Carrie Berk on the Dating Disasters That Inspired Her New Book, My Real-Life Rom-Com

20-year-old TikTok phenomenon, actor and journalist Carrie Berk knows a thing or two about dates gone wrong, and in her hilarious new book, My Real-Life Rom-Com she takes us through it all—with some pretty impactful insights along the way.

The book is half-memoir, half-self-help guide as Carrie reflects on all of the dating highs and lows of middle and high school, as well as the importance of self-love, confidence and learning to set boundaries—and your own relationship rules. It's often hilarious, always enlightening and real, and it's a fun read that's tough to put down. The book comes out this Tuesday, Sep. 19., and ahead of the big release day, we had the chance to chat with Carrie to learn all about My Real-Life Rom-Com and why this is her most important work yet.

Sweety High: Between your roles of being a content creator, author, actor and journalist, is there any one role that makes you most proud?

Carrie Berk: I am so grateful for all the opportunities I have been given. Although journalism is my endgame, I am very proud right now of my book. I worked so hard on it for three years, and the fact that it's finally coming out feels surreal. I don't think it's hit me yet.

 

SH: What was the inspiration behind My Real-Life Rom-Com? When did you realize you had this story that you needed to tell?

CB: It started off as a series of personal essays about my dating experiences for me and me only. I wanted to look back on them one day if I needed a reminder about lessons I learned in love. I soon realized that this project was so much greater than me. There are really no books out there about dating for teenagers written by teenagers—I wanted to fill the void. It is not a "dating guide" per se. Each chapter is dedicated to a different guy, a different adventure (or misadventure!) that I had in love. It's vulnerable, very honest, and also hilarious at times. I wanted to take readers on a journey and hopefully impart some lessons along the way.

(My Real-Life Rom-Com via Post Hill Press)

 

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SH: In what ways do you hope that sharing your own stories will empower and inspire others going through the ups and downs of their own relationships?

CB: In my memoir, I do not make myself out to be the hero. I made a lot of mistakes along the way. I hope that my honesty will show teens that the journey to finding love isn't always a straight line. Adulting is hard. Enjoy the journey, and if things go wrong (and they will), laugh about them. Or if you're like me, write about them. This is a really exciting time in life, and it's meant to be lived to the fullest.

 

SH: What would you say is your all-time funniest relationship story?

CB: In one chapter, I talk about how a guy I went on a date with asked me for Addison Rae's phone number. It was as if he forgot he was on a date with me! I also kissed a guy that had a fly on his tooth (so gross!). You're going to need to read the book to hear that full story.

 

SH: What have been your personal keys to discovering self-love? Any advice for others on learning to love themselves?

CB: I found self-love after I experienced anxiety for the first time in 2020. It made me realize that not every day is going to be perfect. Setting such unrealistic expectations will not serve you well. Try to do at least one thing every day that brings you joy and meaning. For me, that's getting a workout in—a Peloton class, a run, weight training. The more you surround yourself with people you love and hobbies you're passionate about, the more you'll be able to love yourself and appreciate life.

(Image courtesy of Carrie Berk)

 

Also read about: Fun Facts to Know About Blogger Carrie Berk

 

SH: What does it mean to you that you're now 21 books into your writing career? What does being able to share your stories mean to you, and what's next?

CB: This is my favorite piece of writing I've produced by far. It's my passion project. I always say the best writing is true writing, and I really hope my vulnerability will resonate with others. It is an honor to be able to share my unique experiences (particularly as an influencer pursuing romance) with others. In terms of what's next, I will be graduating college in the spring and start searching for a job in journalism.

 

SH: Is there anything else we should know?

CB: You can order My Real-Life Rom-Com on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart and Target.

 

For even more on Carrie, click HERE to read our interview with her on her Ask Emma book series.