When I was fresh out of college and looking for my first job as a reporter I would send off cover letters that started like this: The most important thing you need to know about me is that I love to write. I thrive on it!
OK, so sometimes I still introduce myself like that. *blush* But seriously, I can't remember a time when I didn't identify myself as a writer. Can't remember a time when I didn't read published authors with awe and envy. Can't remember a time when I didn't want to be a better writer.
I've worked hard to get where I am. As a writer and editor. And I'm proud of that. And I still thrive on writing. I have a list of blog posts that I want to write up, and can still think of the plots of the two short stories I have had brewing for years.
But something else is taking over. Well, not really taking over, but definitely vying for my attention. And I'm so psyched about it! And I'm desperate to be with my photography career where I already am with my writing career. (I've told you that I'm impatient, right?)
What's interesting to me is that I can't remember going after my writing career with the same gusto and passion that I am with my photography. And perhaps it's just the difference in circumstances. I have a degree in journalism and English. So putting myself out there to prospective employers was a little easier with a college degree to back me up.
Now, as I find myself actually admitting that I'm attempting to build a side business (instead of saying I'm *only* a photography hobbiest) I'm incredibly drawn to marketing materials and thoughts of how to get my name out there and who I can beg to hire me. Not to mention that I want to tackle every parent I see and force them to take one of my business cards!
I don't feel as intimidated at this point in my photography career as I seem to remember being in my writing and editing career. Sure, I've learned a lot about making connections simply by living, but I have found it a lot more easy than I expected to be able to walk up to someone I may only know casually -- or may have just met at the pool while there with the kids -- and hand them a flyer about my photography.
I'm enjoying this. And anxious for people to start beating a path to my door!
Hi. Michelle, I too love to write, that's why I spend soooo much time at this laptop. I love to communicate with/to people and encourage them along the way. There was a time though (5-30 years of my life) when I only talked if another person asked me a direct QUESTION, conversational comments were not an invitation for my in-put (actually I had none to give).
Taking Journalism in high school was a very big encouragement for me to get my thoughts on paper, even if they were quoted from others. The course gave me the structure of 5W 1H (Who What Where When Why How)which has stuck with me all these (50+) years since. May this week's end be fruitful in relaxation and that a walk in the sun and Son shine will be a real encouragement in your life.
I can almost feel the enthusiasm coming out of your blog for your passion of photography in addition to your writing abilities.
It is truly an inspiration that you are showing me that just because I have diabetes, it doesn't mean I should just settle for the status quo if there is really something else out there I can also be doing that will enrich my life and bring happiness and sense of fulfillment.
I have always believed, "If you don't pursue your passions, you will always wonder what would have happened if you did."