What is on your desk?
There’s my computer – a netbook, so I can carry it around easily. However, that screen isn’t big enough to work on constantly, nor is the keyboard sufficient; hence the extras (what’s showing on the screen is the cover of my newest self-publication – I like to mix it up between publishing myself and getting a professional to do it). Under the mouse is my to-do list. Coffee cup – the must of all writers. Water bottle to keep hydrated. My Kindle, which I use to check check formatting on ebooks, and which I also get to read my manuscripts back to me to help with the editing process. And other bibs and bobs.
What shouldn’t be on your desk?
Actually, it’s looking pretty good at the moment. Sometimes I have mounds of paper and books all over the place, but because I’m not actively creating at the moment, I’m keeping on top of the rubbish.
Why does this area motivate you?
This is my workspace. When I’m sitting here, I’m here to work. I find it hard to just bludge in this space – I’ll leave and go muck around somewhere else rather than deal with the guilt of playing when I should be working.
Are there any items of particular significance?
On top of the computer is a Maori created fish-hook, which I got from New Zealand early this year. In Maori culture it stands for strength and resilience, amongst other things, and I touch it every day to remind myself of what’s needed to forge my career. And at the top of the screen I’ve attached two words – meditate to remind me that I feel better when I do, and fearless because I’m not going to get anywhere if I’m too afraid to take a chance.
How often do you spend in this workspace each day?
I work five days a week, and I spend 8-9 hours a day here. I take regular breaks, to stretch my body and hydrate, and take about an hour for lunch. Otherwise I’m here, beavering away.
I devour books, vampires and supernatural creatures are my genre of choice but over the past couple of years, I have broadened my horizons considerably. In a nutshell – I love to write! I love interacting with a diverse range of artists to bring you interviews. Perhaps we were perfect before – I LOVE WORDS!