What is the best thing that I love about my work?
As a writer and a speaker, I love putting experiences, thoughts, and insights into words that resonate with readers or an audience. Whether I’m writing a chapter or preparing a talk, I always strive to make it both interesting and inspiring. I truly believe that we’re here to help each other through whatever skills we’ve had the passion to develop. Everything we do feeds into itself so that we can make a contribution towards enriching someone else’s life.
What is my idea of perfect happiness?
As we know, perfection in itself is unrealistic. That said, the idea of perfection gives us something to aim for; an ‘ideal’. I consider myself a simple person in that I get pleasure from the simple things in life. I get happiness from the people I love … from laughter … from reading … from music. To put all this together, I feel perfect happiness when I’m focusing on the activities or people that I love.
What is my greatest fear?
I have two greatest fears. The first one is that sickness or disease touches someone that I love or myself. My second big fear is that I or someone I love will cross paths with a serial killer. It sounds crazy but I’m actually writing a novel about a serial killer because while I fear them, they also fascinate me.
What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?
I often over-think, which leads to either things not getting done or I create scenarios in my head that never actually happen. I blame the hamster and an imagination that likes to take situations and scenarios to the edge of sanity.
Which living persons in my profession do I most admire?
Loaded question, since I do so many things. I admire Stephen King for his prolific writing. I also admire Elizabeth Gilbert. While she’s known for her writing, I admire her for her stage presence, passion, and keynote speaking skills.
What is my greatest extravagance?
My greatest extravagance is dance. Specifically, hip hop. No matter what mood I’m in, put some dance music on and I’m suddenly hijacked by the moment. This year I actually joined a competitive dance team. I just wish I would have allowed myself this indulgence earlier in life.
On what occasion would I lie?
That’s a tough question to answer. I think we all lie at times, especially if it’s defensive lying. Other than that, if I can spare someone’s feelings, I might lie. But not if I think that they need to hear the truth.
What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?
I’m going to say deadlines. I have a love/hate relationship with them. I love deadlines because they help to finalize projects so that we can let them go and move on (ish). On the other side of that coin, deadlines loom over us like strict parole officers that force us to live within the boundaries of confined time.
When and where was I the happiest, in my work?
I’m going to say right now. I’m working on a book project that is close to my heart. It’s on single motherhood and it combines humor with reflection. Thinking back over my career, I’m also going to say about ten years ago when I worked as a writer for a health and wellness company. My boss at the time gave me the confidence I needed to bring my writing to the next level and the team I worked with was nothing but positive and supportive.
If I could, what would I change about myself?
I love the person I am today. If I could, I would go back in time and allow myself to appreciate every challenge, every obstacle, that has led me to where and who I am today. So, the answer to that question lies in the past.
What is my greatest achievement in work?
I’ve had the privilege of working on so many great projects. The real answer to that question though is my own reputation. It takes a long time for people to recognize you and your work. I’ve always valued my own sense of integrity and commitment to work done from your very best and it has paid off.
Where would I most like to live?
It doesn’t matter where, as long as I’m with my partner–in–crime and that we’re close to our children – his and mine. (And that I have my laptop with me.)
What is my most treasured possession?
Possessions are simply that: possessions. While I value certain items for their sentimental value, I have to say that my most treasured possession is my laptop. Without it, I couldn’t write. Sorry I couldn’t offer a more sentimental answer.
What is my most marked characteristic?
My sense of humor and quirky way of looking at things.
What is my most inspirational location, in my city?
Any coffee shop. I love the background hum of conversations. Also, there are no distractions such as laundry or housework screaming for your attention.
What is my favourite place to eat and drink, in my city?
I have so many. I love an Italian restaurant near my house called Monza. I often go there alone to write. I love the service, food, and ambiance. I’m also a hamburger junkie and love Notre Boeuf de Grace.
What books influenced my life and how?
When I was in my 20s I read “A Woman of Substance” by Barbara Taylor Bradford. Although a work of fiction, the character’s determination against all odds really stuck with me. More recently, I read The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls. I truly enjoyed her memoir style of writing and how she was able to tell her story without sounding like a victim.
Who are my favorite writers?
I have so many, but I think Anne Lamott and Nora Ephron are top of my list.
You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?
Definitely dance music because it makes me happy.
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?
Easy. Lisbeth Salander from The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I loved her intelligence, her dark side, and her tough girl facade. After reading the first book in the series, I actually had a girl-crush on her.
Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?
My parents. All three of them (my father remarried). Only now am I realizing the hard-earned lessons that they’ve been trying to pass down to me since forever and a day. Apparently I’m stubborn.
Which movie would I recommend to see once in a lifetime?
Bohemian Rhapsody. When I went to see it I had arrived at the movie theatre early with my laptop and was struggling with a chapter that I was writing. The movie was so inspirational. I just loved the way that the actor portrayed Freddie Mercury and his courage to own who he was. During the movie I laughed, I cried, I saw the world in a new way. By the time the movie was over, I had that chapter all figured out.
What role does art play in my life and work?
