A Hypnotic Talk With Cynthia Copenhaver
Today I welcome Cynthia Copenhaver to my blog. Cynthia is a certified NLP Hypnotist Life Coach and Author residing in South Haven, Michigan. She is also the owner of Creative Conscious Concepts and shares helpful hints, tips, and techniques through her online Creative Concepts blog. Cynthia was my guest on The Book Junkies Interview Livecast on BTR, showdate 2/24/2012. Listen to that amazing interview here:
When did you decide to get serious about writing?
Actually, I was serious about writing when I was 15 years old. I would laboriously type out my manuscripts on my typewriter and submit them to multiple traditional publishers over and over again. Only a few years ago, I was amazed to find one of these old yellow-stained manuscripts my mom had kept in storage. I always continued to write as a creative outlet for myself. Finding that old manuscript and hearing others encouragement that I should share my life experiences and lessons with others basically jumpstarted setting a goal plan for myself. Now, I have been able to seriously share my writing with others within this past year.
Which writers have inspired and influenced you?
I am sure that I have been influenced and inspired by many writers, but honestly, I cannot think of one specific individual. I have always been a voracious reader, willing to read and absorb all genres of books. Consciously, my writing is uniquely me, but certainly, subconsciously I draw upon all that I have read throughout my life.
Share some information about your books with us:
Everyone experiences situations that cause stress or have anxious thoughts. Stress is usually a normal function of everyday living. Only when you take it to excessive levels in your life, does it become a problem. I can completely understand 'out of control' stress; I used to suffer from panic attacks myself. It is a relief to realize you are not crazy and then learn how you actually can take control of your life.
In Stop Stress and Anxiety Now, I wanted to share how to identify stress in your life, understanding your own stress and educate you to regain control. Many of us aren't even aware what the difference is between stress, anxiety, panic attacks, or depression.
This understanding and awareness is brought about through a few simple to follow exercises or quizzes that are included in the book. Also, you are made more aware of what tools and resources you already have and how to use them. Not just one specific approach, but multiple concepts. This ensures that the reader will find compatible techniques that work. Each technique has its own chapter, so the reader can easily locate their favourite techniques. There are many techniques, tips and hints within this easy guide all with easy to understand instructions. No long boring medical jargon or over-complicated steps that will put you to sleep. It truly is a 'Self' help book that puts you back in control.
What started you on the journey to write your books?
Honestly, this book was born when I was creating a chapter on stress management in my first book: The EZ Guide to Successfully Achieving Your Goals. I had so many inspirations flooding out of me onto my keyboard, I knew there was more than a chapter there. It was really difficult to keep my excitement at that point, I needed to complete my first book, but I had this other book about stress wanting to be told.
I realized that many books out there are not really easy guides or they are so full of jargon, you can't understand what is expected of you. That is added stress right there! I wanted to write an easy to understand guide that will actually help someone understand the how, what, why, and give them back control.
How would you describe your literary voice and what do you think makes it unique?
DIY creative style! I am enthusiastic about individuals becoming aware that they are more creative, resourceful, and in control, than they realize. I believe that comes out in my writing. I understand that what worked for me or another may not work exactly for you…we all are unique. This perspective shines through in my writing.
What genre do you most love to read?
Nowadays, my reading still varies greatly. Reading is great for relaxing and easing stress in your life. I enjoy mysteries, sci-fi, historical, some romance, suspense, and yes, even self-help and How to books and magazines.
What does writing do for you, personally? How does it make you feel?
Personally, it is a creative vent for my internal voice. When I sit down and write, the words are not all jumbled up inside my head. They take form before me on the screen or on paper. This not only allows me to make more sense of my thoughts, but then I don't scare my family by getting lost in my thoughts. Seriously, being an epileptic, if I become silent and stare for too long…my family freaks! It not only makes me feel relieved to get it all out of my head, but my family are pretty relieved too. Seriously, though, I have experienced and overcome many challenges in my life. Being able to share and help others with what I have learned really makes me feel like those challenges were worth the lessons.
What new projects are you currently working on?
I think this last book's inspiration spoiled me. I currently have a blog on my website and many of my postings often inspire my next book project. I always know for sure, when my fingers will not stop typing. I actually have been adding a voice to my message of encouraging others to take control of their lives. I had joined Toastmasters last year to learn how to really give my words a voice. I have been creatively adding speech writing to my newest projects.
I have been encouraged to share more of my own experiences in my writing and I must admit I am tossing around the idea of victim mentality in our society. It took me nearly 40 years to learn that I have control over my life decisions. I didn't need to continue to be a hapless victim swept up in the waves of circumstance. It's a tough topic, but one that others can learn from and break their own victim cycle.
What is the story you remember best from childhood, and does it still influence your writing today?
'Casey the Caterpillar' and even though it was never published and is a children's story, it does still influence me today. Not just my writing, but even my perspective. Just as the character, Casey, faced many challenges with his awkward body, then dealing with the tight cocoon…with time he understood…he grew wings and flew high into the sky, knowing he could go wherever he wanted now.
Where do you see yourself as a writer five years from now?
Life continues to teach me lessons every day and I am confident that I will be sharing whatever I learn with you. I can honestly say that I will continue to become more motivational, inspirational, and experienced, as a writer.
Is there anyone you'd like to give a shout out to?
Yes, I would like to give a big gratitude of appreciation to Tony Berkman and Angie Alaniz for their valuable input and feedback in previewing the proof of this book before it went to print. Tony had really helped me be able to make sure that my writing would assist all my readers no matter their gender. At the time, I had no idea that they were also involved with a project with Tony Robbins. I really am grateful for them both volunteering their personal time.
Any last words for our readers?
Realize that you have everything you need within yourself that will assist you in taking control of your life. You may not even be aware that you are on top of things because you believe it is so out of hand. Even so, the tools are at this time there! You just need to become more aware of your own resources and use them. I am happy to share what I have learned with you. You can find more specific information, helpful tips, downloads, and links, for a variety of personal development and awareness subjects on my website and blog.
Cynthia A. Copenhaver is a certified NLP Hypnotist Life Coach and Author residing in South Haven, Michigan. She is also the owner of Creative Conscious Concepts and shares helpful hints, tips, and techniques through her online Creative Concepts blog.
"It was an easy choice for me to decide that my newest book 'Stop Stress and Anxiety Now' would be the most valuable and beneficial to others. By learning how to manage and take control of stress and anxiety, I have found purpose in my own life. I want to be able to share with others how they can easily achieve the successful lives that they desire. Stress can seem so overwhelming to many, but you can easily learn how to take control and make it work for you instead of against you."
