as LaBrujitaDelJardin.com.