Cheryl Cherian's Blog
April 1, 2018
Note to Self featured in Khaas Baat News
"Note to Self: A Collection of Thoughts on Life" was featured in its first news article, by Khaas Baat. Check it out below:
"In this debut book, Tampa native and University of South Florida graduate Cheryl Cherian has put together some ramblings and random thoughts on essential life topics such as forgiveness, friends and foes, grief, kindness, identity, positive vibes, relationships, struggles, happiness, etc. “Most of these were little pieces of observations or advice to myself, which in a way were my inspiration,” she notes. Well, the notes could also be motivational for the reader. While admitting that forgiveness can be challenging, she writes, “… it’s what I strive for, for my own peace of mind … Most importantly however, we have to learn to forgive ourselves. Sometimes we are our own greatest critic.” On struggles in life: “Whatever might be your obstacle in life right now, if you challenge yourselves to overcome it, I guarantee that you can meet the countless obstacles to come with the memory of how you overcame this one.” On ‘what ifs”: “Live in the present rather than in fear of the future or what might be. Challenge yourself and watch your fears disappear.” On optimism: “Surround yourself with positive things and positive people, and exuding positive vibes yourself will be that much easier.” On getting real: “Be humble. Nobody likes someone who is boastful. Humility will take you a long way in every situation and with every person you encounter.” On happiness: “If you want happiness, we have to wish happiness for others as well … Happiness is everyone’s birthright. Go out and chase your happiness. Do the things you love that make you happy. Spend time with the people who make you smile. Spread the happiness. Life is too short to not live it to the fullest.” Kudos to Cherian, who is pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Services with a concentration in mental health counseling, for a simple to read and understand self-improvement book."
http://khaasbaat.com/apr2018/books.htm
"In this debut book, Tampa native and University of South Florida graduate Cheryl Cherian has put together some ramblings and random thoughts on essential life topics such as forgiveness, friends and foes, grief, kindness, identity, positive vibes, relationships, struggles, happiness, etc. “Most of these were little pieces of observations or advice to myself, which in a way were my inspiration,” she notes. Well, the notes could also be motivational for the reader. While admitting that forgiveness can be challenging, she writes, “… it’s what I strive for, for my own peace of mind … Most importantly however, we have to learn to forgive ourselves. Sometimes we are our own greatest critic.” On struggles in life: “Whatever might be your obstacle in life right now, if you challenge yourselves to overcome it, I guarantee that you can meet the countless obstacles to come with the memory of how you overcame this one.” On ‘what ifs”: “Live in the present rather than in fear of the future or what might be. Challenge yourself and watch your fears disappear.” On optimism: “Surround yourself with positive things and positive people, and exuding positive vibes yourself will be that much easier.” On getting real: “Be humble. Nobody likes someone who is boastful. Humility will take you a long way in every situation and with every person you encounter.” On happiness: “If you want happiness, we have to wish happiness for others as well … Happiness is everyone’s birthright. Go out and chase your happiness. Do the things you love that make you happy. Spend time with the people who make you smile. Spread the happiness. Life is too short to not live it to the fullest.” Kudos to Cherian, who is pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Services with a concentration in mental health counseling, for a simple to read and understand self-improvement book."
http://khaasbaat.com/apr2018/books.htm
March 8, 2018
Smashwords Interview
What's the story behind your latest book?
I decided to write "Note to Self: A Collection of Thoughts on Life" because I've seen and read so many self-improvement books, as have many I know. A lot of them look great and may effect change for a week or a month. I really wanted to get at something that readers can relate to. I didn't want to approach the book as a super-human, but rather someone who has flaws and is also in the lifelong process of self-improvement. With my understanding of psychology and mental health counseling, I applied my background and experiences to achieve that goal.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
The joy of writing is being able to express myself. In many countries around the world people, and women in particular, are given no voice. To be able to share my thoughts and work on such a public forum is a blessing and a privilege.
What is your writing process?
