Welcome to the newest post in Writing While Healing, a series where I speak with indie authors who’ve found light through writing during their darkest times.
Please introduce yourself!
My name is Deepika! I am an indie author from the Bay Area. I have written mystery, poetry, and romance. I have worked in different roles at nonprofit orgs. I enjoy watching basketball and soccer and watching movies.
Please tell us a little about yourself and the kind of stories you write.
I write character-focused romance and drama, slow burn, with tension. My romance stories are based in real life settings, and talks about themes of love, family, and friendship. My mysteries are filled with twists and turns and police procedural elements— retro thrillers have been my inspirations for my writing style.
How has your mental health influenced your writing process or creativity?
I sometimes don’t think my books are good enough— a bit of imposter syndrome. This has caused some self doubt. But when I design the cover or look at the manuscript as a whole, I realize that this story is one that people might enjoy. That I should keep going with it! Writing helps with my mental health, it relaxes me, it’s my corner to escape into the world of the story I’m writing!
Do you find writing to be healing, challenging, or a bit of both?
I find writing to be healing. When I began my author journey, I found writing to be a little escape, a way for me to write stories and immerse myself in the world of my characters. From that point on, I found that writing more stories, publishing them was like I had found my purpose and calling in life— to be an author. The challenging part about writing is the editing process, but it’s rewarding to finish the edits!
Are there any writing routines, boundaries, or self-care habits that help you stay grounded?
I like to write when inspiration hits. When I find myself with an idea (it can be abstract), I immediately have to write it out. What keeps me grounded is taking breaks. If my eyes are strained from staring at the screen, I take a break. During editing, I make edits, then put the document aside for a few days or months before coming back to it. This helps me keep the story fresh and not be burnt out.
What advice would you give to other writers who have similar struggles as you?
Just keep writing. Even if you think a story might not be “good enough”, get feedback from people, keep editing, and publish the story! Who knows, someone might be looking for a story that you’ve written!
Have you ever taken breaks from writing to focus on your mental health?
Yea! I take breaks when I can.
Where can readers connect with you and your work? (Socials, website, books, etc.)
Instagram- @familiarplacesbook
Website
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