: About Me

Mary Norman's lifelong passion for the written word was made apparent on her 5th birthday when she burst into tears at the breakfast table. Her abject disappointment in not being able to read the newspaper (she was 5 now) became a beloved family fable and is a perfect example of what drives her- communication.

Formerly a Vice President in Retail Banking Administration, Mary was able to utilize her natural communication abilities to build an accomplished banking career. Her talent of focusing on human behaviors allowed her to successfully manage company mergers, develop policy and procedure as well as develop peers and employees in their leadership roles.

Two years ago, Mary was at the proverbial crossroads of change. A victim of corporate downsizing, she faced a monumental decision: move back to the big city and find a job in her field or start her own business doing what she loves. The decision was easy; Mary grabbed her pen (and computer) and began doing what she does best- writing. She put her experience in the corporate world to work for her by starting her own business, Inkslinger Writing Solutions (www.inkslingerwriting.com ), a writing and editing service for corporate and individual clients.

Mary believes that the value of people, relationships and a positive outlook on life are necessary factors in achieving a healthy, satisfying lifestyle. Her focus on personal growth and development are a result of many years of self-evaluation and an innate desire to help others.

A lifelong Florida resident, Mary's communication style is similar to her lifestyle. Her interests lie in wearing flip-flops, practicing yoga, traveling to new places, photography and history. She believes that finding joy in the simple things- from meeting a friend for a cup of coffee to catching up on Leave it to Beaver reruns- is key to living "the good life."

Mary seeks to make a difference by writing about real-life issues we all face. Her goal is to motivate, educate and inspire her readers- connecting with her audience and enhancing their success.

My passion is ...

doing the "right thing"

I know too much about ...

all the stuff I wish I knew less of?

My parents always told me ...

we were not the Electric Company.

My childhood ambition ...

depending on my age...archeologist (dinosaurs!), the bionic woman (superhero!), artist (tortured soul), marine biologist (the ocean!), dancer (Barishnakov), fireman (save kitties!)...I could keep going...

My favorite memory ...

recalling my childhood knowledge that in each day, something spectacular was going to happen.

Why I write ...

to get these crazy thoughts out my head!

What I am reading/watching/listening to ...

whatever comes my way.

My first job ...

Preschool teacher aide- summer session, at 14. I got to take the kids roller skating, swimming, etc...tough job.

My best moment ...

I don't think it's happened yet!

My inspiration ...

My mom- that little voice inside my head.

Society & Lifestyle > Personal Morals & Values How choices can make us better people

7 of 19

I have a good life. It's not perfect, but it's pleasant, calm, laid-back. This is how I like it. It wasn't always this way and it isn't because I am just "lucky"; it's because I choose to live my life this way. I believe in the Value of People, the Value of Love- not the mushy stuff that is limited to romance; but the love of people in general. The simplicity of knowing that another human being has a real live connection to you; that those who are in your life now or who used to be in your life at one time provide value. They allow you to teach to and to learn from- they are like you but d...

More..

• Helium Charter Member