I received this email from author, Pam Kumpe yesterday and I thought my blog readers would like, yet, another perspective on writing. Pam shares with us some of the insecurities she experienced at the thought of putting herself out there through her writing. And then she fills us in about her successes. I think that her story is inspiring and interesting. So I invited Pam to be my guest blogger this morning. Here’s Pam Kumpe:
“Today I’m known as ‘The Funny Newspaper Woman’ in my area of East Texas. I’ve spent the past 10 years working as a correspondent for a newspaper, writing features, snapping photos and writing my inspirational column for a general market paper, Bowie County Life/Texarkana Gazette.
My journey began with writing in journals, and some stints writing newsletters. Then I wrote some magazine articles, and pieces for a few online publications.
However, my fearful attitude kept me from wearing a ‘brave badge.’ We all have a brave badge, you know, that invisible dose of ‘confidence’ where we find out what works and what doesn’t.
Anyway, just prior to writing for the newspaper, I pulled out those words written over the years in my dozen or so journals, the ones tucked away in a decorative box.
I’d always struggled with shyness, due to having an outspoken twin who was my ‘voice’ for many years. But, when she moved away, I had to talk. I suppose, I’m making up for lost time. I haven’t stopped talking since, and when I write, it’s a silent way of using my gift of gab.
Since my emerging with a brave badge, I’ve written more than a thousand features and hundreds of news pieces. I also go out and speak to groups of people on topics of inspiration and humor.
Next month, my first book, See You in The Funny Papers: A Bit of Good News, comes out. This was a requested book. People told me over and over how much they enjoyed my talks and that they wanted more. Last year, I began to gather up my favorite fun columns, added a few, bought some cartoons, hired an artist for the cover, and had my manuscript edited. I set up my own publishing company, yes I’m the only client, but I’ve published this book myself.
What I learned during this journey is invaluable. My stories have new life. I have a product. I created the best book I could, taking my time, doing my research, and hiring quality people to produce it. I outsourced for those items I couldn’t do, which is why this book is the best that I can offer.
And for that I am excited. Isn’t it interesting how a phone call 10 years ago from the newspaper publisher, asking me to write a column, started this entire journey?
My advice for those who are scared is, Go. Walk. Call. Be ready. Write. Start a podcast (Yes, I have that too). Do a newsletter. Be proactive. Write some more.
Oh, and find your own voice. My real voice isn’t terribly deep, as I’m not filled with wisdom, but then again, my fun-light stories are there to make you smile. Maybe that’s what we need more of, because with all the news in the forefront, we can use a good laugh.
Enough rambling, I’ve got a feature to write!”
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Your Pray & Play Friend,
Pam Kumpe
http://www.pamkumpe.com
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Don’t forget that I’m offering a discount on my online, on-demand courses for those who sign up this week. Sign up today for my article-writing, book proposal, self-publishing or book promotion course and save. Email me at PLFry620@yahoo.com for more information. And let me know if you’d like to be a guest columnist at my Writing Publishing News Blog.
Very nice article, Pam. I too find writing as a way of expressing myself. (I’m not as shy as I once was, but I still find it easier to write than to talk!) And, how exciting to have a book coming out! I’m in waiting mode for mine–I hope Cowgirl Dreams (a novel based on my grandmother) will be published sometime early next year.
Keep on writing!
Heidi Thomas
http://heidiwriter.wordpress.com