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I'm probably not too far off when I speculate that freelance writing is something most serious writers have at least considered doing at one time or another. Maybe it's their big dream as far as what they want to do with their life and their talent with words. Maybe it's just something they want to do on the side until they manage to land that big book deal they've been fantasizing about since they first picked up a pen and a blank sheet of notebook paper. Either way, it's something that flits through the mind of the average writer now and then.

However, very few writers are prepared for the actual reality of freelancing. It definitely turns out to be a lot harder than you thought it was going to be. You find out that even if you're good, there are people that are a lot better than you. Most of all, you find out that clients aren't going to flatter you and pat you on the head when it comes to everything you write the way your friends always have. The world of freelance writing is extremely competitive and challenging - definitely the type of world in which a few survival strategies can be a big help. However, it's not an impossible world to conquer and build a niche for yourself in. I'm a full-time freelance writer, and if I can do it? Believe me when I say that so can you. You just need to know how.

DEVELOP A THICK SKIN

This is probably the most important piece of advice I can give any writer who's even thinking about freelancing. If you are the type of person that cannot tolerate criticism or rejection, I suggest you either become that type of person or find something else to do with your time, because you will experience both over and over again - especially at first. The best thing you can do is choose to turn it into a learning experience. Listen graciously to criticism offered by your clients and use it to make yourself a better writer. Realize that rejection isn't personal. It's just part of the experience of freelancing, and it will continue to be even after you learn the ropes, so don't let it discourage you.

WORK ON YOUR DISCIPLINE

The idea of writing for a living in the solace and comfort of your own home without having to worry about a boss looking over your shoulder all the time sounds great doesn't it? Well, it is! I can personally attest to that. I get to work, rest, eat, and organize my time however and whenever I like, and it's awesome. However, the downside of that is that I'm the only person responsible for making sure I work hard enough, and

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