Author Q&A: L’Oreal Thompson Payton, ’08

L’Oreal Thompson Payton, ’08, is an award-winning journalist, author, keynote speaker, and communications executive. Her debut book, Stop Waiting for Perfect: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Into Your Power, invites readers to seek growth rather than perfection. Thompson Payton has also opened Zora’s Place, the first Black feminist bookstore in Evanston, Illinois.

Your book encourages readers to stop waiting for the “perfect moment.” When did you realize perfectionism was holding you back?

While I was writing it, I came across a tweet that said, “You can edit bad, but you can’t edit nothing.” That simple statement helped me realize I needed to get out of my own way. I was so focused on submitting a “perfect first draft,” when my real job was simply to put words on the page and let my editor help make them better. Perfection does not exist, and chasing it was costing me time, energy, and joy.

Is there one mindset shift or daily practice that helped you move past self-doubt and imposter syndrome?

The biggest shift was realizing that my goal is not to eliminate self-doubt, but to shorten the time I spend doubting and act anyway. I practiced starting projects before I felt ready and letting things be “good enough,” instead of perfect.

How did Loyola shape you as a storyteller and advocate?

My communication major enabled me to explore the meaning and power of storytelling, and I had several mentors along the way. Kevin Atticks, DCD, my journalism professor and advisor, always showed up for me, while Elizabeth Leik’s creative writing class pushed me to grow in new ways. John McIntyre’s editing course was tough but formative, and I later had the privilege of working with him at The Baltimore Sun. Studying abroad in Spain and Italy with the late Andrew Ciafolo helped me hone the storytelling skills I still use today. Working at The Greyhound laid the foundation for my career; and my experiences with ALANA and the Black Student Association helped me embrace my identity and form lifelong friendships.

What excites you most about the future of Zora’s Place?

I dream of a literary magazine featuring Black women and femme writers, a rotating artist residency, and a writing fellowship. I want programming like creative retreats and workshops for young writers. At its core, Zora’s Place is about belonging. I want Black women and girls to feel seen, heard, and deeply loved when they walk through our doors.

What’s next for you?

My first children’s book, Amanda Gorman: Poet and Activist, is out now, and my next book, Violet Goes Voting, arrives this September. I’m also working toward the spring 2027 release of my memoir, Infertile Black Girl.