Writing Success

You’re a Freelance Writer?

Most people don’t understand what it means to be a freelance writer. If you’re lucky, you will be surrounded by friends and family members who are willing to ask questions and understand what you do. In my case, my family didn’t really take me seriously until I said, “I’m quitting my job to write.” Even my former employer was all ears when I gave my notice. Unfortunately, telling people that you work from home as a freelance writer has its pitfalls.

For starters, some people assume you have a ton of free time on your hands. This is far from the case. As a matter of fact, I have less free time now than I’ve ever had in my entire life. I work longer hours, earn a little bit less than I was at my day job (the pitfalls of starting a new business), and have less time to play. On the upside, I’m not nearly as stressed as I was while working for someone else.

One of the problems I had when I was starting out was that my family assumed I’d be able to do extra things for them during the day simply because I was “home.” Well, I may be home, but I’m in my “home office.” That means that while I will certainly take advantage of my freedom to help my grandmom get her medication when she doesn’t feel well, I can’t start picking the kids up from school on a bright sunny day, go on bus trips, or spend the day in the mall. It’s just not gonna happen. I had to quickly draw the line and keep reminding them that I was “working” during the day. The novelty of knowing I was at home eventually wore off.

Others assume (incorrectly) that writers don’t have real jobs. Last I checked, a real job enables you to keep a roof over your head, pay the utilities, and put food on the table. Therefore, I have a real job.

What’s the point of this rant? Don’t let anyone discourage you from becoming a writer because of the type of schedule you work, where you work, or the amount of money you bring home. Those who love what they do find that things have a way of working themselves out; and no good career ever started without a little bit of hard work. Have faith in yourself and you’ll soon enjoy a very successful freelance writing career.