Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a student of life, a Renaissance man so to say. I like to dabble in different areas, but nothing is worth sacrificing everything else for. Well, maybe music, but I’ll get back to that once my book is launched. This is the first book I’ve written and it definitely won’t be the last. In my free time I like to dance, cook, spend time in nature, play football, go to the gym, and travel whenever I get the chance.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
It’s called The Real Men Project. It was inspired by my own experience of being in a men’s support group or brotherhood as we call it. Coming together with your brothers and showing your vulnerability takes you deeper within yourself, because together you create a sacred space of presence that spurs personal growth. Giving each other honest feedback and challenging each other to become a stronger and realer version of yourself.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think so. I like to write while listening to classical music. Other times (like when I’m blogging) I may get so inspired by an event of documentary that I just have to write a piece even if it’s midnight. It’s better to immediately act upon inspiration I find.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Wayne Dyer is a great author and also must’ve been a great person though I never got the chance to meet him. David Deida is also a source of inspiration to me, the way he talks about spirituality and sexuality. From a fiction point of view I love Oscar Wilde. His witty and satiric style really speaks to me.
What are you working on now?
On getting my book out there! No use in writing if nobody reads it right? After this project I’ll be focusing on music for a while. I want to get a mixtape out and start on an album afterwards. That adventure might give me the inspiration for my next book, we’ll see. I’ll want to try my hand at fiction sometime in the future as well, but I’ll let that idea mature a bit more first.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
This is the first time I’ve written and promoted a book, but I’ve had help from a mentor who guided me through the process of self-publishing on Amazon. I like that every author nowadays has the opportunity to publish his or her own work without too many restrictions. I feel very fortunate to live in an age where the internet allows us to create and share without much hassle.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Create a solid outline for yourself and then just write. Don’t censor yourself. You can start the editing process after the first draft is completed. Until that time just let your fingers be creative without too much mental interference. You want to get into a flow of writing and that’s impossible if you interrupt yourself every sentence.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
To write first thing in the morning. Start your day with it and see it as a job just like any other. You have to churn in the hours of labor and before know it your book is done.
What are you reading now?
Alain de Botton – The Art of Travel
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’ve been neglecting my blog since I was busy with my book. So I’d like to get back into my blogging rhythm first while doing my music. The idea for my next book will present itself in due time I’m sure.
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 Bhavagad Gita (plenty of time to study), The Picture of Dorian Gray, and the Ultimate Survival Handbook.
Author Websites and Profiles
Steven de Bruijn Website
Steven de Bruijn Amazon Profile
Steven de Bruijn’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account