meet
POSTPOSITIONS ON PREPOSITIONS
by Brighid Tomasik
I am thrilled to introduce you to one of my biggest fans and supporters, my cousin, Brighid Tomasik. As one of many grandchildren of Dorothy Jane, it is only appropriate she gets the inaugural guest post. Brighid is a creative at heart and began her own blog "Postpositions on Prepositions" as a step towards creating her own successful editorial column. I think she is well on her way as she shares with her readers details about her life in true "Brighid" style.
WHAT IS YOUR DREAM? WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO PURSUE YOUR DREAM?
My dream is to begin a successful, clever, and quirky editorial (such as a regional magazine or paper) wherever I settle down. Another dream is to publish a series of non-fiction short stories somewhere down the road when I am a much wiser and better writer.
While pursuing my dream, I currently write at my blog called Postpositions on Prepositions. Luckily, it’s starting to get traffic and a few pieces have been published in HelloGiggles, Thought Catalog, and other publications.
Last year, I decided to return to writing professionally when I was teaching high school English at an arts school. I originally fell into teaching for very safe reasons: It was a trade. I wanted a higher education. And I thought that I would be a much better writer through teaching. Unfortunately, I felt myself zapped of energy with teaching and knew that if I wanted to pursue writing seriously, then I would need it as a career--especially if I want to become a published writer in many other avenues.
ARE YOU STILL WORKING FULL-TIME? HOW DO YOU FIND THAT BALANCE?
I currently work full-time as managing editor to the entire communications department at a well-known nonprofit in north Scottsdale. This includes the community newspaper, website, editorial for social media, and all other forms of their publications.
Fortunately, my dream is the perfect mix of my dream career and my favorite hobby. The only thing I would change at work is the type of content that I create. Therefore, I feel like I’m learning just what I need to in order to make things happen for me in the future. For example, how to manage a publication, proactively working with freelancers and designers, and maintaining a critical eye for editorial in keeping up with successful trends. Plus, I work with a stellar editorial team (my mentor is a former local Fox News anchor from St. Louis), so I know that I’m learning a ton.
Is there such as thing as balance? Hm, let’s see: I typically spend time after work writing for PoP, or reading a million different articles online. Blogs are successful when they’re updated often; readers feel left out if they’re returning to a space time after time, but nothing is fresh. I attempt to be credible by updating often and leaving genuine comments to my readers.
One of the best tips that I received is to blog on Sundays (or any free day) if you have a busy workweek. Spread that time throughout the week to make a post. I’m grateful for all the free applications out there to make that manageable. For example, you can use HootSuite to update the social media on your blog in an organized and timely manner.
When I’m at home blogging or writing other items, my official uniform is Target pajamas and while wrapped in a comfy blanket.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST DIFFICULT AND EXCITING PART ABOUT PURSUING YOUR DREAM?
Letting go of expectations of myself and learning how to take me seriously as a professional. I am truly very skilled at doubting myself, but the more that I put myself out there: taking time to write, submitting the work to publications, and getting positive reactions--it’s definitely gratifying to see my hard work published and paying off!
CAN YOU NAME THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU'VE LEARNED?
Letting go of what people think about you. Getting to know myself better is the biggest lesson that I’ve learned and I genuinely love the experience.
With the topics and subjects that matter the most to me, I think about the majority of people in my life who would feel opposite. I don’t want to box myself into other people’s expectations of myself, so it’s freeing to be who I am now and share my thoughts and experiences with others. I might be someone else tomorrow or in 10 years, but I think that’s the most important lesson a writer should adopt.
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE TOP 3 THINGS SOMEONE SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE PURSUING THEIR OWN DREAM?
Just do it
I love this story: A man devoutly prayed daily to a statue of a specific saint (name currently forgotten!) at a fountain. “Please, please, please: let me win the lottery,” the man begged.
Everyday the man returned to the fountain on his way home from work with the same wish until one day, after many years, the statue came to life and said, “Please, please, please: purchase a ticket!”
True story. Maybe.
