2011, My Published Year

Today is my first official day working as a freelance writer for 2012. I thought I’m “late” but  my friend Johnrev, tweeted me that ” writing has a life (and a time) of its own, never too late nor too early for “work”. I love the line!

I started my “day” writing my goals for this year and limited the number to 5. More than that means I am imbecile to accomplish those goals. I want to be realistic. As I look forward to this year, I tried to play a flashback on my freelance writer career circa 2011. Luckily, I deserve a pat on my back.

Every writer aspires to have his/her work published and I did it. Not once, not twice but four times. In two inflight magazines. I don’t want to be accused of blowing my own horns here so just check out my portfolio if you are interested.

While cleaning up my home office ( which is on top of my list for 2012), I stumbled on some notes. Listed on number 4 is “to land a contract with a magazine”. I smiled. The year was 2010. I got published on magazines even if it took longer than I aimed for. Still, I smiled.

That very moment, I realized that dreams are not just ” wishful thinking’s” if you put your heart on it. Believe it or not, I wished on it when I saw a falling star ( yes, I still see them here in our place) and prayed. And if you dream of becoming a travel writer, it takes guts to get published. And I thank my Mom for giving me that.

Getting published is very honorable especially when you receive feedback from someone you don’t personally know. And one of the best compliments I had is when I read people discussing my article in a forum – how happy they are that someone took notice and wrote about their place. As a travel writer, it gives joy to share something to a wider audience not just to my travel buddies. To let people appreciate something, to place something or someone on a pedestal that they truly deserve.

I thank 2011 but pushing my freelance writer career up and I wish to stay on that step. I hope that 2012 means more travel stories to share with you guys!