How do your values shape your professional identity?

1. World Values Day is about putting your values into action. How do your values shape your work as an editor?

Immensely! My work as an editor fits largely into two camps – Christian books for Christian millennials like the MORE > series, or books shaped by Christian values for people of all faiths and none, such as Impossible is a Dare by Ben Cooley. At the heart of these lies my desire to make faith accessible and relevant to all people. I don’t think you should have to prescribe to the Christian faith entirely to enjoy it, but obviously I hope that somewhere along the line people will be invited further into what it means to know and follow God.

2. How have you seen your values progress as you have grown in your career?

That’s a hard one! I think I’ve probably become more of a true team player and encourager – I think I used to say that I was as I knew that’s what you should say on your CV. As I’ve got older I see that you cannot work in commercial publishing (or in a church-type setting) alone. Even my writing outside of work (a stereotypically solitary pursuit) requires you to listen to your agent, editor, readers etc. – none of us can do it alone!

3. How do you problem-solve when work might conflict with your beliefs?

I try to buy myself some time (if I had a penny for every time I’ve regretted sending an email in haste!) and where possible speak to my mentor – someone older, wiser and whom I trust. The best mentors don’t tell you what to do but provide a safe place for you to work through the conflicts and help you stand by what you believe.

4. What advice would you give your younger self?

Slow down, worry less, be kind, rest more, pray more, play more - don’t overestimate your importance but don’t you dare underestimate it!