by Patrick Sills

Created on: May 12, 2008   Last Updated: November 27, 2011

Long before I discovered that there were sites on the Internet such as Helium, I wrote online for no compensation other than the satisfaction that others could read my work. The passion, the desire to express one's thoughts whether on physical paper or on websites goes far beyond the boundaries of financial reward. This is not to say that there is no satisfaction in receiving payment for your efforts, but I look at this as an added bonus. Imagine finding an extra gift in that Christmas package under the tree, and you'll get the idea.

Writing is a fiercely competitive field, and the fact of the matter is that very few of us who have been graced with talent and/or motivation will ever be able to support ourselves with our passion. For every successful novelist or freelance writer out there whose sole income is derived from their craft, I would venture to guess that there are 10,000-20,000 talented writers who have day jobs. Even the authors of many paperback novels you see in grocery stores do not sustain themselves on these published works alone.

The Internet has opened a huge door for those of us who would have otherwise been unheard of as recently as 20 years ago. We may never make a dime, but the Web enables us to utilize our talents and our work is potentially viewed by thousands of people.

There are thousands of websites in the realm of cyberspace, and each of them pertain to a specific area of interest that will lure certain groups of people. For example, I am an avid Volkswagen enthusiast and belong to discussion boards that specialize in these cars. Consequently, I express my opinions as well as contribute to them. Somebody else may be passionate about a completely different topic, such as the latest news about the Rolling Stones and their tour schedule. Other writers may be avid golfers who enjoy contributing tips on how to improve your stroke. The possibilities are endless.

As time marches on, I think writers will see more financial opportunities. A day could arrive when physical books, magazines, and newspapers will become quaint novelties possessed by few. In the meantime, we are still honing our craft.

At the very least, each time your name is seen on the Internet; through Google, Yahoo, or a slew of other search engines, this increases awareness of who you are. Granted, there are hundreds of thousands of others out there in the same setting, but the fact remains that your audience slowly grows, and you will undoubtedly acquire fans of your writing somewhere. This alone should render a sense of accomplishment.

As they say in show business, it's not what you know; but rather WHO you know. This applies to writing, too. Somebody such as an editor or agent may be out there waiting in the wings to stumble upon your material. Having a portfolio of material at your disposal will certainly help should such an event; albeit atypical, arrive. Hey, it can't hurt!

That's my motivation. What's yours?

Learn more about this author, Patrick Sills.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.