Today, we are interviewing Ariel Simmons, a children’s book author. Born and raised in the Chicagoland area, Ariel Simmons found her gift at an early age. The moment her pen touched the paper, she was forever bound to her love, writing. At the age of 10, she began writing books of poetry transitioning to screenplays in high school.
In her debut children’s book Miracle Malcolm, she showcases her talents to the world as an author to inspire, educate, and spread positivity to those around her.
How did you get into what you do right now? Please tell us more about your journey?
I am a mom of a baby boy who was born prematurely. I got started with my children’s book after my son was born. He inspired me to write about his journey being born prematurely. I chose to write my book, Miracle Malcolm, to heal myself and others.
Who are your role models?
My role models would be my mom and my brother. I am always inspired by their perseverance and drive for more/better in life, even amid challenging times.
What inspires you?
My son inspires me to go harder for myself daily. Also, I’m inspired and motivated by the constant desire to be better and push pass mediocrity.
What’s your most memorable experience?
My son was born prematurely at 25 weeks due to me having an incompetent cervix. I had a normal pregnancy up until that point. He spent 3 months in the NICU until he reached the adequate weight/health to come home. That will forever be my most memorable experience. It changed my life, and I will forever be grateful for the nurses/doctors at Edward Hospital, NICU department, for saving my son’s life.
Which social media channels work best for promoting your work? What exactly do you do on the social media channel that makes it work for you?
Instagram has been my most engaging/responsive site so far. I have two pages; one for Miracle Malcolm & one for myself. I connect with other moms/families and share our stories and journeys of entrepreneurship and motherhood.
What’s your greatest fear?
My greatest fear is losing my family. I love being a mom and having a family. It’s the greatest reward.
Looking back, what’s one thing you wish you understood better before you ever got started?
Looking back, I wish I understood that baby steps are still steps in the right direction. I let wanting perfection to hold me back. Now that I know that, that has helped me tremendously in moving forward. I start where I am, and I continue to take steps towards elevating myself and moving forward. I show up for myself and my brand daily. I interact and build connections with moms/families often in order to build rapport and relationships.
What keeps you going when things get tough?
Seeing the positive responses and feedback from moms/families and even some companies about my book/journey definitely keep me pushing forward. It keeps me motivated to continue to show up for myself and them.
Any message for our readers.
My hope for anyone reading this would be to stay inspired and to not let the fear of perfection keep you from moving forward.
How can people connect with you?
Miracle Malcolm is on Facebook & Instagram as MiracleXMalcolm, and I am on Instagram as Ariellsimmons.