Memoirs of the Crazy Paper Lady: Introduction

Yes, I am the crazy paper lady that drives insane speeds through your subdivision, taking the cul-de-sac's backwards and talking to your pets, all before you rise from your peaceful night's slumber.

I have delivered a daily newspaper off and on for about five years now. I was told by my first manager that "Papers get into your blood and you can't get them out." I thought she was crazy but I now know exactly what she meant. I leave the papers "for good this time" and I always seem to go back.

For the time that you put into the job, it really is good money. How many people do you know that make an average full day's salary in 2-3 hours aside from doctors, pharmacists, attorneys and the like? I've known people who have run several paper routes with several different papers, at the same time, and walked away with $1000/wk. Not bad money for what's not even a normal 8 hour day's work. I'm not saying that you're going to get rich by delivering a newspaper. It's good money, but it's not an easy lifestyle, either. Most publications are printed 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Yes, we work all holidays and our holidays are usually bigger papers and are sent out to all subscribers. You are also an independent contractor which means no benefits, no paid vacation, no days off at all as a matter of fact. If you want to take a day off, you have to train someone to do your route, someone you trust not to miss people, and you have to pay them. Overall, it's not that hard of a job, but it isn't for everyone.

I've once said that it takes a pretty special person to be fired from delivering a newspaper but I've seen it happen plenty of times. It definitely takes determination and the ability to live with sleep deprivation and the ability to entertain yourself so as not to fall asleep while working, to be a successful carrier.

The following chapters are a compilation of the things I've learned and seen while delivering your newspaper for the past five years. I hope you enjoy!

Chapter Two is entitled "Helpful Hints for Getting the Service You're Paying For". This is a must read for anyone that pays to have a newspaper delivered to their home or business.