I basically write whatever comes to mind. Initially there is no organization whatsoever. Once I have something to work with I am able to see what it is that I am writing about and give it more of a direction and flow.
How do you approach cover design?
My cover design for my book was a picture I actually took myself at St. Petersburg beach in Florida. It's one of my favorite places for peace of mind and a great time. I thought it was only fitting as the cover for a book intended to give readers peace of mind.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in Tampa, FL. Though I am of Indian origin, it certainly fed my progressive thoughts and allowed me to take the stance on mental health that I have today.
When did you first start writing?
I have loved writing for as long as I can remember. I always saw writing as a creative space in which I could express myself. In contrast to my classmates, I especially loved open-ended essay prompts and to this day I still feel the same way.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
My inspiration has always been my family. My parents are incredibly hard-working and instilled in me values that I am proud of. My passion for the fields I am involved in and my drive to be an agent for change are my greatest motivators. When I experience a moment of low drive, I bring it back to God, and regain my inspiration and passion once again.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
I enjoy reading and bettering myself mostly through psychology-related articles. I love keeping up with advances in the field by perusing academic journals as well. I enjoy dancing and listening to music. Most of all, a good day in my book would be a day spent with friends and family.
What are you working on next?
Next, continuing on the theme of mental health, I really want to do something intended for a younger audience. What that will look like, is still a mystery.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
One of the earliest things I actually recall writing is a task my parents had given my sisters and I. The topic of the writing was "the most valuable thing in the world". Being young at the time, I wrote a whole paper on diamonds as the most valuable thing in the world. Even though find that so comical now, I still remember being so excited to write a persuasive piece, enjoying the writing process, and being so proud of my work!
I decided to write "Note to Self: A Collection of Thoughts on Life" because I've seen and read so many self-improvement books, as have many I know. A lot of them look great and may effect change for a week or a month. I really wanted to get at something that readers can relate to. I didn't want to approach the book as a super-human, but rather someone who has flaws and is also in the lifelong process of self-improvement. With my understanding of psychology and mental health counseling, I applied my background and experiences to achieve that goal.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
The joy of writing is being able to express myself. In many countries around the world people, and women in particular, are given no voice. To be able to share my thoughts and work on such a public forum is a blessing and a privilege.
What is your writing process?
I basically write whatever comes to mind. Initially there is no organization whatsoever. Once I have something to work with I am able to see what it is that I am writing about and give it more of a direction and flow.
How do you approach cover design?
My cover design for my book was a picture I actually took myself at St. Petersburg beach in Florida. It's one of my favorite places for peace of mind and a great time. I thought it was only fitting as the cover for a book intended to give readers peace of mind.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in Tampa, FL. Though I am of Indian origin, it certainly fed my progressive thoughts and allowed me to take the stance on mental health that I have today.
When did you first start writing?
I have loved writing for as long as I can remember. I always saw writing as a creative space in which I could express myself. In contrast to my classmates, I especially loved open-ended essay prompts and to this day I still feel the same way.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
My inspiration has always been my family. My parents are incredibly hard-working and instilled in me values that I am proud of. My passion for the fields I am involved in and my drive to be an agent for change are my greatest motivators. When I experience a moment of low drive, I bring it back to God, and regain my inspiration and passion once again.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
I enjoy reading and bettering myself mostly through psychology-related articles. I love keeping up with advances in the field by perusing academic journals as well. I enjoy dancing and listening to music. Most of all, a good day in my book would be a day spent with friends and family.
What are you working on next?
Next, continuing on the theme of mental health, I really want to do something intended for a younger audience. What that will look like, is still a mystery.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
One of the earliest things I actually recall writing is a task my parents had given my sisters and I. The topic of the writing was "the most valuable thing in the world". Being young at the time, I wrote a whole paper on diamonds as the most valuable thing in the world. Even though find that so comical now, I still remember being so excited to write a persuasive piece, enjoying the writing process, and being so proud of my work!
