What is it like to really write full-time?

I can assure you that it is different than writing for recreation. I would say that at least 95% of what you write will be for a client of some sort that will generate cash. Very few freelancing writers have the opportunity to write interesting books or short stories, which might be considered as the work of choice. Instead, most writers are producing web content, brochure verbiage, articles and newsletters for companies or perhaps technical writing which involves documentation of a software program etc.

Not quite as romantic, is it? However, some writers do enjoy sales copywriting. It's a chance to utilize their writing skills and earn a paycheck. There will be times when writing these types of communications become tedious. Especially if it is highly technical. I remember writing some software documentation and new hire announcements for a company that wanted "corporate" heavy verbiage. That takes some skill, creativity and analytical thinking. It can also exhaust you at the end of the day. There have been times where I have felt like my eyeballs were on my cheeks by the time I closed shop for the day!

It's still better than working 40 hours a week, though right?

Here's the thing: I would venture to say that the average freelance writer works closer to 50 - 60 hours a week, minimum. Why? because the writer is always on the hunt for the next writing job. That takes a chunk of time each day devoted to networking, cold calling/emailing and applying to these type jobs. Full-time writers rarely work less than 40 hours a week if they are trying to make a decent living. In my opinion, yes, I have worked in Corporate America and I have been working as a freelance writer. Freelance writing with the additional hours, constantly looking for the next gig and so on wins hands down for me. It may not for the next writer.

What is a typical day like?

The typical day for me starts at 6am where I check my emails, follow up on any inquiries, read online newsletters for job leads, check out writer sites for job listings etc. Then I work on client assignments, follow up with them once complete and then invoice for my work. I also update my accounting spreadsheets to reflect all expenses and payments received etc. Then I will work on my monthly newsletter, write articles to increase my exposure, do some cold emailing to review any need for writing services I provide, investigate any networking meetings, etc. I also meet with clients periodically if there is a project coming up they would like to discuss in person. I check my email periodically all times of the day. I normally stop for the day between 4 - 6pm once I backup my files. I log on once more before I go to bed around 8pm and followup on straggler emails. My day lasts anywhere from 12 to 14 hours on my laptop.

This life may not be ideal for everyone, but it's one that I can't imagine living without. If you really love to write, working that many hours seem to fly by. It also affords the writer alot of flexibility which is invaluable at times.

It's a busy work life, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

Taryn Simpson
http://www.TarynSimpson.com