Debut author Ankit Jhamb, an astute leader at BIG 4, a passionate people coach and expert with a strong interest in emotional intelligence shares wisdom on storytelling and becoming a best seller.
Author – Lost and found at 35
Q. When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? Have you always wanted to be a writer?
I think I always had a hidden desire to do something creative. Although I had never thought of writing a book but being a voracious reader and an inclination towards storytelling must have been the reasons I decided to embark on the journey of becoming an author.
I remember a friend authored a book and then I thought to myself do I have it in me to write a book as well. May be that was the moment when the hidden desire to write stories manifested itself.
Q. What genre of book do you like as a reader and now as a writer?
I love reading psychology and spirituality. Of late I started reading mythology fiction and have been thoroughly enjoying them. As a writer now I am trying to read different genres to appreciate and learn from different forms of writing.
Q. What was your experience with “ Lost and found at 35”?
The last 11 months of Lost and Found at 35 have been amazing. The book has touched lives and emotions. Almost every week I get a few messages that how the book has inspired them to pursue their passion and how people could relate to the protagonist of the book. Apart from these messages the feeling of signing books is a different pleasure altogether.
The books has crossed the 1000 mark and is now also being considered for a motion picture.
Q. What was your inspiration behind writing “ Lost and found at 35”?
In the age of depression and stress disorders, people need to be made aware of simple yet effective ways to uplift the quality of life. Depression can either be cured by medicines or by constructively designing a routine and changing your lifestyle. The book has been written with the intent of helping people design a purposeful life.
Secondly, the book also has its roots in my own experiences. In the last few years, I have run marathons, directed and acted in stage plays and started an NGO. All of this has resulted in improving my quality of life at work and at home. It has also helped me manage stress, keep the positivity alive. I figured building a life on passion is great protection from falling into the trap of stress and anxiety.
Q. Where do you get your ideas for your books?
Ah! This is a mystery. I get ideas in random moments. Sometimes driving, while reading a book, doing meditation. Basically every time I am not deliberately thinking about an idea thats exactly when the idea comes quietly. However, most of the stories are the culmination of my view of human behavior and my ability to tell stories.
Q. What are the challenges you face as a writer?
The biggest challenge for a writer and I am no different is writing every day with discipline.
The second challenge is to be able to do justice to the thought or emotion through your words.
Q. Do you experience writer’s block? If yes, How do you handle that?
Ha..ha.., it’s quite usual to feel stuck or to feel u have lost the touch or at times just the inability to express. I think my way to deal with it is not to take it seriously. You don’t take it to heart and jump to conclusions. Creativity has its own way and all you can do is to be receptive and open. If it’s not happening today it will happen tomorrow.
Q. What is your work schedule like when you’re writing?
I typically write at the end of every day. After finishing my office work winding up my daily routine I start writing at around 11 pm and write till 1230 in the night.
For the first three books I was writing every weekend but for the fourth book since it was a big project I had to develop the routine of daily writing.
One fun-fact that you want to share with your audience.
With every book, I used to find out a song which played on loop till the time book got over.
Also I need chai to write.
Share a brief on recent & upcoming books.
The second book – “Lights Please” is already out and should hit amazon and Flipkart by December end.
The third book is a love story that enters the publishing stage in January and the launch around April 2021
The fourth book is mythology fiction and would go for publishing around April 2021.
With 3 more books after lost and found at 35 in the pipeline, the hands are full till 2022.
About the author
Ankit Jhamb is a senior leader working with one of the Big 4 consulting firms. He has spent the last 14 years coaching and developing people. He has special expertise in common mental disorders and emotional intelligence. Alongside his job he runs an NGO by the name of Aao khilayein and also writes books. With a degree in psychology and vast experience in corporates he also acts as an advisor to BRICS Chambers of Commerce.
author’s website – www.ankitjhamb.com
Disclaimer : Content of the interview is published with author’s consent.