Even though my dream is still coming to life, I feel like it’s been a mix of hard work and talent. You’re responsible for everything in your life, so if you want something to happen then you need to be proactive and find creative ways to make it possible.
There’s more to wishing, “Please, please, please: let me be a writer and get published.” Find publications that have your voice, your style, your charm and submit your work. The most you’ll get is a rejection letter which is still pretty good if they’re giving you enough energy to know that. (Hopefully, if it’s not an automatic reply!)
Have goals for growth
Create a solid vision of that dream and faithfully follow it. It’s probably like expectations--you can hold yourself to them, but you’ll most likely break them. Therefore, set small goals and accomplish them.
Keep on trend and always be open to learning
Right now, I feel like I’m “paying my dues” as to where I am right now. It’s so difficult to visualize the future. In a year, I might be in Phoenix or Portland, but I just want to absorb every move before starting my own thing. I’m a cautious cat.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU? HOW ARE YOU INSPIRED?
I’m inspired by smart, witty, honest, reflective writing.
When I want to do something, I typically tell someone who will hold me to it. I can be competitive and it helps me reach that goal. That’s definitely inspiring.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE IN 5 WORDS?
A delightfully offbeat young lady.
WHAT BUSINESS BOOKS/RESOURCES WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO SOMEONE STARTING A CREATIVE BUSINESS OF THEIR OWN?
For bloggers, I suggest that you meet other bloggers in your area. You know, face to face. Get a business card for your blog and connect with others in the area who will help your little online corner flourish.
If there’s not one in your area, it’s probably a great opportunity to begin one yourself. Research how bloggers put on mixers and find sponsors to pay for it!
Maiedae had a beyond fantastic example of this: http://maiedae.com/
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PURSUING YOUR DREAM?
VISIT BRIGHID'S PORTFOLIO OF CREATIVE WRITING
http://postpositions.blogspot.com/p/portfolio.html
My dream is to begin a successful, clever, and quirky editorial (such as a regional magazine or paper) wherever I settle down. Another dream is to publish a series of non-fiction short stories somewhere down the road when I am a much wiser and better writer.
While pursuing my dream, I currently write at my blog called Postpositions on Prepositions. Luckily, it’s starting to get traffic and a few pieces have been published in HelloGiggles, Thought Catalog, and other publications.
Last year, I decided to return to writing professionally when I was teaching high school English at an arts school. I originally fell into teaching for very safe reasons: It was a trade. I wanted a higher education. And I thought that I would be a much better writer through teaching. Unfortunately, I felt myself zapped of energy with teaching and knew that if I wanted to pursue writing seriously, then I would need it as a career--especially if I want to become a published writer in many other avenues.
ARE YOU STILL WORKING FULL-TIME? HOW DO YOU FIND THAT BALANCE?
I currently work full-time as managing editor to the entire communications department at a well-known nonprofit in north Scottsdale. This includes the community newspaper, website, editorial for social media, and all other forms of their publications.
Fortunately, my dream is the perfect mix of my dream career and my favorite hobby. The only thing I would change at work is the type of content that I create. Therefore, I feel like I’m learning just what I need to in order to make things happen for me in the future. For example, how to manage a publication, proactively working with freelancers and designers, and maintaining a critical eye for editorial in keeping up with successful trends. Plus, I work with a stellar editorial team (my mentor is a former local Fox News anchor from St. Louis), so I know that I’m learning a ton.
Is there such as thing as balance? Hm, let’s see: I typically spend time after work writing for PoP, or reading a million different articles online. Blogs are successful when they’re updated often; readers feel left out if they’re returning to a space time after time, but nothing is fresh. I attempt to be credible by updating often and leaving genuine comments to my readers.
One of the best tips that I received is to blog on Sundays (or any free day) if you have a busy workweek. Spread that time throughout the week to make a post. I’m grateful for all the free applications out there to make that manageable. For example, you can use HootSuite to update the social media on your blog in an organized and timely manner.
WHERE DOES YOUR DREAM COME TO LIFE?
This little spot helps me accomplish big tasks at work with Ranch News, social media, and other forms of communications.
