Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Amanda McKoy Flanagan. I am an author, runner, vegan, and a drummer. I’m also a licensed Master of Social Work. I am sober in 12-step recovery for almost 17 years and am a cofounder of a recovery clubhouse in Castle Rock, CO, where I live. I am passionate about climate change advocacy and live a life based on spiritual principles.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book Trust Yourself to Be All In?
I was challenged with turning what was originally a personal development book into an inspirational memoir with personal development elements. I didn’t think anyone cared about my story, but my amazing editor convinced me that my story is the most powerful tool I can use to help others heal. Transitioning from personal development to memoir meant I had to get extremely vulnerable, honest, and humble. It was also difficult rewriting the part about my brothers drug overdose and death. Almost every time I edited it, I cried. It was also a struggle to choose words and sentence structure that truly and accurately conveys my story in the most impactful way, with the intention of bringing healing to the world.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Brene Brown, Braving the Wilderness and Daring Greatly, Gabby Bernstein, The Universe Has Your Back, HeatherAsh Amara, Warrior Goddess Training
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Long Beach, NY. It’s where my husband and I lived and began our family before we moved to Colorado. I love the mountains, but I miss the beach. I feel connected to the vast ocean, and to spirit, and it reminds me that I am a tiny microcosm in this expansive universe we live in. I also love a spot called Butlers Gulch near Winter Park, Colorado. It’s a hiking trail with waterfalls, rivers, gorgeous flowers, and canopy trees. I feel at peace and very close to my soul there.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
There wasn’t a lot to do because I didn’t have a warning. I was struck with divine inspiration, and it poured out of me.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book Trust Yourself to Be All In?
A little over a year for the story to take solid shape, then I spent another 3-4 months trying to perfect the writing.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?
Amazon and Barnesandnoble.com. There is a link to my Amazon page in my bio on Instagram and Facebook.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title Trust Yourself to Be All In?
I envisioned a field of flowers surrounding the title the same day I knew I was going to write a book. I explained the concept to my talented and insightful graphic designer, and she was able to convey the concept masterfully. She really understood the story and added in the white, gray, and black flowers to express the balance of dark and light themes throughout the book.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also you?
The 3 C’s, as my editor calls them: Clear, concise, and compelling. Every sentence must embody all 3 C’s. Every sentence and paragraph must be considered for effectiveness, clarity, and purpose. Each word must be selected as carefully as possible to truly express the sentiment behind the sentence.
Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
To get rid of “fancy writing,” and to stop hiding behind metaphor. Make sure the metaphor does not take precedence over the meaning. Once the sentence becomes more about the metaphor, then you’ve lost the meaning, and the reader, because it becomes stressful. A stressed reader will put your book down.
Buy Trust Yourself To Be All in on Amazon
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