Ivette Smith
AUTHOR

Ivette Smith

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My goal as a writer is to inspire and build connections through the power of words. Writing allows me to share my journey, experiences, and insights in a way that fosters understanding and inspires growth. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, I consider New York City my starting point in many ways, but today, I call a small town in Texas home. My life has been a tapestry of diverse experiences, and the question, "Where are you from?" has always been a complex one for me. This complexity reflects the many places, people, and cultures that have shaped my identity over the years. My story is deeply intertwined with a rewarding 23-year career in the U.S. Air Force. Serving in the military was both a privilege and a formative chapter in my life. It gave me the opportunity to live in Europe for 15 years, an experience that enriched my perspective and broadened my understanding of the world. Each new city and country added another layer to my identity, allowing me to grow in ways I never imagined. Since retiring in 2008, I have embraced new passions and challenges, including pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and currently working toward a Master’s in Data Science. For as long as I can remember, I have been an avid reader. Stories have always fascinated me, serving as windows into different lives, worlds, and ideas. Naturally, this love of reading evolved into a love of storytelling. Writing became a meaningful outlet for me, especially during a period of convalescence following an injury and surgery. At that time, writing was not just an activity; it was a way to process my thoughts and share insights that might help others overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. When it comes to my writing process, I am meticulous in planning. I enjoy creating detailed outlines and conducting thorough research to ensure my work is both thoughtful and impactful. However, when it comes time to write, I let my words flow from the heart. This balance of preparation and intuition allows me to convey my thoughts authentically and effectively. My journey as a writer began with my first two books, which were concise yet packed with practical information and personal insights. These early works marked the beginning of a fulfilling creative journey. Over time, my writing has grown in depth and resonance. My most recent book required me to delve deeply into my own experiences, mining my life for the lessons and guidance I wanted to share with readers. While self-publishing has posed challenges—particularly the financial aspect—I have learned to navigate the process, gaining valuable knowledge and skills with each project. Beyond writing, I have a wide array of interests that keep my creativity and curiosity alive. Gardening is one of my favorite pastimes, offering a sense of peace and connection to nature. Crafting is another passion, allowing me to express myself in tangible and artistic ways. I also dedicate time to my community, participating in initiatives that promote mental health awareness and provide support to those in need. These activities are a source of fulfillment and align with my desire to contribute positively to the world. While my current focus as a writer is on non-fiction, I harbor a long-standing dream of exploring the fantasy genre someday. Magic, mystery, and the boundless creativity of fantasy worlds have always captivated me. I draw inspiration from authors like Piers Anthony, R.A. Salvatore, and Raymond Feist, whose works have sparked my imagination and fueled my love for storytelling. Though I am not yet ready to venture into this genre, the idea of crafting fantastical worlds and characters remains a cherished aspiration. At its core, my writing explores themes that are deeply personal and universally resonant—resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness. These themes reflect my own journey and the lessons I have learned along the way. I hope to inspire readers to reflect on life’s complexities, find strength in their own experiences, and discover meaning and fulfillment. In many ways, writing is more than a passion for me—it is a way of life. It connects me with others, allows me to share my story, and helps me continuously grow as a person. I am grateful for every step of this journey and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Whether through my books, community involvement, or future ventures into new genres, I aim to leave a lasting impact that inspires and uplifts those who engage with my work. Writing is not just about putting words on a page; it is about forging connections, sparking imagination, and making a difference in the lives of others.
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