by Ngozi Obanye-Stephen

Created on: February 06, 2009

For many, freelance writing is a labour of love that runs alongside existing jobs with minimal distraction. However, there may come a time when the money you earn from your writing projects is enough to support you and your family. Or you may be tired of the rat race, the slow commuting, and the long drive through traffic, or fed up with conforming to an organization's wants and needs. When this happens, you may feel an element of doubt, and there's likely to be a hundred and one questions running through your mind. Before making the decision to start working as a fulltime freelance writer, these are the factors you should consider.

Setting Goals

Assess your current skill level and decide whether any areas of your writing need to be worked on. For example, if you want to write press releases but have never written one before, a short course may be helpful.

Consider preparing a business plan. This is not necessarily for the purpose of acquiring funding for your business, but for your personal use. Research how to reach your writing and income goals. Planning includes assessing your current financial situation and developing a cash flow system that incorporates all your financial needs.

Discipline

Waking up at 7am in order travel to a day job is a necessary discipline because of financial commitments. This skill also applies to your work at home job. Freelance writing involves discipline. Without it, reaching your goals can seem almost impossible. Set achievable targets: learn to write a specific number of words per day, or a set a target number of articles to write each week. Of course, there will be distractions. Distractions are inevitable when working from home, what with domestic issues and ringing telephones. At home it is very easy to immerse yourself in life's daily happenings without getting any writing done. The key is not to allow being at home impede upon your work mentality. It's far easier to deal with distractions that arise than to focus on the task of writing.

Diversify

Some people may decide to use a particular outlet or a type of publication to sell their writing. However, do not limit yourself by assuming that certain areas of writing are not for you until you have tried them. There are many areas of writing that welcome new ideas and fresh talent. By stepping out of your comfort zone, you'll be expanding your creativity. For example, consider writing for live theatre, comedy, greeting cards, brochures, local companies, or charities.

The market for freelance writing is vast, leaving you with great potential for success. Taking the step from a day job to a new work at home career is not as daunting as you might think. It not only depends on your financial status, but also on how determined you are to achieve the success you so desire.

Learn more about this author, Ngozi Obanye-Stephen.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.