by James Chartrand
When you first realize that you’re going to do something you’ve always dreamed about, it’s exciting. The feelings that swirl around and the obvious potential fills your mind. You’re doing it. You’re going to be a freelance writer. You’re on your way – finally!
After a few weeks, or months, or maybe even a year or two, you might realize that you’re feeling blasé. Okay, yes, you love your job, and being a writer is great, but the shine has gone out of it.
It’s a job, more or less.
Then what? Well, then you have choices to make. You can find another bright new shiny to chase, or you can sit down and have a good think.
Here are five questions to ask yourself when you realize that freelance writing is nothing more than just a job like any other:
- Have you gotten off track? Sometimes, we take on work that we really didn’t enjoy doing, but the lure of money or fame or an opportunity sometimes takes us away from our vision. Take a look at what you like and don’t like work on, and cut the yucky stuff out.
- Have you realized it isn’t all fun? Some aspects of freelance writing aren’t as enjoyable as others are. This is a time to contemplate what your expectations were and come to terms that life isn’t always a fantasy dream. Then find someone who does enjoy the tasks you don’t like, and outsource or partner up.
- Are there obstacles? Every job presents challenges that might be holding you back from fully enjoying your work. Figure out what you need to do to overcome the barriers, like taking a course or getting help with frustrating problems.
- Do you have support? A common complaint freelance writers have is the lack of support shown by friends and family. Distractions and interruptions happen frequently. Then there’s the “real” job issue that comes into play. Have a talk with those you care about and ask for more understanding, or find support from other writers on forums or blogs.
- Is this really what you want? Some people search desperately for a career that fulfills them 100%. That’s a great goal – and freelance writing may not be what truly makes you feel complete. Examine what aspects of the job do strike a chord and see if there isn’t a similar career that wouldn’t suit your personality better.
There are plenty of other questions that you can ask yourself when you feel the tarnish clouding the sparkle. Listen to your heart and don’t be afraid to examine your spirit from time to time. You just may find that a little thought opens up a world of hope to rekindle that spark.
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