Developing Professional Writing Habits
Sustaining Needed Discipline to be a Successful Freelance Writer
Nov 7, 2009
Many aspiring writers dream of making a living freelance writing. The good news is, today opportunities abound for freelance writers, particularly since there are numerous online freelance writing jobs. The bad news is, regardless of how many writing jobs are available today, it's impossible to be a successful freelancer without discipline and hard work.
Hone Professional Writing Skills
Growth as a writer is an important aspect of being a professional writer. Professional writers are willing to invest time and effort into honing writing skills. For some, that simply means checking out books from the library and diligently studying and applying what is learned. Others may hire a writing coach and some freelance writers may choose to enter professional writing programs. Professional writing programs are not absolutely required to be a successful freelance writer, but they can be helpful in working toward that goal. Professional writing programs can be found at local community colleges and through writers’ guilds.
Whether someone on the road to becoming a professional writer chooses to develop professional writing skills formally or informally, one thing is certain; successful writing requires a desire to learn and grow, not to mention a willingness to accept constructive criticism.
Set a Writing Schedule and Stick to It
Professional writers don’t sit around and wait for inspiration to strike. For the true professional, there is no such thing as writer’s block. Writer’s block is simply an excuse that must be pushed out of the way by professional writers.
Instead of giving in to the notion of writer’s block, establish a writing routine and stick with it. For best results, write daily. Daily writing for even short periods of time such as 15 minutes can do wonders to productivity because it helps develop solid writing habits.
At times of perceived writer’s block, resort to freewriting. Simply set the timer for 15 minutes and write like a maniac, without worrying about quality of writing. Even writing things such as, “I can’t think of anything to write. I don’t feel like writing. This is stupid” can prime the pump. Once the pressure of producing quality writing has been removed, the words flow easily. Fifteen minutes of freewriting generally results in some great ideas that can be the start of a story or article.
Be Willing to Start Small as a Freelance Writer
Though by definition professional freelance writers make a living writing, at the beginning, earnings as a freelancer may be quite small, particularly with online writing jobs.
Writers who are willing to do the grunt work needed at the beginning of their careers will reap benefits over the long haul. Although it’s important to evaluate various writing options, not giving up too easily is part of the discipline that it is required to write professionally.
Successful freelance writing requires the development of professional writing skills, the discipline to stick to a writing schedule, and a willingness to start small. Disciplined professional writers have a bright future ahead of them, particularly with the abundance of online writing jobs.
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