Check out our interview with the author of the viral sensation “The Modern Break-Up” Daniel Chidiac.
Follow Daniel @danielchidiac
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Persistent, self-aware, self-reflective.
Name one your strengths?
I would say one of my strengths is to look at everything from different perspectives, even if I don’t agree with them at the time.
Best advice ever given?
Sometimes in life it’s not what you want, it’s what you need that matters.
Who has been the biggest influence on your life?
My family. Their love and support is always appreciated above all else.
How and when did you first start writing?
I first started writing when I was 23. I had a conscious awakening and all the pieces of the puzzle that my life consisted of started to make sense and come together. I took accountability for my past, present and future and knew I had to share what I was discovering within myself, to the outside world. Thus my writing began.
What is fun and rewarding about being an author? And what is not?
The fact that I get to work at my own pace and not have someone watch over me. And to answer your second question, probably the solitude of it sometimes. You can take on characters’ behaviours so you need to differentiate what is real and what is not.
What did you learn from your biggest failure?
That everything happens for a reason. Trust the universe passed up on something in order to give me something better.
The most important thing when you are planning your next book is?
To make sure it’s something that I can’t live without expressing.
What’s your advice for the newcomers in the book industry?
Just write! Don’t worry whether you are writing in the “proper” way or whether anyone will read it. Write the story or words that come flowing from you. You can sort the rest out later.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you learned so far in this business?
That sometimes going with the big publishers initially isn’t the answer. You have to see what is right for you in regards to independently (self) publishing or traditional publishing. Research the pros and cons of both.
Which author do you admire the most, and why?
Kahlil Gibran. I love how deep and lyrical he’s poetry is.
What’s next for Daniel Chidiac in 2023?
I have just finished my first movie script, a sci-fi drama, so hoping to sell that and get it under way.
In five years from now, where do you see yourself and your career?
I see myself really getting my name out there to becoming one of the biggest names in film making and production. I would also like to have portfolio in property that will just grow and grow.
What is your favorite healthy food?
My go to is probably a well cooked salmon dish.
And your favorite cheat food?
A burger!
What is your own definition of happiness?
I think happiness is a feeling we strive for, but it’s not possible to have all the time. I like to look at it as being content with having all emotions in life. When you become comfortable and accept that you can’t hold onto happiness all the time, it frees your mind.
How would your best friend describe you?
I think they would have a lot to say! But I’ll keep it light and say that they would say I’m loyal.
Who is your biggest career inspiration?
I don’t have any in particular, but I would say those people who are not afraid to be themselves.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Marcus Aurelius…his wisdom has been passed on and relatable for two thousand years.
What do you like to watch on Tv?
Documentaries. I love learning about the earth, history, art…whatever really!
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
Weather dependant but going for a nice walk and chilling!
Where we can follow you?
@danielchidiac on Instagram
Favorite Quote: I have many, but one that I constantly remember is… “life isn’t happening to you, it’s happening for you.”
