Common Misconceptions About Freelance Writing

Freelance writing is often perceived in one of two ways. It is idealized because you get to work out of the comfort of your own home, no more work clothes, no more dealing with an unfair boss and no more waking up at the crack of dawn to get to work before 9am, you expect people to hire you just because you have given yourself the title of freelance writer. Or it is perceived as an opportunity to be lazy and lounge around in your pajamas all day flicking back and forth from HGTV and the food channel, while just expecting the cash to roll into your bank account without working for it. There is something very wrong with looking at freelance writing from either of those standpoints, they are both inaccurate. Being a freelance writer won't be anything like those two examples.

Problem with the First Scenario

The first scenario is completely idealized. Being a freelance writer is hard work, in most cases harder work than having a job that includes the insensitive boss, commuting, uncomfortable work clothes and early morning wakes. The most difficult part of being a freelance writer is being self employed, which by most is considered the biggest perk. Being self employed means that you have to find work for yourself, constantly. If it sounds easy to you, don't be fooled because it is far from easy. Unless you possess superior marketing skills, you will most likely be clueless at finding freelance writing jobs. One option is bid sites, but then again, there are so many other clueless writers on those sites trying to outbid you (outbid on bid sites means bid lower than you- not higher). You need to know where to look for decent paying freelance writing gigs and how to go about it. You must approach potential clients with ease and professionalism.

Problem with the Second Scenario

The honest truth is, when you are self employed the tasks of your day and their completion are at the mercy of your determination. If you want to lounge around on your couch for the entire day, that is your choice. But if you choose to lounge around all day rather than actually work, don't expect your bills to be paid at the end of the month, or to even contribute considerable funds to your overall household income. You have to remember working from home actually requires you to work while you're at home. To be as productive as possible, I advise you to set up a daily work schedule for yourself and stick to it. While the schedule is in effect absolutely no sleeping, lying down, chatting on the phone with friends, cleaning or cooking. Don't do anything that you wouldn't feel comfortable doing in a traditional office.