TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF
I am a writer, author, and poet who believes in the power of words to inspire and connect. I love to travel and use it as a creative source for my writing. I make it a priority to explore and immerse myself in a variety of cuisines and cultures, always seeking to expand my views and deepen my understanding of the world. I love to garden and spend most of my free time planting fruit trees, nurturing my garden, and creating a space to read, write, and recite my poems. My husband and son are the heart of my world, their love and support mean everything to me.
I’ve written and published ten books in the last five years, including affirmation coloring books, prayer journal workbooks, poetry collections and grief journals. Each book reflects a part of my journey and the messages I feel compelled to share with others. I write under the pen name “Paragonwords” across social media.
My love for books is rooted in my childhood, reading under the streetlights on the beautiful Island of Jamaica where I grew up. One of my favorite memories is waiting on the library bus to come each week so I could exchange my bounty of books.
In addition to my work as an author, I have spent the past 28 years working with Marriott International. I am passionate about giving back to my community and currently serve as the DEIB Chair for our local Junior League, as a member of the Denison Middle School Advisory Committee, and I’m also on the board for Girls Inc. of Winter Haven.
For me, writing isn’t just a hobby, it’s a way of living, of expressing gratitude, hope, and reflection. I’m grateful for every opportunity to share my stories and to inspire others to live intentionally and embrace the power of their own words.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WRITING?
I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember. It started as a quiet, personal expression and has since blossomed into something I do every day. Writing has become a journey of both self-expression and connection with others, and I’ve cherished every step of it.
WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?
I write from a place of empathy. I draw inspiration from the emotions of those around me, from places and things that are unique and speak in their own way. I also draw inspiration from the way people navigate joy, pain, hope, and struggle. These feelings fill me, and I channel them into my work, whether it’s through a poem, a prayer journal, an affirmation book, or a grief journal. Writing becomes a way for me to connect with others on a deeper level, capturing the essence of what it means to be human, and experiencing the full range of emotions, both the light and the dark.
I observe the world around me and allow my heart to stay open to life’s experiences. Whether I’m volunteering in my community, traveling, or soaking in the beauty and fruitfulness of my garden, these moments fuel my work. I also expose myself to other forms of creativity like art, culture, music, film, and anything that evokes emotion and stirs my imagination. These experiences shape the stories I tell and help me channel those feelings into my writing.
TELL US ABOUT SOME OF THE PROJECTS YOU’VE COMPLETED. WHERE CAN WE FIND THEM?
I’m currently putting the finishing touches on my grief journal workbooks, which will be available in the next few weeks. It’s a project that’s close to my heart, designed to help people navigate their grief and find healing through guided journaling.
In addition, I’ve completed eight other projects, including affirmation coloring books, prayer journal workbooks, and a poetry collection. All my projects can be found on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Goodreads, BookBub and on my website at paragonwords.org.
If you’re local, you can also find my journals at Amy’s Gifts & Party Planning, AR Workshop, and Boutique Outlet. I’m grateful to have these spaces where my work is available to readers and those looking for a creative outlet.
HOW DID IT FEEL THE FIRST TIME YOU HELD A COMPLETED BOOK IN YOUR HANDS?
The first time I held a completed copy of my book “Sackcloth & Silk” in my hands was an incredibly surreal moment. I had spent so many months pouring my heart and soul into this collection of poetry, and to finally see it, tangible and real, was both overwhelming and deeply fulfilling. I finished the book during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when many were feeling stuck or overwhelmed. While the world outside seemed to pause in uncertainty, I used this time to push ahead, focus intently on the process, and finish my book. It was a meaningful moment that showed how creativity can thrive, even in the most difficult times.
Holding my book in my hands was like holding a piece of myself, a collection of emotions and experiences that had found their place in the world. It was a proud moment, but also humbling, knowing that something I had created could now be shared with others.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FOR YOU IN WRITING?
One of my biggest challenges is being vulnerable in my writing. As I often write from a place of empathy, tapping into the emotions of others and being in tune with the vibration of the world around me, it requires me to open myself up and step into places that can be both beautiful and painful. Writing with such emotional depth sometimes feels exposing, but I’ve learned to embrace it as part of the process.
Another challenge for me is juggling writing with my other commitments, like my career, family time, traveling, volunteering in my community and at my local schools, etc.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE PEOPLE TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR WORK?
I had to think about this for a minute because above all, I hope that readers feel seen, understood, and inspired by my work. I want my readers to know that they are not alone in their experiences, whether they’re facing joy, sorrow, or moments of quiet reflection. My hope is that my writing offers them comfort, encouragement, and a sense of connection.
I also want my work to inspire action, whether it’s to help someone start a personal journey of healing, to spark creativity, or to simply embrace the power of their own words. Ultimately, I want everyone to know that their words matter, their voice is powerful, and their story has meaning. If my books can inspire someone to take a step forward in their own life, to find peace in a moment of struggle, or to feel more connected to their own heart, then I’ve accomplished what I set out to do.
WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING WRITERS?
My advice to aspiring writers would be to trust yourself and stay true to your voice. Writing is a personal journey, and you’re not going to please everyone and that’s okay. Don’t worry about the trolls or harsh critics. Their criticism often reflects more about them than about your work. Stay focused on why you write and who you’re writing for.
Also, remember that the first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. It’s about getting your thoughts and emotions down on paper. You can always refine it later. Writing is a process, and growth comes from writing consistently, even when it feels challenging.
Lastly, make time for your craft, even if it’s just a little each day. Every word you write brings you closer to your goal, and over time, your unique voice will shine through. Keep writing, keep learning, and trust that your work will resonate, align and empower the next generation of writers.
A MOMENT OF GRATITUDE:
I want to thank each of you for your support, whether you’ve read my books, followed my journey, or simply connected with me through my words. Your encouragement means the world to me, and I am deeply grateful for your support.
Please know that your journey matters, and I’m honored to be a part of it, even in this small way. I encourage you to keep seeking out what fills your heart, to trust in your own ability, and to never stop believing in the power of your own words. Thank you for being a part of this creative journey with me, I have so many amazing things coming and I can’t wait to share more with you!
Nikki Sterling
@paragonwords
