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It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Sharon J. Burton, author of Creative Sparks: 21 Affirmations and Inspiration for Creativity at Midlife

Author’s Bio:  S​haron J. Burton has actively served as a visual artist, art curator, poet, podcaster, teaching artist and creativity coach for 20 years in the DC, Maryland and Virginia areas.  She is the founder of Spark Your Creative Coaching, where she works with artists, authors, writers and other creatives to unblock and reach their creative potential. She also serves as the host of the Spark Your Creative podcast (SoundCloud) focusing on midlife artists, writers and creatives.

 

She received her certification in creativity coaching from the Creativity Coaching Association. She completed requirements for the professional certificate in Art Business from New York University. Sharon is also a certified Meditation Instructor and as a Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra Guide.

 

Sharon has a visual art studio, writing and creativity coaching practice based in Southern, Maryland where she has lived for over 20 years. 

 

Deliah Lawrence: What inspired you to write your book?


Sharon J. Burton: I was inspired by my own personal journey to revitalize my creative passion in my late 30s.  I had to overcome a lot of self-doubt and criticism to move forward to become a visual artist.  It wasn’t easy but having met and worked with a variety of artists and other creatives who are moving through a similar journey, I saw the need to have something for people who are at mid-life and want to embark on a long overdue creative life.

 

DL: What is your writing process?


SJB: My writing process was simple. I worked on several outlines before finalizing my Table of Contents.  Much of the content for each chapter were from blogs I wrote during the last few years on a variety of subjects. That made the writing process much simpler than writing from scratch.  I did some research on some topics and the use of affirmations to provide a theoretical basis for the book.  I worked on editing them to make them more book friendly.  I used the content of the book to survey the artists and creatives I interviewed so that they could provide the best responses and advice to support the topic.

 

DL: What obstacles did you encounter while writing this book?


SJB: COVID-19 was one obstacle that was a challenge.  Even though I had more time to write, the uncertainty of the situation threw me off a bit.  Also, the balance of running a coaching business and a full-time job had its own demands.  When I felt overwhelmed, I tabled the book project until I felt the inspiration to write again.

 

DL: If you were hosting a dinner party which three authors, past or present, would be your dream guests and why?


SJB: My dream guests would be: 

  • Julia Cameron:  Her approach to unblocking creativity has always been effective for me.
  • Iyanla Vanzant: I find much of her work healing and affirming from a spiritual point of view.
  • Toni Morrison: Her unique way of telling complicated but intriguing stories based on family dynamics has always fascinated me since I was thirteen. 

DL: What tips would you give to aspiring writers?


SJB: I would give them the following tips:


Know Your Why: Understand why you want to write and what you want to achieve.


Read Other Books: Read books in your genre and beyond to understand styles, techniques, and trends. Analyze how authors structure their work and engage readers.


Start Small and Build: Begin with short pieces or manageable goals. Over time, expand to larger projects like novels or nonfiction books.


Develop a Writing Routine:  Set aside dedicated time for writing every day or week. Consistency builds discipline and momentum. Create a comfortable and inspiring writing space to help focus.


Embrace Imperfection: Your first draft doesn’t have to be perfect—it just needs to exist. Revision is where the magic happens.


Build a Support System: Join writing groups or communities for feedback, encouragement, and accountability. Consider finding a mentor or coach to guide you.


Learn About the Publishing Industry and Process:  Research the pros and cons of traditional publishing versus self-publishing. Build a basic understanding of querying agents, writing proposals, or formatting for self-publishing platforms.


Prioritize Self-Care: Writing can be emotionally taxing. Take breaks, practice mindfulness, and balance your creative life with rest and play.

 

DL: What are three books you’ll never part with?


SJB: I’ll never part with these three books:

  • The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
  • When Chicken-Heads Come Home to Roost by Joan Morgan
  • How Georgia Became O’Keeffe: Lessons on the Art of Living by Karen Karbo 

DL: What are three fun facts about yourself?


SJB: 1) I have a twin sister and a younger brother, and we all share the same birthday. 2) I am an avid hiker and love being in nature on the trail. 3) I am a budding wine connoisseur and love learning about the wine making process.

 

DL: Would you like to share an excerpt from Creative Sparks?


SJB: Sure, here you go:


Are you seeking a way to express yourself creatively? In your search for your creative spark, you may discover talents you didn’t realize you possessed, new activities that bring fun and excitement into your life, and new ways to relax and rejuvenate.  There is no right or wrong creative outlet, only the one that fits you and your personality.  Finding what you want to do to express yourself doesn’t have a deadline either.  It just takes time to explore and follow your personal whims and interests.  (From Chapter 3: Affirmation 3- I Am Open to Exploring My Self-Expression, P. 38)

 

DL: What new projects are you currently working on?


SJB: I am working on a few projects including:


A 6-Week virtual Book Club based on Creative Sparks for people who want to explore or build on their creative passions, that will feature readings, journal exercises, and a self-contained creative community which is scheduled to begin in late February.

 

A new podcast series entitled Creative Sparks Unleashed, which will feature book readings and interviews with artists and creatives that I interviewed for the book.  That will be featured in the Spark Your Creative Podcast which is hosted on SoundCloud and the video portion will be hosted on the Spark Your Creative Coaching YouTube page.

 

DL: Where can readers learn more about you and purchase your book(s)?


SJB: Readers can get more information here:

DL: Thanks so much for being here with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting to know you and your work.


SJB: I appreciate the opportunity to be spotlighted. Thank you.





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