I have recently made a drastic career change. I have gone from administrative assistant to full time, stay-at-home mom and free lance internet writer! In order to earn some extra money and to make ends meet, I am following my dream of being a writer. It's not easy and it doesn't pay well, but hey, it is my passion and I thoroughly enjoy it.
I write articles for several online companies such as: Constant Content, Associated Content, Ehow and Helium. In order to earn substantial income, an internet free lance writer must produce both quantity and quality when it comes to content. And the hardest part about cranking out massive quantities of articles is that you not only have to be a writer, but you also have to be creative to come up with unique article ideas.
My friends will sometimes ask me what I can possibly be writing about and my response to them is: anything and everything! Every little thing becomes fodder for my new career. Every little thing becomes an article idea. For example, every time I eat at a new restaurant, I write a review. The same goes for frequenting a new store, salon or boutique.
If I go on a vacation or even a just a long weekend, I can gleam dozens of article ideas from my experiences. I review the destination, the hotel, the beaches, the restaurants and shops and the activities. In fact, I research and explore the surrounding areas as well and gather up brochures and menus to get my creative juices flowing. Now, this truly is a fun way to obtain article ideas!
I create articles about my hobbies as well, like scrapbooking, baseball and, of course, writing. I also develop stories about must-have products, home dcor, gardening, baby gear, birthday party themes and invitation ideas.
For each and every holiday season there are dozens of article ideas just waiting to be written. I include decorating tips, great gift options, recipes, menus, traditions and local events. I write about Christmas walks, craft shows, festivals, parades, egg hunts and more.
The media is just jam packed with endless article ideas. I review television shows, books and movies. I also research and report on major happenings in and around Hollywood. And anytime I attend a major concert or even see a local band, I write a review.
I page through parent publications and write articles about the advertised play lands, museums, zoos and more. I hesitate to write about places that I haven't actually visited, but I simply call the locations and play reporter. I ask a list of pertinent questions that most people are more than happy to answer.
The point is to just open your eyes and your mind and take note of your surroundings. Article ideas are everywhere! Always keep a journal nearby and make a never ending list of your best article ideas. And if you become stumped, take a break, take a walk, read a book or watch the news and yet another story is bound to be born!