Is it because the rent’s due? You like to see your name in print? It’s a part of a bigger plan of total world domination? You’d anything not to go back to a corporate job?
Think about it, we write article after article here at FWJ discussing the best way to write an article, interview techniques, source cultivating, how to make money at the craft, the pros and cons of freelance writing, etc. Today I ask, “What is your motivation?”
Some of us are adrift. We write the articles, we send the invoices, we look for more work. A lot of us are very successful at our jobs. We put food on the table, pay the bills and have a little left over to buy gadgets that we swear is mainly for business purchases. More of us are lacking realistic goals for our freelance writing career.
Guess what? Paying the bills is not enough. It’s an important goal, nothing like flicking a switch and the lights coming on, but I’ve realized to say you’re a freelance writer has to mean something more, otherwise, go back, update the resume and plug yourself back into the Matrix.
My confession? I’ve lost sight of my goals. Which is why I have just recently let go several clients and spent time looking in the mental mirror. I had begun to feel like I did when I worked my hellish corporate job – no choice, little joy, over-scheduled, under motivated and under appreciated. A few health scares among my family has also given me a bit of a gut check.
Folks, life is too short, find your passion and use your writing to get you there. As a matter of fact, I dare you to declare it here an now: What are your goals? How will writing help you meet them?
My passions are writing, teaching, learning and my interests include media matters and issues that affect women and children. I will use my writing to:
- Teach writers about freelancing here at FWJ.
- Write articles on media/women/children.
- Teach small businesses how effectively use their written materials for success.
- Study for my PhD in Women Studies
- Teach at the college level on media matters and how they affect women and children.
- Write the four books that have been dancing through my head for the last few years.
Will I still worry about the pay – of course. My time is valuable and my kids’ seem to want to eat every day, several times a day. Will I allow it to drive me to insanity? Heck no! Chasing a dollar is not the same as chasing a dream.
Take the challenge! Post below your answer to: What are your goals? How will writing take you there?
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