Alyshia Hull is a journalist and future author. She has been published with AdWeek, Girls’ Life, Rachael Ray, Huffpost and more. She also currently works as an editorial fellow for Business Insider. Alyshia lives in Upstate New York with her dog Taco.

You are an journalist, but is it your day job? It’s my dream to become a traditionally published author. I am working with a literary agent with a couple projects in submission. Additionally, I work as a journalist. Right now, I work with Business Insider – which I love. I spend my time interviewing others and telling their stories.

Did you always want to be an author? I have always wanted to be an author and journalist. Even as a kid writing was a huge part of my life, and how I enjoyed spending my time. Then after going to school for journalism, I signed with my agent and also began working as a professional writer.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in your professional industry? If your path as a writer is anything like mine you might get knocked down a few times, but that is okay! Every rejection letter, every critique, and every moment of self-doubt is an opportunity to learn and get better. You might not get the first agent you submit to, but in the end I hope you sign with the agent who believes in you most. And that goes for all things – the editor who brings you on, the employer who hires you, the writing program you join, it’s important to find the right fit. Don’t get discouraged when you hear the word no, instead just know you’re getting closer to a yes.

How do you handle setbacks and criticism? I’m still learning this. Criticism can be tough  – but, I have learned to only take criticism from those I’d go to for advice. Those I work with want me to do my absolute best, and they see blind spots that I don’t always see. With that said I think delivery is important and giving myself grace is, too. Setbacks can also be hard but they’re a part of the process. I won’t get everything on the first try and that is okay.

Being an author, writer, photographer, and journalist today is like running a business. How do you manage all your publicity, social media and keep your engagement up with readers? Keeping up with my writing, old projects, new projects and social media too – is a lot, but I remember the day I dreamed of being here. I prayed for this, haha. When it comes to social media, I don’t think you need to do everything. Instead when I get overwhelmed I remind myself it’s better to pour into a few things well, then absolutely everything.

How do you hold yourself accountable and achieve the goals that you set forth? Everyday I write down my top goals as if I have already achieved them. To me it’s motivating, but it’s also a good reminder of where I am headed. Additionally, I ask myself what is one thing I can do today to get myself closer to my goals – then, I go from there.

How do you structure your day and make time for writing? As a journalist, I have set hours of the day that I am writing, but I try to do the same thing with my personal projects, too. I carve out time each day and try very hard to make it my priority.

What do you find most fulfilling in the career that you’ve chosen? When I interview someone and they’re genuinely excited to see their story and their work out there. I get excited too – when one of my projects is brought to life, so when I get to see that genuine, happy expression roll across their face, it’s the best feeling.

What book uplifts you? I love self help books and young adult fiction. To name a few Girl Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis, Stealing Infinity by Alyson Noel, and Where The Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein have all impacted my life for the better.

Anything else you’d like to share? No matter where your journey takes you, I’m really proud of you for putting yourself out there.

Connect with Alyshia via her website: alyshiahull.com

Images Courtesy of Alyshia Hull