Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Schmer.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I always wanted to be a writer and get my Master’s degree, but I went into the Air Force first, worked for 11 years then went back to school. Spent ten years straight in school. I graduated at 40 and started my new career as a Technical Writer. It’s never too late to start living your dream. I wrote 811 Standard Operating Procedures and left a writing legacy. I am honored to be a guest speaker at CSUF for both the English and Humanities departments. I retired after working 30 years straight and now focus on my website, blog and social media.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Yes, many obstacles. I worked full time and went to school full time. I freelanced for many publications to get practice and exposure within the local community. I hustled for years and it eventually paid off. I never lost sight of my goal/dream: get paid to write. I was broke for ten years, but I knew my efforts would be worth it. As a writer, you have to practice writing a lot and read as much as possible. Freelancing and blogging are so much easier now. The network and community of writers are everywhere. Most of us are mentors. Never be afraid to ask if someone will mentor or look over your work.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
In the Air Force, we had a saying, “Live by the SOP, die by the SOP.” When I write a training/procedural document, I take it very seriously. Safety is my first concern. I used to fly helicopters so following procedures is tantamount to staying alive. I was very proud of my training materials and my teams knew I was serious and passionate about my work.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
1)My mom when I was a child and teenager.
2)Christine Amanpour,
3)Natalie Goldberg “Writing Down the Bones”
4)My best friend, Lora Cisneros, because she’s a full-time teacher, mom of two and wife. I don’t know how she does it all.
5)My personal trainer, Wendy LaFayette.
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