Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am Helena Paschal, the founder and CEO of Correlations Professional Training & Development. I teach strategic event planning skills to professionals and business development to emerging entrepreneurs.
I have written four books:
Articulate: Our Words Shape Our World (New Release)
Event Planners Love Tacos
The Event Planner Book
Look at You Planning Your Own Wedding
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Articulate: Our Words Shape Our World
I was inspired to write the book when my daughter asked, “Mom, what are you going to do if you get COVID-19?” Hesitantly, I reponded that my brother would take care of her and I would stay in a hotel for two weeks to quarantine. That same night, we watched the musical “Hamilton” and it said we don’t get to decide who lives, dies, and tells our stories.
I decided to write my story. It started out as a collection of journal entries that I would want my daughter to know about me if something happens to me. After reviewing the journal, I decided that it may inspire and help other young adults who are interested in pursuing higher education.
Growing up, I was the “quiet girl” because I did not know my worth. Making myself small and silent seemed to cause less friction. Not using my voice allowed others to define me. Pleasing others became natural for me and I would go out of my way to protect the feelings of others while jeopardizing my own.
Articulate reveals my path of navigating blindly through higher education to earn my master’s degree. My journey through college empowered me to launch my own business. Now, I use my voice to mentor and train professionals throughout the U.S. first-generation college students will find this book most beneficial.
Aspiring college students who come from low-income backgrounds generally do not graduate college within six years. They are unfamiliar with the “hidden code” required to successfully graduate a four-year university. The “hidden code” consists of practicing good study skills and understanding higher education bureaucracy.
Students from low-income families often work part-time jobs to finance their education, which leaves them too preoccupied to crack the “hidden code.” Having a mentor can make a significant difference in the outcomes of first-generation students who do not have family members to guide them through college life. This book serves as a college coach.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m not sure if it’s unusual but I must print the entire manuscript in order to review and edit the book. I can’t do it by looking at it on the computer screen. I am old fashioned and I need the book in my hand to write it, delete, edit, rewrite, etc. The book ends up being printed a dozen times before I am satisfied with the final draft.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I am influenced by Dale Carnegie books. My favorite is “How to Win Friends & Influence People.” I enjoy inspirational stories with practical advice. My favorite book is “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill. I also enjoy books by Terry McMillan.
What are you working on now?
Now, I am working on a journal/planner. A no content book. I love writing lists and checking things off my to-do list and I believe it will be helpful for others. I am also working to condense my book into a 30-60 minute motivational speech to graduating seniors in high school and incoming freshmen in college.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I prefer to offer preorders on my website at least 4-6 weeks before the book releases. Afterward, I run paid promotions on Amazon. I also break the book down with practical advice to deliver on YouTube for ongoing sales.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes, I would advise new authors to create an outline and to set a word count goal. It is also extremely important to keep the reader in mind when you are writing the book. My top advice is to hire an editor.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice is NOT to promote your book on social media all day to your friends and family. You will be disappointed with your sales. It’s important to get your book in front of your targeted readers. This may mean getting out of your comfort zone and doing speaking engagements and interviews.
What are you reading now?
Currently, I am reading Black Women as Cultural Readers by Jacqueline Bobo. Since my book is a memoir, I am now interested in reading other memoirs. I am listening to the memoir of A Promised Land by Barack Obama and the Mariah Carey Memoir on audible.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Since my book Articulate is designed to help first-generation college students successfully graduate college. I would like to write a book to help first time entrepreneurs by sharing my failures and victories in a relatable story.
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?
The Bible, A Promised Land, Becoming, and Articulate.
Author Websites and Profiles
Helena Paschal Website
Helena Paschal Author Profile on Smashwords