Art, in the form of writing, plays a huge role in my life. It’s how I figure out my feelings. It helps me understand myself and my place in the world. Almost all my writing sits on a foundation of personal experiences – good and bad.
Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?
I’m going to turn this question around and say that I am the biggest fan of my readers. The way that they open up to me after they’ve read something I wrote that resonated with them. That takes courage.
Whom would I like to work with in 2020?
Collaboration is key, even for writers whose work is a solitary activity. That said, anyone that shares my vision for a project and whom I can learn from.
Which people in my profession would I love to meet in 2020?
Elizabeth Gilbert. Glennon Doyle. Ellen DeGeneres.
What project, in 2020, am I looking forward to work on?
I’m looking forward to finalizing my book, SUPERWOMAN – A Funny and Reflective Look at Single Motherhood. I’m also looking forward to working on my serial killer story.
Where can you see me or my work in 2020?
My personal blog http://Moxie-Dude.com
Here’s a recent interview http://www.alainguillot.com/mona-andrei/
In January I’ll be speaking at the Fearless Woman Summit in Miami, Florida.
What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?
I’ll be writing until the day I take my last breath. I truly believe this.
How can you contact me?
I’m also on social media:
ca.linkedin.com/in/monaandrei/
https://www.facebook.com/MoxieDude
https://www.instagram.com/mona_andrei
Here follows a message of Peter de Kuster, founder of The Heroine’s Journey
Are you a creative leader or creative professional looking to develop your business skills and storytelling?
Amidst today’s uncertainty, it is more important than ever to reconnect with yourself and others, develop your creative business, and build your story. Dive deep into your unique business style and areas for growth with the coaching of Peter de Kuster.
IS THE HEROINE’S JOURNEY COACHING FOR YOU?
You are a creative leader or creative professional who is interested in developing yourself, your business, and your story.
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You are aware that there are no quick fixes. Learning is a journey that works when you are fully committed to it. Coaching can bring awareness and help you navigate, but in the end it’s you who is in charge of your growth.
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You want to learn more about how to resource yourself, learn about blind spots, and get feedback.
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You are curious and want to engage in online learning.
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You are motivated to work in-between sessions on yourself (e.g. working on homework assignments that will help you develop new storytelling, skills, and behaviors).
WHAT’S YOUR COACHING QUESTION?
The Heroine’s Journey Coaching is all about your development. To make the most out of your sessions, we ask you to prepare topics to work on with Peter. These topics can serve as a starting point for further in-depth exploration with Peter.
These coaching topics typically resonate with the creative leaders Peter works with:
How can i tell the most powerful story possible about myself and my creative business?
How can I handle self promotion and marketing of my creative business better?
How do can I stay authentic and with focus when having difficult conversations with potential clients?
What are my creative values and how do I align these with my business values?
How can I manage my time and energy better?
How can I radiate confidence to my clients while feeling anxious inside?
How can I steer myself towards creative excellence without becoming rigid?
About Peter de Kuster
Peter de Kuster is the founder of The Heroine’s Journey & Hero’s Journey project, a storytelling firm which helps creative professionals to create careers and lives based on whatever story is most integral to their lives and careers (values, traits, skills and experiences). Peter’s approach combines in-depth storytelling and marketing expertise, and for over 20 years clients have found it effective with a wide range of creative business issues.
Peter is writer of the series The Heroine’s Journey and Hero’s Journey books, he has an MBA in Marketing, MBA in Financial Economics and graduated at university in Sociology and Communication Sciences.
PRICING
The Heroine’s Journey Coaching online sessions last 50 minutes and the fee is Euro 189 excluding VAT per session. The Heroine’s Journey Coaching is suitable for people at any stage in their career.
FAQ
Who can sign up for The Heroine’s Journey online coaching?
Creative leaders and creative professionals who wish to improve their business story and develop their business skills and mindset.
Should I choose 1:1 coaching?
Our The Heroine’s Journey experiences in world cities allow you to learn not only from the coach but also from your peers. For the small group coaching (1 – 4 people), we have selected important, relevant topics that we find regularly come up for creative professional: purpose, storytelling, creative confidence, self promotion, time & money and resilience.
If you would prefer to work alone or on a different topic, individual coaching is a better fit for you.
What language do we speak in the coaching sessions?
English.
Can I buy coaching for my organization?
Yes, you can! We support many organizations around the world with their coaching needs. Please contact us for more information.
Can I bring my own topics?
Yes, for individual coaching you get to choose your own topic.
Are coaching sessions confidential?
Yes. Peter will not share anything that is discussed in the coaching sessions.
Where will the coaching sessions take place?
Sessions will take place online (as per the times we live in) via an online tool like Zoom or Skype. Peter will let you know.
How do I sign up?
Send Peter a mail to theherojourneyquestionnaires@gmail.com to start booking your coaching sessions.
How do I pay?
After you send the mail, you will receive an email with a link to pay.
How do I book and reschedule sessions?
Once we’ve received your payment, Peter will contact you and book your coaching sessions. He will also support you with rescheduling sessions if needed.
What is your cancellation policy?
Individual coaching sessions can be postponed up to one week before the session.
The Heroine's Journey 