Embracing the Art of Patience: Kimberly Angelique Thompson on Creative Fulfillment and Staying True to Your Vision

by:

October 7, 2024

In this inspiring interview, we delve into the creative journey of Kimberly Angelique Thompson, whose passion for poetry began in fifth grade, winning her first competitions with a unique blend of talent and determination. Kimberly's story is a testament to the power of prioritizing art over financial gain and finding fulfillment in personal merit rather than monetary success. She candidly shares how patience, self-doubt, and external pressures have shaped her path, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's creative vision. From designing the cover of her first book to balancing creative passions with financial stability, Kimberly offers valuable insights and encouragement for women navigating their own artistic and entrepreneurial pursuits.

What inspired you to start writing poetry and pursue self-publishing?

In fifth grade, my school would host quarterly poetry competitions. I won every single one I entered (3/4... I forgot the poem at home the fourth time lol).
How did you handle the external pressure to achieve financial success quickly?

I listened to my dad and got my priorities straight: art first, then money!
How has your experience with writing and publishing impacted your view on success and personal fulfillment?

I've learned that success isn't measured by finance but by merit. It's something I remind myself of every day, with help from my support system.
What role did patience play in your journey, and how did you cultivate it?

It took me four months to write these poems. I didn't know when I was going to be done until I wrote the last poem in the book and something just said, "stop".
How did you manage self-doubt and stay motivated despite external pressures?

I had to stop comparing myself to what others measure as being successful. Success is not about money, although money would be nice. It's about passion.
What was the most rewarding aspect of releasing your first book?

Seeing it in my hands. Knowing I designed the cover myself, and it's the way I had imagined it. It's not too thin, the cover is smooth and sultry... just like my words.
How do you balance your creative passions with the need for financial stability?

Remember that I'm working towards something. Putting my creativity first! This is a legacy I'm building, and I have to be proud of it. I have to put love into it as well as nurture. What's the point of selling my poetry, sharing a part of myself with the world only for money? No, I want to be a tidal wave for the hearts of men. I want to move people. But then it comes full circle and I realize that to share this book, I will have to market so it gets out there. I guess the circle just keeps going.
What advice would you give to other women who are facing similar challenges in their creative or entrepreneurial pursuits?

Keep your passion(s) your focus. Remember if you're not enjoying it, you need to take a break.
How has your personal journey of rewriting your story influenced your writing?

My poetry book, "The Way I Love D'Artagnan" by Kimberly Thompson (on Amazon) is about my ideal version of love, and how I truly process it. I've been in so many bad romances, that when I experienced what caused me to write this book, I was enthralled. I had to write it out.
What strategies do you use to maintain mental well-being while managing creative projects? Honestly? Exercise, comfort food and meditation. Self-care!
How do you stay true to your creative vision despite external expectations?

I've had people attempt to pressure me to rush into opening a restaurant or start a cooking channel online instead of waiting for the cookbook I'm writing to come out. The impatience! Much like my poetry book, my cookbook is a passion project and I want to get it right the first time. I'm not rushing anything I don't feel moved to rush. I did release an album ("The Gaming Chair: After Hours" by Meadow... my musician name) and while the instrumentals are how I wanted them, the vocals were very raw. But since I really wanted to share it, I did. I'm a Renaissance woman, I just go where my heart leads.
Can you describe a significant learning moment from your self-publishing journey?

Do your research... and when you think you've done it all, double-check.
What future projects or goals are you excited about?

Well, now you know about my cookbook and my album but I also have a very raw coloring fashion coloring book in the works.
How can women support each other in navigating the pressures of creative and professional success?

We can share each other's work on our social media pages, share each other's excerpts, let passion lead the way and when someone genuinely sparks your interest, show it!