Delia Pena-Gay may be new to the industry but that hasn’t stopped her from pursuing a writing career. The pandemic caused her to pivot and think about other ways to turn what she loved doing into a profit. So she took a leap of faith and began building her writer’s life. We hope you enjoy getting to know her in this sneak peek of Delia a writer.
What did you do before becoming a writer?
Well, I was a Dental Assistant for the last ten years. Dentistry is one of those dirty jobs that no one really wants to do but can be really rewarding. People always ask me “how do you deal with the bad breath all day?” LOL. Honestly, you just get used to it. What I enjoyed most about Dentistry was that I was able to help people with their smiles. You’d be surprised how poor dental hygiene can affect a person’s life. In some cases, poor oral hygiene held people back from going after the things they want in life. Many of my patients would say I carry a calmness that removes the anxiety that comes with dental visits.
How did you start your writing career?
Ever since I was a kid, I always kept a journal. I journaled because it was relaxing and therapeutic. I’ve always been a talker and I felt I best expressed myself through writing. Then the pandemic hit and I had to think of other ways to make money. I was furloughed from work and was uncertain if and when I’d work again. There’s a saying that if you do the things you love it won’t feel like work and that’s what I did.
What’s your favorite thing about your writer’s life?
I get to decide how I want to spend my day. I’m in control of what I want to write about and for who. Someone is always going to need a writer. There are so many different paths you can take as a writer. There’s copywriting, social media marketing, content creation, journalism, and so much more. What it all boils down to is that I want to create a life doing things that matter to me most. I enjoy the freedom that comes along with writing.
What motivates you in life to strive for more?
It was knowing that there is more to life. We live in a society today that tries to force its will on us. The standards that some folks live by don’t necessarily promote individuality or acceptance of oneself. One of my favorite sayings is “this ain’t it” because I believe that if you don’t like your current situation, then do everything you can to change it. I am learning that small goals lead to bigger goals that lead to your purpose.
What five words best describe you and why?
Quirky – My mind works a little differently. I mean everyone’s mind works differently but when I see things I somehow am able to relate them to a sitcom. Smart- I’ve taught myself a couple of new things during the pandemic such as drawing, building a website, and how to be a Digital Steward. Determined/ambitious- I won’t stop until I get what I want. Loving- I have a big heart.
What are some of your goals?
My goals are to keep working on my writing and learning. I’m an intern for the National Black Guide, and this is one of the resources I have that allow me to grow as a writer. Ultimately I want to write blogs and other pieces of content for other people. Show the different layers that make black and brown people special. Be the voice for those that can’t find the words.
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