Writer Spotlight - Krista H.
In this month's writer spotlight we sit down with Scripted writer Krista H. Krista comes to us from Canada, where she studied psychology and neuroscience. Still active in her research, she now focuses on all aspects of health — both mental and physical. Based on her strong research skills, she is confident in a wide range of topics. Her specialties are health, nutrition, neuroscience, and business. She also owns a small business, which is most certainly her creative outlet!
Tell us a little about yourself. (As much as you’re comfortable sharing, of course!)
My name is Krista, a 30-something-year-old writer with a background in psychology and neuroscience. Medical, health, and science writing is my bread and butter. However, I am also incredibly passionate about everything from woodworking to fishing. I am currently working towards building my own off-grid cabin in the woods, designing the ultimate writer retreat and homestead, complete with bees, chickens, and maybe even a goat, as well as a treehouse reading nook, of course.
Where are you from and where are you operating currently?
I’m a Canadian girl from Muskoka, Ontario — a place known for its freshwater lakes, towering pines, and abundant wildlife. The great outdoors has a massive impact on my everyday life, allowing me to truly practice work-life-balance. I also lived in England on and off for seven years. Being a writer gave me that option, which is something I am incredibly grateful for to this day.
How did you become a freelance writer and how long have you been writing for Scripted?
I first began writing approximately ten years ago. When I first moved to England, I had just finished my degree and although I was incredibly passionate about neuroscience, my prospective career path did not provide me with the freedom and creativity I desired.
While traveling around England’s coast, I began writing a book on sustainability in relation to human health. I had no plan — I was just writing about what inspired me at the time, and that was it, really. I was hooked. From there, I just began researching how to become a writer, dedicating 10 to 12 hours a day on shaping my craft.
I have been working for Scripted for six years or so, which again, has allowed me to live a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle. I make a good living and still have time to focus on my own personal projects. I have owned and operated a number of small businesses and blogs over the years, which are most certainly my creative outlet. I love that Scripted respects and supports both its writers and clients equally, building a community that allows everyone to grow and thrive.
What is your approach to proposals? What have you found that works best?
Before I even think about writing a proposal, the first thing I do is read the content brief. I cannot stress the importance of this step enough. While you may love to write about x, y, and z, the client may have no interest. Follow their directions and write a proposal based on what THEY WANT — and go that extra mile by conducting 5-10 minutes of research so that you can inject ideas that are unique and relevant.
How have you been able to balance your work as a freelancer with the rest of your life and the state of the world?
This year has been a bit of a doozy, and although COVID-19 has turned the world on its head, I am thankful to say that my life hasn’t really changed that much. Well, other than the fact that I’m currently 33 weeks pregnant with my first-born (and that has been a challenge in that I have not been able to share my experience in-person with those I love).
In terms of my career, though, I could not be more grateful that I am a freelance writer. Although I take my job very seriously and am highly committed to my clients, as I take great pride in my work, the level of freedom I have in my day-to-day life is inspiring to others.
Many often say, “you’re so lucky” in terms of my schedule and overall lifestyle. However, I like to remind them that luck has never played a role in where I am today in terms of my career. I have worked incredibly hard to get to where I am. I have always been highly goal-oriented and committed when it comes to my work. Now, a decade later, I am able to work full-time, all while carving out much-appreciated personal time.
What tips would you recommend for writers who are new to the Scripted platform?
If you are new to the Scripted platform, congrats and welcome! As I said above, Scripted has always looked out for its writers, so the best advice I can give is to reciprocate. Take your role as a Scripted writer seriously, giving your best each and every day. If you do that, you’ll do incredibly well.
This approach applies to everything in life — the more you give, the more you’ll get in return. So, if you’re serious about building your writing career, take the time to develop a solid reputation and rapport with Scripted clients, focusing on your niche.
Tip: Start each day with a specific goal, especially in terms of proposals (i.e. before you begin work, submit 10 proposals). In between jobs, participate in online writing courses or take the time to research and understand key marketing strategies, as this will become an advantage throughout your journey as a digital content writer.
