Walking with Grace: Jenny Block
It’s impossible not to be drawn to Jenny Block. Not only is she a powerful writer (have you seen her newest New York Times piece?), but Jenny approaches life with a blend of optimism, strength, whimsy, and grace that’s all her own. It’s part of what makes her a unicorn!
If you Google Jenny Block, a wealth of her published pieces pop up. Her articles range from a first-hand experience at a nudist resort to foodie coverage of Feast Portland to covering model and musician Taylor Muhl coming out as a chimera (it’s fascinating). A quick skim through her headlines will reel you in and have you voraciously pouring over each piece, so have your coffee ready, and it will confirm for you without a doubt that Jenny is living her best life.
And living her best life is actually what Jenny Block is known for! Her newest book, Be That Unicorn, is all about stepping into your own, finding your magic, and sharing your shine. So, what does it mean to be a unicorn? “Being That Unicorn means being the magnetic person that everyone in the room is drawn to. It means being honest and true to yourself every day, no matter what. When you are really, really good at being yourself, you’ll make other people feel really, really good about themselves, too,” Jenny explains.
Catching Up With Jenny Block
What inspired you to write Be That Unicorn?
People often tell me that being around me makes them feel good about themselves. “You’re like this little cheerleader saying, ‘You can do it!’ all day long. I wish I could carry you around in my pocket all the time,” they would joke. Well, I can’t be in everyone’s pocket. But my book and my words certainly can.
My Papa Herbie made me feel like the most special little unicorn in the universe who can be or do absolutely everything. Not everyone has a Papa Herbie. But they can certainly have a little tome to help them on their way to Being That Unicorn!
photo credit: Terri Glanger
How did you find your voice as a writer?
I tried to write like other people. The more uncomfortable that got, the more I realized that there was no point in doing that. It sounded fake. It was nearly impossible to do. And, in the end, what’s the point?
I told my inner critic to “Pipe down!” and I gave myself permission to write. I reminded myself that just because it hits the page doesn’t mean the whole world will see it that instant. There is a time and place for editing. But when you are having a go at getting it all out on paper is not the time. Let it all out. Bleed on the page, as they say. Then you can tidy it up before you send it out into the world.
photo credit: Terri Glanger
How do you check in and “keep prancing” during times of stress?
I spend as much time as I can outside. I remind myself to breathe. I do my best to get in 10,000 steps a day. I bake for the people I love. I watch movies with my wife. I love on my dogs. I remind myself that this too shall pass.
And I remember to practice gratitude and to lead with kindness and abundance. I want to be proud of who I was when this crisis passes. So far so good…
photo credit: Aryka Randall
What advice do you have for the baby unicorns, fresh out of the gate on their journey to finding their magic?
Stay true to you. Find your herd and you will be heard.
You don’t have to change yourself to fit the world. Share your shine and there will always be a place for you.
photo credit: Terri Glanger
What has been your favorite memory or experience in your career as a writer?
Oh my gosh. There are so many. Getting my first book contract. Speaking at Georgetown University. Performing on Holland America cruise ships. Finding just the right word. Finishing each book. Hearing from readers that my work has changed their lives for the better. The list goes on and on!
photo credit: Terri Glanger
You have a powerful voice, what causes are you amplifying these days?
Black lives matter. Our country is not safe for young Black men. Our country is not safe for Black Trans Women. Our country is not safe for anyone who is not White. Racism is not an opinion.
We can no longer “Be nice” and say that “Everyone is allowed their opinion.” Allow me to say it again - Racism is not an opinion.
photo credit: Aryka Randall
We love your work and can’t wait to see what you’re working on next. Can you give us any hints?
I am toying with a couple of new ideas, including a workbook and journal to go along with Be That Unicorn and a new book to help inspire us all to lead lives that are as sparkly as possible!
photo credit: Terri Glanger
We want to wish Jenny Block the happiest of birthdays! Her 50th birthday soiree is on hold due to the pandemic, and Jenny invites us all to celebrate with her this year by purchasing, sharing, and reviewing Be That Unicorn. Her book will have you sharing your shine and prancing your way through life, and it makes a fabulous gift for loved ones.
Remember, the world is your oyster!
One Love & Blessings,