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| Image snapped from The 22 Day Revolution book. |
When I go to author talks or writing conventions at least one doe-eyed student still discovering her voice asks, "How do I really become a writer?"
Sorry, but, that question always makes me groan.
I've mentioned Cheryl Strayed's take on that, in which she basically says to be a writer you must write. I've really grasped tightly to that sentiment since I read it only a few months ago. I don't always stick to it. I have whined and cried about the fact that I've not done the amount of writing I wanted to since moving to Portland.
But, I have been paying the rent with other writing, and I'd say that's a success. Here are my four tips for living as a writer, and I won't sugar coat it.
1. Think about yourself.
I was inspired to live a “year of Me.” That allowed me to say, "I want to do these hours over those," and "I want to do this project over that one," at work. I just went and said it, and no one died, no one criticized, and no one said, "nope." You'll be surprised how well others respond when you unapologetically speak up for yourself.
2. Deal with it
On the other hand, you still have to work hard. And you just have to work hard. I took a very flexible hourly, but permanent, writing job so that I can spend my time as I pleased. For a while it worked Okay. I declared my hours to be 10-4, Monday through Thursday. It was a fantasy I always had that I made a reality by doing what I described above.
However, I started running out of money! While I really like my job, I had to face the fact that I either needed to take on my hours, get other freelance gigs, or start looking for a full-time salaried job that is more on par with my skill level. So far, I've been lucky. I found side gigs thanks to good ol’ ModCloth peeps and thanks to tirelessly sending resume/cover letter/writing sample after resume/cover letter/writing sample.
I got many headaches. I cried many tears. But, I'm telling you, you just gotta deal with it.
3. You suck at some things
Admit it. Do it. Done? Now, do you feel a weight lifted? I hope so.
It's never a bad thing to be honest about your skills, especially if an expectation is set by a hiring manager. For example, if you're hired on to write headlines because you're an ace at them, then get asked to craft press releases but have no idea how to write a press release, say so. Maybe you'll be asked to give it a shot and all will end well. Or, maybe you know you're just not at all interested in PR writing and know you won't be able to deliver as well as, say a colleague of yours - Say so! (Bonus tip - supporting your peers makes you look good.)
When you're honest and forthcoming, you'll impress more than if you build yourself up or take on too much. Be an expert in one thing, not a dilettante, and make that all work for you.
4. Count your lucky stars
I mention above that I've been lucky in nailing what I have. But, it's not just random dumb luck. Years ago I worked hard to get a job at ModCloth. I made many friends there who I regularly recommend for work and in turn they've come to trust me as a source for great work.
So, if you're sitting around wondering why you're not getting any work or getting anyone to read your brilliant pieces, try to make a few friends. Everyone has got to know someone, and chances are you know personally or know of a writer or someone in the field you want to break into who you can make a connection with. Then, you'll be saying years down the line, "I was so lucky to know this person who helped me succeed."
Here's another way of looking at luck. In this piece, Creating Your Own Luck, the author points out that sagaciousness is will open the door to opportunities of luck.
In conclusion? Don't be like me. Don't spend time whining, crying, and watching old Homestar Runner while nursing your headache and not doing much else. If you avoid those things and remember the above, you'll do way better than me! Good luck. :)
