Getting Ahead: Ocean Township woman translated passion for novels into career.

I was destined to be a star. That is what I told myself as I would sing my favorite Janet Jackson tune into my hairbrush while looking at myself in the mirror.

The dream was short-lived because reality set in. I was indeed going to be a star, but not for singing and dancing.

I had another passion - reading. I owe that to my mother, who was an avid reader and instilled the same joy in me. I loved mystery and suspense novels by authors such as Mary Higgins Clark and V.C. Andrews. I also loved reading about the rich and famous, turning to such authors as Jackie Collins and Danielle Steele.

After many - and I do mean many - years of reading and journaling, I finally decided to try my hand at writing. After getting feedback from my friends and family, I penned my first novel, "And Even If I Did," in 2006. This novel was a story about three Jersey girls looking for love.

This accomplishment sealed my fate. I had officially been bitten by the writing bug. I went on to release four more titles, all while operating an online radio show, Writer's Life Chats, and an online literary magazine, Writer's Vibe.

I had a passion for anything literary. After losing my full-time job as a medical assistant in 2009, I realized I had to make my passion for books work for me. During this time, I saw that social media was growing.

I studied the various mediums to determine how I could expand my brand and make money; hence, my author and product promotion services were conceived.

Through my research, I learned that the greatest challenge for authors was getting their work in the hands of readers.

I used popular social-networking sites to expose my clients to new readers. Given the success of my author clients, I decided to expand my services to other professionals who needed help with exposure. Today I operate my own publishing company, DivaBooksInc, which is the umbrella company for my services, which range from interviews, literary consulting and book/product marketing and promotion.

Although I do not have a degree in journalism or marketing, my motto is "Failure is not an option." With that attitude, I am destined for greatness. For every "no," I create my own "yes." Everything I have learned has come as a result of extensive research and determination.

What started as a hobby is now a thriving business that brings me great satisfaction. I am my own boss which makes me a proud entrepreneur. At one time I only saw myself as a health care worker. While that title was fulfilling, it was not as fulfilling as helping others turn their visions into reality. I take great satisfaction in knowing I help others make a living. Every day I think of new and unique ways to expand my brand while leaving a legacy for my four children.

Written by Kisha Green

This is a repost from APP.Com