Derick Payne Interview

Q. Can you tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to become a writer?

Ans. I grew up in a turbulent environment, facing many personal challenges that shaped my perspective on life. Writing became a way to process these experiences and better understand the human mind. My inspiration for writing, mainly Eating Brains: Getting Out of Your Own Head, came from watching my youngest daughter struggle with self-doubt and fear. Encouraging her to overcome these obstacles made me realise I wanted to share my insights with others, helping them break free from their mental barriers and find strength in their challenges.

Q. What genre(s) do you primarily write in, and what draws you to that particular genre?

Ans. I primarily write in the self-help and personal development genre. I'm drawn to this genre because it allows me to share practical strategies and insights that can genuinely transform people's lives. My work focuses on mental resilience, self-reflection, and overcoming internal obstacles—topics that resonate deeply with my experiences. Writing in this genre gives me a platform to help others navigate their inner battles, break free from limiting beliefs, and discover their true potential.

Q. What is your favorite book, and what about it resonates with you the most?

Ans. One of my favourite books is Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl. Frankl's exploration of finding purpose resonates with me the most, even in the face of immense suffering. His belief that we can choose our attitude in any circumstance aligns closely with the themes in my writing. Like Frankl, I believe in the power of resilience and the importance of confronting and overcoming our inner struggles. His book is a profound reminder that we can shape our own stories, no matter how difficult the journey.

Q. Who is your favorite author, and how have they influenced your writing?

Ans. My favourite author is Brené Brown. Her work on vulnerability, courage, and resilience has profoundly influenced my writing. Brown’s ability to blend research with personal storytelling resonates with me, as it mirrors my approach in Eating Brains: Getting Out of Your Own Head. She has shown me the importance of being authentic and open in sharing personal experiences, as these are often the most powerful ways to connect with readers and inspire change. Her emphasis on embracing imperfection and facing our inner challenges head-on has deeply shaped the themes I explore in my own work.

Q. How do you balance writing with other aspects of your life, such as work, family, or hobbies?

Ans. Balancing writing with work, family, and other responsibilities can be challenging, but I've found it essential to establish a routine and set clear priorities. My family is incredibly important to me, and spending quality time with them is non-negotiable. I dedicate specific hours each day to writing, usually early in the morning or late at night when the house is quiet. This helps me maintain focus and keep my creativity flowing. Outside of writing, I also make time for hobbies that recharge me, like reading and hiking, which are great sources of inspiration. It's all about finding a rhythm that works and staying flexible when life throws curveballs.

Q. How do you show appreciation and love to your followers and readers? Do you actively engage with them on social media or through other means?

Ans. I deeply appreciate my readers and followers, and I prioritise engaging with them actively. I regularly connect through social media, sharing insights, updates, and reflections related to my work and the themes in my book. I also enjoy responding to comments and messages, as it allows me to have meaningful conversations and learn from their experiences. Additionally, I host live Q&A sessions and book discussions to create a space where readers can ask questions, share their thoughts, and feel part of a community. My readers are a constant source of inspiration, and I want them to know how much their support means to me.

Q. What do you enjoy most about being an author, and what keeps you motivated to continue writing?

Ans. What I enjoy most about being an author is connecting with readers deeply and personally. Writing allows me to share my experiences and insights, and it’s gratifying to know that my words can help someone else navigate their own challenges or see the world in a new light. The feedback I receive keeps me motivated from readers who tell me how much my work has impacted their lives. Knowing that my writing can make a difference is a powerful incentive to keep going, and it pushes me to explore new ideas and perspectives to share with my audience.

Q. Have you ever faced writer's block, and if so, how do you overcome it?

Ans. Yes, I’ve definitely faced writer’s block—it’s a natural part of the writing process. When it happens, I try not to get frustrated. Instead, I take it as a sign that I need to step back and recharge. I often walk, spend time with my family, or engage in activities that inspire me, like reading or listening to music. Sometimes, changing my environment or writing something completely different helps to get the creative juices flowing again. I also remind myself that perfection isn’t the goal—it is essential to keep writing, even if it’s not perfect at first. It’s about showing up consistently and being open to where the process takes you.

Q. Can you share any interesting or funny anecdotes from your writing journey?

Ans. Sure, one story that always makes me chuckle happened while I was working on Eating Brains: Getting Out of Your Own Head. I was deep into writing about overcoming mental obstacles and had the idea to incorporate personal reflections into the narrative. I got so caught up in it that I spent the entire night writing without sleep, fueled by too much coffee. The next day, my wife read the draft and started laughing—not because it was bad, but because she noticed I had unintentionally turned the chapter into my journal! Instead of writing for the reader, I poured out my thoughts and feelings. It was a great lesson in staying focused on the audience and balancing personal insight with universal appeal. Plus, I learned that a good night’s sleep is sometimes the best writing tool!

Q. What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are just starting their writing journey?

Ans. My advice to aspiring authors is to write with authenticity and persistence. Don’t worry about perfecting it on the first try—focus on getting your thoughts and ideas down on paper. Writing is a process, and the first draft is just the beginning. Also, don't be afraid to write about what truly matters to you, even if it feels personal or vulnerable. That authenticity is what will resonate with your readers. Lastly, stay committed to your writing, even on the days when it feels tough. Consistency is key; every word you write is a step forward in your journey. Remember, everyone has a unique story to tell, and the world needs yours.

Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or works in progress that you'd like to share with your readers?

Ans. Yes, I’m excited to share that I’m working on a new book that delves deeper into the themes of mental resilience and overcoming personal obstacles. This time, I'm exploring how we can build mental fortitude through everyday practices and storytelling from real-life experiences, not just my own but from people who have faced incredible challenges and come out stronger on the other side. I'm also considering starting a podcast where I can engage more directly with readers, share insights, and discuss topics from the book in more detail. Stay tuned—there's a lot more to come!

Q. Finally, what are your goals and aspirations as a writer? Where do you see yourself and your writing career in the future?

Ans. My primary goal as a writer is to continue inspiring and empowering people through my work. I hope to reach a wider audience with my books and help readers understand that they can overcome their internal struggles and achieve personal growth. In the future, I see myself expanding into different formats, like podcasts or workshops, to connect with readers more personally. I also want to explore new themes and ideas, keeping my writing fresh and impactful. Ultimately, I want to build a body of work that resonates with people long after they’ve read the last page and motivates them to embark on their journey of self-discovery and resilience.