Interview with Author Tyreek Houston
Hello Author Author Tyreek Houston! Tell us something about yourself?
I’m a researcher, author and entrepreneur. I’m a whole foods, self-care, and fitness and wellness advocate. I love to explore and experience all of the beautiful things that life has to offer. In my opinion, taking risks is a part of life, and if you don’t take any risks, then you limit your ability to experience what life has to offer.
Your book, “Curiosity Didn’t Kill The Cat. ”, was published recently. To begin with, could you tell those who don’t know much about the book?
Curiosity Didn’t Kill The Cat is really a self-help book. In the beginning, I take a deep dive into the social norms of that old saying, what it means, and how it’s problematic by illuminating the areas of life it impacts, particularly our perception towards learning. After that’s address, I take a deep dive into my life and use insightful stories to show my readers how to use curiosity and emotional intelligence to reach any goal, build a desire to learn, and manifest their dreams.
What inspired your debut?
Family and legacy. I’ve always inspired people in more ways than I can count, even as a young child. As I look back and reflect on my life, I’ve accomplished some amazing things. Things people ask me about all the time and seek guidance for. I’ve always wanted to leave a positive impact on the world, and a book is one of the most simple, tangible, and long lasting things anyone can provide to reach the masses and provide useful information. I also don’t come from a rich or wealthy family. I’ve seen my family members work countless days, sometimes even nights, while on the other spectrum I see millionaires with the time and financial freedom I desire. I want to break the cycle of working for the rest of your life for my family, and it all starts with me, a trailblazer and first generation college graduate.
What is your process of writing a book?
The first thing I think anyone can do to write a book is to get everything out of their head and put it on paper or type it up. Once you’re done, you have a rough draft manuscript. After that, look for a copywriter and have them edit your manuscript. It’s their job to professionally edit and adjust your writing to your tone and style. After that, the last thing you want to do is find a designer that can design both the interior and exterior of your book, and then look for a publishing source. Amazon is really friendly when it comes to publishing. That’s where I started out.
What book are you planning to write next?
As a user experience researcher in tech, I’ve come to understand that there is a lot of interest from my community to break into this growing field. I can honestly say it’s not easy to do, but I want to help make that journey easy. I want to shorten the journey I had breaking into this industry for others, and I know if I use my research skills to interview other researchers of color, we can provide a shared collection of tips and pathways to consider for others that want to follow. I’m really excited to work on that. So that’s what I’m working on next.
Finally, what advice do you have for aspiring authors?
Go for it! It doesn’t have to be perfect to start. You’re not a professional writer, but you are the expert of your own story. As long as you can pull that story out of your head, leave the editing and designing to those professionals. You can’t be a professional at everything, but you can have a team of professionals to support you. The most important thing to do is to just put everything down on paper or type it up.
Where can our readers find you online?
Instagram: @reekthecreative
Twitter: @reekthecreative
Clubhouse: reekthecreative