By: Vickie Oliver Lawson - April 4, 2013
As I move around the area, this writer is usually intrigued by those with whom I come into contact. I met spa owner and entrepreneur, Julie Williamson, and was piqued by the myriad of interests and talents she possesses. Originally from the West Indies, this business woman now makes her home in the Baltimore area. Below is a one-on-one interview as she told me about her latest ventures, including her spa, Return to Clarity.
Q1: How do you describe what you do?
A: I am the owner of a spa center that offers services geared towards helping individuals to relax and live healthier lives. Our motto is “Make Time For Yourself”. Being in this industry has helped me to realize how important it is to balance and restore your mind, body and spirit when the pressures of jobs, family, and relationships can wear you down. Therefore, I intend to dedicate my life to teaching how rewarding yourself, making time for fun, and staying healthy can increase your happiness in your life and with your loved ones.
Q2; When, why and how did you get started?
A: I always loved books and reading so I eventually opened a bookstore in March, 2006. Shortly after that I started writing not knowing that I even had the talent or the knowhow. I began writing on a series of topics that I myself had not experienced and so it became difficult to find the inspiration to complete the book based on the fact that I hadn’t experienced the subjects I was discussing. 7 years later I would revisit this book and read it to discover that I was in fact now going through the live (sic) changing experiences I wrote about in this book that can sometimes leave you feeling depressed and stagnant. It was finally time for me to continue writing and finish this project.
Q3: Who influenced/influences you the most?
A: I have come across many people who have had positive and negative influences in my life. I have learned that no matter the situation, everyone in your life has a certain impact that allows you to grow. It’s up to you whether or not you want to grow in a positive direction. I am humble enough to say that everyone who has crossed my path has molded me into the beautiful person I believe that I am today.
Q4: What is the name of your latest project and what is it about?
A:I have recently published an ebook that I was writing for over 6 years. The book is titled Creating Your Life Plan: Practical Ways to Manifest a Life You Can Love and Enjoy. The book basically takes you through the process of realizing that you go through stages in your life that may become overwhelming at times but it’s important to remember the process of life, where you are and embracing that place. It shows you ways you can learn to take time to nurture and love yourself so that you can be balanced, at peace and live a joyful life.
A part of this book also included a relationships chapter which I have also since removed and published another book about dating and relationships. This book is entitled finding the Right Partner: How To Attract and Keep Your Soul Mate.
Both books are available for immediate purchase and download in the Amazon Kindle Store.
Q5: What's next for you?
A: I am hoping to continue a series of self-help books geared towards healthy living as well as dating & relationships. In addition, I am also in the process of writing and publishing several adult romance short stories as well as a novel. I have found since I started writing that this gift is allowing me to use my talent in many ways.
Q6: Where do you see yourself five years from now?
A: Five years from now I see myself doing the things that I most love to do and making a living from it. This is writing self-help books, writing short stories and teaching others how to live a healthier, more balanced, and joyful life.
Q7: What challenges did you experience in your area of the arts and how do you get beyond them?
A: I have experienced writers block many times. My thought process would sometimes cease and I would get frustrated because of the lack of concentration. It can sometimes be frustrating because you want to finish the project. What has worked for me is either jotting down ideas for future projects or I may start to write something in a totally different genre.
Q8: How do you want to be remembered?
A: I would like to be remembered as being a positive influence in the lives of the people who are close to me. I would also like to be known to have published self-help books that changed the lives of many.
Q9: What advice would you give to the next generation?
A: Try to not take this whole “life” thing so personally You are good enough and can do anything your heart desires. There is no place for misery in your heart and you should always strive to be a positive role model in society. There will be enough pain in your future so embrace love and happiness as it is part of the human experience. Never deny yourself of the simple pleasures in life. Get out and see the world, learn something new every day, and never forget to smell the roses. Start loving yourself now. Unconditionally.
Q10: How can people get in touch with you?
• Email: returntoclarity@gmail.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/getnoticednow
• Blog: returntoclarity.blogspot.com
• Author site: http://books.returntoclarity.com
Thank you, Julie, for allowing me to shine a light in your journey.
