Yvette Way’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and self-discovery. As a breast cancer survivor and someone living with ESRD, Yvette has transformed her personal challenges into a source of inspiration for others. Her book, You Are So… A Self Awareness Journal, reflects her deep understanding of how external perceptions can obscure our true selves. Through her candid reflections and creative endeavors, Yvette encourages readers to peel back the layers of external judgments and reconnect with their authentic selves. In this interview, she shares the profound lessons learned from her health journey, her dedication to writing, and the practices that help her maintain a positive outlook. Yvette’s story is a beacon of hope and empowerment for anyone navigating their own struggles while pursuing their passions.
- What inspired you to create “You Are So… A Self Awareness Journal”?
I created You Are So… A Self Awareness Journal because of the experiences I had in life. I listened to the things people said to me and told me and got lost in some of them. In finding me these last few years I realized a lot of what people said about me was not who I am. I know I’m not alone. Shortly after I got the hard copy the Amanda Seales with Shannon Sharpe came out and they were discussing exactly that people saying you’re so this and so that. It’s my hope that someone will come out of reading and completing the journal realizing who and what they really are. - Can you share a bit about your journey with breast cancer and how it has influenced your work?
My journey with breast cancer made me realize life is short and to live life. I decided not to wait for others. If I want to do something or go somewhere do it. It impacted my writing because it got me back into it. I retired from my job and decided I would pick up my writings and finish them. - How has living with ESRD impacted your creative process and personal life?
At first I tried to hide my diagnosis. I would wear long sleeves, try to hide my access. I thought people would look at me differently. I am single. I was also cautious about dating and what a potential partner would think about it. Now I’m more secure about it, knowing it doesn’t make me different. I sit at a machine three times a week. I tell people right off. I do get winded sometimes but that’s the extent of it. - What were some of the most challenging moments you faced while developing your journal?
Reliving some of the memories. The one with the woman I looked up to thinking I was not a likable person was especially hard to relive. - How do you maintain your mental health while dealing with such significant health challenges?
Keeping it positive. My Dr.s and others always asks how am I always positive and laughing and joking. It’s part of my coping. My writing helps, journaling, and self care. Massages, Yoga. - What role has self-awareness played in your personal healing journey?
It has got me through. Finding myself and what I want to do has literally what keeps me going. My self awareness journey has given me strength. I used to say I want to be as strong as my mother. I saw her go through things being the single mother of three children She made it look easy. As an adult I know now it was anything but easy. - How did you overcome the moments when you felt overwhelmed or discouraged?
Family and friends. They would never let me give up or feel sorry for myself. I’ve had moments where I wanted to give up. - What advice would you give to women who are dealing with their own health struggles and trying to pursue their passions?
Keep going. Breathe!!! Always breathe and remember who you were before the health challenges. You may not still be that person but take from the old you and recognize the person you are becoming and embrace it. Self care is important. Always keep going. - Can you describe a moment or experience that particularly strengthened your resolve to continue your project?
A friend asked if I had written anything. I hadn’t. She told me she was waiting for my third book “Takedown “. Her telling me that got me back at it. Someone was waiting for my book. It’s a great feeling to know someone enjoys your work. - How do you balance self-care with your creative and professional responsibilities?
My creative responsibilities are part of my self care. Whether writing for books or journaling to get things off my chest. Yoga and working out helps to strengthen my body and endurance. I stiffen up at times and the Yoga and massages are a must. A warm bath or shower helps as well. I am a candle girl. I have several around my house. The scents calm me. - What message do you hope your journal conveys to its readers?
I hope it gets all the outside noise out of their heads and helps them realize what is authentically them. - Are there any practices or routines that have been particularly helpful for you in managing stress and maintaining focus?
I’m finding Yoga and meditation are helpful. Breathing has been great combatting anxiety for me. - How has your perspective on life and creativity changed since your diagnosis?
It changed everything about my perspective. I realized there was things I could no longer do and I had to do some things differently. - What role does community support play in your life and work?
I don’t have much community support. I haven’t found my community in Atlanta. - What are your hopes for the future of your project and for yourself personally?
I want my work to get read by larger audiences. I want to be able to outreach more with the people. I love hearing their reactions to my work.
IG: @yvettewayauthor and @symphony18_publishing
W: www.symphony18publishing.com
