I’m lucky. I finally figured out what I want to do for a living. (Umm, write.)
But I’m stuck. About 70% of my 9-to-5 job is writing – and I’ve learned a lot. But I know there’s a better lifestyle out there for me, with more money, if I could only figure out the freelancing thing.
(The main reason I want more time is because of these two cuties…)
Me and the boys playing minigolf this summer.
I just don’t know how to get it.
Inspiration Overload
I think I might be overinspired and underinstructed.
I belong to Third Tribe; I listen to Copyblogger podcasts; I scour Twitter for links to good copywriting articles. But no matter how much I read and listen, I remain exactly where I am.
I need a starting point. I need action steps. I need to figure out how to make the most of my extremely limited time.
An Idea
Yesterday I read this post by freelance author Carol Tice about how she makes over $5,000/month from blogging. Since I write a corporate blog for my 9-to-5 job, this really speaks to me. This seems like something I could actually do.
But I noticed something else on Carol’s page – something that might turn this from another case of futile inspiration into a thrilling journey into real-life instruction.
Carol is a writing mentor.
If I were to hire a mentor, I could actually form a plan. Take steps. Send out query letters. Maybe (gulp) strategize on how to freelance full-time and not starve.
Until I can afford a mentor, I think my best bet is to keep blogging, keep reading, keep tweeting – and try to keep the faith.
And when I CAN afford one, baby – I’m going to make this work.
P.S. I just read a great post by IttyBiz that touches on this: “There’s No Teacher.” Of course I want there to be a teacher, but on the other hand, if someone as successful as Naomi Dunford can feel this way, then I’m not so alone.
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Susannah –
I would LOVE to help you go freelance! Sounds like you’re well positioned with great experience.
Have you considered asking your 9-5 job if they would let you do that 75% writing part as a contractor? Then, presto! You’re freelancing, and already have a big chunk of income lined up. You can build it from there.
I want you to be home with your kids! Once I went freelance, I wondered why I waited so long. I was still a staffer when we adopted our 3rd child, who came out of foster care and was 16 months old…and I was working 4 days a week in Seattle! Once I stopped, it just seemed crazy.
Now, I never miss a play or soccer game…it’s just the way it needs to be for moms.
Why don’t you email me…maybe we can figure out something that works for you.
Whoa. $5000 a month? I’m clearly in need of a career change. Or maybe a career add-on. (I like my insurance benefits, considering my son’s life-threatening chronic illness, thanks.)
Hi Sus,
I say go for it. Have you contacted Victoria? She is on Facebook and her website is VictoriaNamkung.com. I know she could give you some great ideas. She would be great for you to talk to ….she also has skype if you do…you could speak “personally”. I wish you all the best.
Give the “cuties” a big hug from the tie dye meister.
Hey Susannah, They are indeed two cuties! The balance you seek is so elusive to us moms.
Hi Stella! I know – I hear it every day from my friends. It’s important to remember that so many of us are in this boat!
Aunt Marsha, you’re right – I did look up her blog once and I was very impressed by it. I’m going to write to her. Thank you! And I owe you an email!d (The boys still love and faithfully wear their tie dyes – and they also remember doing yoga with you and seeing you paint!)
Elizabeth, you are perhaps the most natural candidate for a full-time successful blogger of anyone I know. Just sayin’.
Carol, I just wrote you! THANK YOU! You made my day!