Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Ashley Sauls and I have a passion for writing. At an early age, I found joy at my grandparent’s house on their typewriter. I would sit in the den typing away at short stories, poems, songs or anything else that came to mind. I’ve always loved getting to inspire people through my writing and it wasn’t until recently that I pursued this passion further. Morning Motivation is the first in a series of devotionals and my first official project. However, I have served as an editor for over 20 projects for other writers and professionals.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of the first devotional book is “Morning Motivation.” The name was derived from Psalm 30:5(a), which says that “Weeping may endure for a season, but joy comes in the morning.” The devotional was written at a time where I was asking, “Where is the good that you promised me Lord.” From internal challenges to facing challenging people and situations, my writing was a therapeutic way to shift my thinking from what was going wrong to what was going right. Through writing this project, I wanted to inspire those who needed to refocus their thinking also . I wanted this audience to know that the Word of God provides the answers to each of life’s challenges and that through application, they can see a brighter day ahead. I shared the project prior to publishing with my parents and according to them “mission accomplished.”
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
When most people are trying to get sleep, I love to write in the early morning hours. My peak time is 3 AM! All is quiet and I can really focus on the message I am trying to convey to my readers. To make for the best writing, I find my favorite music that varies from gospel, to classical or instrumental music. I also have my favorite writing gear that I must have to work, such as my writing blanket, writing pen, and dedicated writing journal. When these items are in place, I’m good to go.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My favorite devotional is Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. Every time I read the devotional it feels like the Lord is speaking directly to my experience for the day. In writing Morning Motivation, I wanted to give readers this same experience through a 31 day devotional.
I also find inspiration from authors, such as Joyce Meyers and Joel Osteen. People need to know that there is hope and how to access this hope through the Word of God. I love that their approach is very down to earth and is not overly complicated.
Other authors that inspire me are Dr. Myles Munroe, Dr. Cindy Trimm, Bishop T.D. Jakes and Bishop Tudor Bismark. I am an avid reader, so I have gleaned wisdom from many different avenues.
What are you working on now?
I am working on a new project that will be released between March/April 2014. This book will begin my training series for ministries. Once the project is available, I will be releasing more details about what can be expected from this project.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have found the best way to engage readers is by using my personal and business Facebook page. I find it important as an author to nurture relationships, so this is where many of my readers are. For this project, I shared brief quotes I wanted to expound upon further in the book. Based on the reception, I knew what had been presented would resonate with my readers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My best advice for new authors is not to stop mid-stream, because you feel that your project is not “good enough.” Especially when God leads you to write a book, He has a specific purpose in mind. There is someone who needs to hear the wisdom and insight you have been given. However, they cannot receive it if you do not make the wisdom available. Be precise, be through in your review, make sure you put forth the best project you can, but make sure to leave the results to God.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I heard might come as a surprise to some, but that “there is no perfect book.” I am prone to perfectionism and have a difficult time releasing something until it is “perfect.” I finally found peace from this elusive concept by realizing that if I waited until “I” felt it was perfect, it would never be released. I believe “Morning Motivation” is the best first edition release. God will continue to perfect the project as I go along and I am receptive to this part of the process.
What are you reading now?
I am reading Approval Addiction by Joyce Meyer. It is freeing to know that you will never please everyone and that your focus should be on pleasing God. I am also finishing Don’t Miss Your Moment by Judy Jacobs. I am known for reading more than one book at once, but I love reading.
What’s next for you as a writer?
For 2014, I will unveil the Morning Motivation platinum package. It is my desire to go beyond writing a book to help people to understand “how” to apply the wisdom in this devotional. The Morning Motivation package will be available as a web based program, which will include personalized teleconferences, inspirational podcasts, an exclusive newsletter and much more. I am also in the process of finishing another publishing project, where I get to utilize my strategist cap. You will be hearing more about this project when it is released in March/April 2014.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
If I were stranded on a desert island, I would have to have my Bible with me. It reveals truth that is fresh every morning. I would also have to bring The Principles and Power of Vision by Dr. Myles Munroe, Commanding Your Morning by Dr. Cindy Trimm, and Jesus Calling by Sarah Young.
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