In a world where fantasy and storytelling can ignite the imagination, Theresa Maria Villarreal stands out as a beacon of creativity. Her “Adventures in Oculus” series invites young readers on extraordinary journeys, reflecting her own passions as a teacher and mother. Theresa’s work not only entertains but also inspires courage and belief in the impossible. With a profound influence from literary greats like C.S. Lewis, her writing intertwines adventure with meaningful themes. Join us as we explore her journey, the challenges she faces in balancing multiple projects, and the heartfelt connections she makes through storytelling. Through her experiences, Theresa reminds us of the magic that comes from perseverance and the power of a good story.
- What inspired you to create the “Adventures in Oculus” series, and how does it reflect your personal experiences or passions?
The “Adventures in Oculus” series was born from my love for fantasy and the magic of storytelling, which has always been a significant part of my life. Growing up, I was captivated by tales of hidden worlds and extraordinary adventures, and this series is my way of bringing those dreams to life. The characters and settings are often inspired by my experiences as a teacher and a mother, where I’ve seen firsthand how imagination can spark learning and growth in children. I wanted to create a world where young readers could see themselves, find courage, and believe in the impossible. - How does your writing draw from the style of C.S. Lewis, and what elements of his work do you find most influential?
C.S. Lewis has always been a profound influence on my writing. His ability to weave deep moral and philosophical questions into accessible, enchanting narratives is something I strive to emulate. Like Lewis, I aim to create stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering readers a sense of wonder and a glimpse into larger truths. His use of allegory and the way he constructs otherworldly realms that feel both familiar and strange have inspired the world-building in “Adventures in Oculus.” - Can you share a bit about your journey as a writer over the past 12 years? How has your writing evolved?
Over the past 12 years, my writing has evolved significantly. I began with short stories and gradually worked my way into longer narratives, learning the importance of structure and pacing. Early on, I was more focused on the mechanics of writing, but as I gained confidence, I began to explore deeper themes and character development. My style has become more refined, and I’ve learned to trust my voice. The feedback from beta groups has been invaluable in shaping my work, providing me with insights that helped me refine my stories and better connect with my audience. - What challenges have you faced in balancing your writing with running a business and starting a podcast?
Balancing writing with running a business and starting a podcast has been challenging, especially when it comes to time management. Each endeavor requires a different set of skills and focus, and it can be difficult to switch between them. However, I’ve learned to compartmentalize my tasks and prioritize based on deadlines and the energy each project demands. There have been times when I’ve had to step back from one area to focus on another, but I’ve come to see these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. - How do you manage to juggle multiple projects, and what strategies have you found effective for staying organized and motivated?
Juggling multiple projects requires a lot of organization and a clear sense of priorities. I rely heavily on detailed to-do lists, calendars, and project management tools to keep everything on track. I also set specific goals for each day and break down larger tasks into manageable steps. Staying motivated comes from my passion for what I do; seeing progress, no matter how small, keeps me going. Additionally, I’ve learned to be flexible and forgiving with myself, understanding that sometimes things don’t go as planned, and that’s okay. - How has your work on “Adventures in Oculus” impacted your mental health, and what self-care practices do you rely on?
Working on “Adventures in Oculus” has been both a source of immense joy and can be demanding. To maintain my mental health, I practice mindfulness and make sure to take breaks when needed. I also find comfort in connecting with nature, whether it’s through gardening or simply taking a walk. These activities help me recharge and return to my work with renewed energy and focus. - Can you describe a particularly challenging moment in your writing or creative career, and how you overcame it?
One particularly challenging moment was when I faced a severe case of writer’s block during the early stages of “Adventures in Oculus.” I was struggling to make progress and feeling stuck. To overcome this, I took a step back and allowed myself to write without judgment, focusing on the joy of storytelling rather than perfection. I also sought feedback from trusted peers, which helped me gain perspective and move forward with renewed confidence and clarity. - How do you handle creative burnout or periods of low inspiration, especially when managing multiple projects?
When I encounter creative burnout, I find that stepping away from writing and immersing myself in cooking helps rejuvenate my inspiration. Cooking is a creative outlet that allows me to experiment with flavors and techniques, offering a different kind of fulfillment. I even have a cooking channel on YouTube where I share recipes and cooking tips, which provides a refreshing break from the writing process. Engaging in this other form of creativity helps me clear my mind and return to my projects with renewed energy and focus. - What role does storytelling play in your life beyond the written page, and how do you incorporate your personal experiences into your work?
Storytelling is central to my life, extending far beyond the written page. It’s how I connect with others, share my values, and explore different perspectives. My personal experiences, especially as a teacher and mother, deeply influence my writing. The challenges and triumphs I’ve faced often find their way into my stories, allowing me to create characters and situations that resonate with readers on a personal level. - How do you find time for yourself amidst your busy schedule, and what activities help you recharge?
Finding time for myself is essential, and I make it a priority. I carve out moments in the day for activities that help me recharge, like deep cleaning my house on Mondays, gardening, or spending time with my family. These activities provide a sense of balance and allow me to return to my work with a clear mind and renewed energy. - What advice would you give to other women who are trying to balance multiple creative or professional pursuits?
My advice to other women balancing multiple creative or professional pursuits is to be kind to themselves and recognize that it’s okay to ask for help. Setting realistic goals and establishing boundaries is crucial. It’s also important to stay connected to your passion—remember why you started in the first place. Don’t be afraid to take breaks and delegate tasks when necessary. Balancing different roles is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding when you find a rhythm that works for you. - Can you share an experience where your writing or creative work significantly affected someone else or made a difference in their life?
One of the most rewarding experiences was when a young reader wrote to me about how “Adventures in Oculus” helped them through a tough time. They found comfort and escape in the story, and it inspired them to start writing their own tales. Knowing that my work had a positive impact on someone else’s life was incredibly fulfilling and reminded me of the power of storytelling. - What are the most rewarding aspects of your work, and how do you stay connected to those positive outcomes?
The most rewarding aspect of my work is seeing the joy and inspiration it brings to others, especially young readers. I stay connected to these positive outcomes by engaging with my audience through social media, book signings, and events. Hearing feedback and knowing that my stories have touched someone’s life keeps me motivated and passionate about what I do. - How do you stay resilient in the face of setbacks or challenges related to your writing and business endeavors?
Resilience is deeply rooted in my background. I come from strong stock on my mom’s side of the family, where the women are strong, determined, and true go-getters. This legacy has instilled in me the importance of perseverance and the belief that I can overcome any obstacle. I draw strength from this heritage, along with self-belief, support from my loved ones, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. I’ve faced challenges along the way, but I try to view them as opportunities for growth. Staying focused on my long-term goals and remembering why I started helps me push through difficult times. I also find it helpful to celebrate small victories, which keeps my spirits up even when things don’t go as planned. - What are your future goals for “Adventures in Oculus” and your other projects, and how do you plan to continue growing as a writer and creator?
My future goals for “Adventures in Oculus” include expanding the series and reaching a broader audience. I’m also excited about growing my podcast, The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, which will debut in the spring of 2025. Additionally, I’m currently working on a coloring book series, with several coloring books already available. To continue growing as a writer and creator, I plan to keep challenging myself with new projects, learning from others in the industry, and staying open to new ideas and experiences. Readers can find my books on Amazon, Goodreads, and my website, www.adventuresinoculus.com. For updates on the podcast, visit https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/.
