Meet Lincee Ray | Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lincee Ray and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lincee, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
I want to tackle this question by answering that I never give up. I was raised to keep going, no matter what the circumstance. I am in it to win it! However, the older I get, the more I realize that “giving up” doesn’t have to depict a negative connotation. In most cases, the assumption that I’m giving up is actually me practicing healthy boundaries. I no longer feel guilt or fall into a people-pleasing mindset to keep doing the thing that others expect me to do. Will walking away bring me greater joy? Do I experience a sense of extreme peace at the thought of “giving up?” If the answer is a resounding yes, then I feel every freedom to do just that.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been a writer my entire life. It’s always come easy to me, which is why I chose it as a profession. I made pretty good money in the oil and gas business, but I never felt fulfilled creatively. The day I took a leap of faith and walked away from my career was the scariest thing I’ve ever done. It has also been the most rewarding. Sure, I had to make adjustments, and I’ve certainly learned what it truly means to hustle. But I think it’s important for people to tell their story. Even if it makes you look a little weird.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a week to spend with a visiting friend, we would spend every day eating queso at Teotihuacan Mexican Cafe. The end. If she insisted we do something other than eat incredible food, I supposed I could oblige her and check out Miller Outdoor Theater. They always have interesting and creative performances AND they allow outside food. So we could take the queso with us!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I wouldn’t be where I am or who I am without the love and support of my dear friends who lifted me up from the first moment I said out loud, “I’m thinking about writing a book.” These women encouraged me to tell my story, read countless versions and drafts, and celebrated with me when the Word document miraculously transformed into an actual book you can buy at a store. One of my favorite parts of the book is when I showcase their names in the acknowledgment section. Everyone needs a tribe like mine.

Website: ihategreenbeans.com

Instagram: @LinceeRay

Twitter: @LinceeRay

Facebook: @LinceeRay

Other: iHateGreenBeans Podcast with Lincee Ray