When I’m at home blogging or writing other items, my official uniform is Target pajamas and while wrapped in a comfy blanket.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST DIFFICULT AND EXCITING PART ABOUT PURSUING YOUR DREAM?
Letting go of expectations of myself and learning how to take me seriously as a professional. I am truly very skilled at doubting myself, but the more that I put myself out there: taking time to write, submitting the work to publications, and getting positive reactions--it’s definitely gratifying to see my hard work published and paying off!
CAN YOU NAME THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU'VE LEARNED?
Letting go of what people think about you. Getting to know myself better is the biggest lesson that I’ve learned and I genuinely love the experience.
With the topics and subjects that matter the most to me, I think about the majority of people in my life who would feel opposite. I don’t want to box myself into other people’s expectations of myself, so it’s freeing to be who I am now and share my thoughts and experiences with others. I might be someone else tomorrow or in 10 years, but I think that’s the most important lesson a writer should adopt.
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE TOP 3 THINGS SOMEONE SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE PURSUING THEIR OWN DREAM?
Just do it
I love this story: A man devoutly prayed daily to a statue of a specific saint (name currently forgotten!) at a fountain. “Please, please, please: let me win the lottery,” the man begged.
Everyday the man returned to the fountain on his way home from work with the same wish until one day, after many years, the statue came to life and said, “Please, please, please: purchase a ticket!”
True story. Maybe.
Even though my dream is still coming to life, I feel like it’s been a mix of hard work and talent. You’re responsible for everything in your life, so if you want something to happen then you need to be proactive and find creative ways to make it possible.
There’s more to wishing, “Please, please, please: let me be a writer and get published.” Find publications that have your voice, your style, your charm and submit your work. The most you’ll get is a rejection letter which is still pretty good if they’re giving you enough energy to know that. (Hopefully, if it’s not an automatic reply!)
Have goals for growth
Create a solid vision of that dream and faithfully follow it. It’s probably like expectations--you can hold yourself to them, but you’ll most likely break them. Therefore, set small goals and accomplish them.
Keep on trend and always be open to learning
Right now, I feel like I’m “paying my dues” as to where I am right now. It’s so difficult to visualize the future. In a year, I might be in Phoenix or Portland, but I just want to absorb every move before starting my own thing. I’m a cautious cat.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU? HOW ARE YOU INSPIRED?
I’m inspired by smart, witty, honest, reflective writing.
I’m inspired by creative, quirky, weird thoughts that make me laugh and feel connected to someone.
I’m inspired by people who are genuine and not afraid to say real things, even if philosophies clash.
I’m inspired by people doing their own thing.
When I want to do something, I typically tell someone who will hold me to it. I can be competitive and it helps me reach that goal. That’s definitely inspiring.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE IN 5 WORDS?
A delightfully offbeat young lady.
WHAT BUSINESS BOOKS/RESOURCES WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO SOMEONE STARTING A CREATIVE BUSINESS OF THEIR OWN?
For bloggers, I suggest that you meet other bloggers in your area. You know, face to face. Get a business card for your blog and connect with others in the area who will help your little online corner flourish.
If there’s not one in your area, it’s probably a great opportunity to begin one yourself. Research how bloggers put on mixers and find sponsors to pay for it!
Maiedae had a beyond fantastic example of this: http://maiedae.com/
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PURSUING YOUR DREAM?
VISIT BRIGHID'S PORTFOLIO OF CREATIVE WRITING
http://postpositions.blogspot.com/p/portfolio.html
As a fellow writer, I can identify with so much of this! Especially setting small goals and achieving them (to build confidence in oneself!) and making sure you "purchase your ticket" (meaning give yourself that chance to win the lottery). Great interview, gals. :)
ReplyDeleteHopefully, that lottery will be won someday... for all proactive writers! ;)
DeleteHopefully, that lottery will be won someday... for all proactive writers! ;)
DeleteGreat resources for bloggers (and courageous dreamers) in this interview, both through practical means and through genuine words of wisdom!
ReplyDelete