Maggie van Galen – 55
Award-Winning Children’s Book Author, Wordsmith, Editor
About me
“Always Follow Your Dreams!” That’s how I sign my books and the mantra I live by. It can take time to figure out what those dreams may be, and that’s okay as long as you strive toward them every day. I am living my dream!
My journey began in northern Michigan. If you’ve ever met a Michigander and asked them where they live, they’ll hold up their “mitten” hand and point! Well … I grew up at the top of the pinky.
I’ve written from the time I could hold a pen, and even went to Michigan State University (my blood runs green, baby!) studying advertising, journalism, and creative writing. Many career paths, states, and countries later, and after starting my family, the stories began to flow and my life as an author and wordsmith began.
What do you do and why do you do it?
What changed for you after age 50?
I feel like I have become wiser and more confident in who I am! I know that sounds a bit corny, but it’s true. It’s not that I know or understand everything, but certainly myself. I am comfortable with my abilities and quite happy to say no to things.
What would you tell the 20 or 30-year-old YOU?
What do you think you’ll tell yourself in retrospect at the end of your life?
Oof, that’s a deep question! I think/hope I will tell myself that I’m proud of the person, woman, mother, wife, and writer I was.
What impact do you think increased visibility can have on your business?
The increased visibility lends credibility to what I do both as an author and a content writer. Most of my writing gigs come through referrals, so having more visibility can only help to increase my business.
Who or what inspires you and why?
I am deeply inspired by nature and the natural world. My supreme power, if you will, is Mother Nature. She is a force to be reckoned with, a healer, a guiding light, and a comfort to me.
