What Do You Want Written On Your Headstone? And Other Knockout Advice on Building A Writer's Life from Libby Flores

What does it take to become a writer? For Libby Flores, associate publisher at BOMB Magazine, the journey was anything but traditional. In a recent conversation with CCA MFA students, she shared how she's carved her own path—from being a high school dropout to becoming a published writer, a PEN Emerging Voices Fellow, and a leader in the literary world.

Her story is a testament to perseverance, creative risk-taking, and the importance of building a writing life that works for you. Here are some of the biggest takeaways from her visit.

1. Make Writing a Priority

It’s easy for writing to take a backseat when life gets busy, but Flores emphasized that if you don’t make time for it, years can slip by. She learned this the hard way when her literary career at PEN took up so much of her energy that she stopped writing for years. Now, she protects her writing time fiercely. “Never take a job where you can’t write,” she advised.

2. Trick Yourself Into Writing

Getting started is often the hardest part. Flores found creative ways to hold herself accountable, like setting a daily writing hour, listening to the same song on repeat to trigger focus, and implementing a rule: if she got distracted online, she had to submit her work somewhere. “If you’re not going to be the writer, you have to be the secretary,” she joked.

3. Scare Yourself Creatively

Growth happens outside your comfort zone. Flores “scared” herself into applying to Bennington’s MFA program despite not having an undergraduate degree, which was a turning point in her writing career. She encouraged writers to push themselves—whether by submitting to a challenging publication, experimenting with new forms, or seeking feedback from someone who will be honest and rigorous.

4. Surround Yourself with Writers

Being part of a literary community can be life-changing. Flores’ career took off when she joined the PEN Emerging Voices Fellowship, where she found validation, mentorship, and connections that opened doors. She advised writers to attend book launches, literary events, and residencies, not just for networking but to immerse themselves in the writing world.

5. Be Thoughtful About Submissions

As someone who has been on both sides of publishing, Flores had clear advice: follow submission guidelines carefully, research the publication before sending work, and don’t rush the process. A polished, well-matched submission stands out far more than something sent in haste.

6. Balance Literary Work with Your Own Writing

Working in publishing or literary nonprofits can be rewarding, but it can also consume the creative energy needed for personal projects. Flores learned to set boundaries, taking inspiration from her current job at BOMB, where the staff gets Fridays off to create or experience art.

7. Own Your Identity as a Writer

Flores spoke about how imposter syndrome can hold writers back. At first, she didn’t believe she belonged in the literary world, but she challenged herself to say, “I’m a writer,” and to act accordingly. “We speak things into reality,” she said.

8. Be Kind and Professional in Literary Spaces

Whether submitting work, reaching out to editors, or working with agents, kindness and professionalism go a long way. Flores encouraged writers to be patient, courteous, and aware of how they present themselves in literary communities.

Final Thoughts

Libby Flores’ story is a powerful reminder that there’s no single path to becoming a writer. Whether through self-study, an MFA, or independent practice, what matters most is consistency, courage, and a commitment to your own voice.

As she put it, “You don’t get this time back. Play, make a mess, ask questions.”