How to Follow Your Passion and Pen, the "Write" Way

For as long as I remember, I have been writing. My only regret is that I delayed acting on this hobby, and to turn it into a vocation. I have two books started, but little time to work on them. I used my abilities at a car magazine some years ago. I also worked for a local newspaper, in which I wore many hats. I designed ads, covered local events and wrote articles. I took photographs and assisted in composing and paginating our weekly paper. Emails I send are like short stories, because the words just flood out of my head into my fingers. Gift or curse, it depends on who has to read them! As long as I can use my hands, and my head, I shall write.

I am inspired by many things. Many of which do not realize their affect on me. As a writer, my emotions and reactions to life experiences influence what I write. I believe I put a little of myself in my characters, as well as who I'd like to be. As a young writer, my experiences were limited so I had to draw more from my imagination. This of course was excellent practice for building my creativity. I am thankful to my teachers who encouraged me. As a teen, I kept a diary about all my emotions, experiences and dreams. There I wrote my first poems. We didn't have web sites then to blog, vent, or share. We kept our diaries under lock and key, rarely sharing those private thoughts. Now it seems, people are very willing to share their innermost thoughts with the whole world. Some I admit, should remain in their minds. But for many, it is quite enlightening.

My suggestion for any writer, is that you follow your interests, for a start. For example, if you love travel, and you can't wait to get home to put your memories into your journal, why not take it to the next level? Find a newspaper with community pages or travel guides. Start a travel blog online. There are many ways to share your adventures with others. Who knows, you may end up doing features for a travel magazine!

I'm always looking for new ways to create something. Whether it is by lens, pen (or keyboard), or artistry, my passions for these things are relentless. So many individuals possess untapped talents, simply because they were unaware that their passions could become creative outlets. If I could encourage anyone to open themselves up to their preoccupation with these passions, I would feel a great accomplishment.