Grace P. Cho, a writer and editor, discusses discernment, goodbyes, and diversity in publishing. She shares her journey embracing change, trusting instincts, and transitioning towards new beginnings. The episode reflects on identity, roles, and the art of listening to oneself for fulfilling decisions.
Recognizing the need for transition in creative pursuits and embracing change as a chance for growth.
Acknowledging the significance of timely closures in relationships and the importance of readiness for new beginnings.
Deep dives
Grace's Transition from Writer to Editor
Grace describes her significant shift from identifying primarily as a writer to now seeing herself as an editor and sometimes a writer. This transition, marked by a shift in her interests and joy levels, led her to realize that it was time to end her writing in a particular way. Understanding that her writing had reached a point of fulfillment and closure, she embraced this change as an opportunity for growth and exploration, moving into what she terms as a "fallow season" of rest, observation, and receiving, allowing her to explore different facets of her identity and creativity.
Navigating Goodbyes with Grace's Mentoring Groups
Grace reflects on bidding farewell to her mentoring groups after sensing a pivotal moment for closure in her relationships. She emphasizes the importance of knowing when it is time to transition, acknowledging the readiness of mentees to lead themselves and take the next steps in their journeys. This deliberate decision-making process, supported by mutual affirmation and a gut feeling akin to the changing seasons, helped Grace and her mentees navigate the shift with clarity, providing a sense of closure and readiness to explore new paths.
Grace's Philosophical Approach to Finding Identity and Joy
Amidst her professional changes, Grace delves into a philosophical journey of self-discovery and adaptation, shedding light on her growth and evolving perceptions of herself. She candidly shares her experiences of letting go of preconceived notions and societal expectations, such as becoming a pastor instead of marrying one, showcasing her openness to new possibilities and reframing traditional narratives. Grace's pursuit of joy and self-discovery underscores the transformative power of embracing change, trusting her instincts, and cultivating a sense of curiosity and playfulness in her ongoing journey of self-realization.
Grace P. Cho is a Korean-American writer and Senior Acquisitions Editor at Revell, which is an imprint of Baker Publishing Group. Grace has authored and edited several inCourage bible studies and devotionals. And she's most recently contributed to the book Voices of Lament: Reflections on Brokenness and Hope in a World Longing for Justice.
I've known Grace for many years and she is a kind and gracious presence for me personally, but she extends this beyond just her personal friends. She creates space for people to be known, nurtured, and challenged through her work and she desires to elevate women of color's voices in the publishing industry.
Grace has said several goodbyes in the last year, but her experience is is a beautiful illustration of how not all goodbyes are sad. Her kind, generative presence and perspective on life and change is right on time. Listen in.