Keep on Writing: Staying Positive in Difficult Times

Setting a fair rate is something writers struggle with, especially during times when work is scarce.  With several content mills reducing the amount work available, and letting go some of their freelance writer, competition between writers has gotten fierce.  Writers who once had very firm pay rate demands have started accepting lower paying work in order to pay their bills and keep their families fed.  Some of these writers are criticized by peers for accepting low paying work, and others have to deal with the criticism of family and friends for not having a “real” job.  When you are forced to deal with negativity, focusing on the benefits of being a professional writer can help you stay positive and encourage you to keep writing.

The Ability to Help Family

Working from home as a writer gives you more control over your schedule.  It is true that the average writer cannot afford to work one hour a day in their pajamas, but it is also true that most writers can arrange their daily projects around the needs of their family.  Being a writer means you can play an active role in your child’s education by becoming a room parent or joining parent organizations at the school.  Also, you can help other family members by helping with errands, taking older family members to doctor appointments, and more. 

A Chance to Save Money

Writing from home gives you a unique chance to save money.  The cost of paying for gas and food for lunch each week is often more than most commuters realize.  Plus, buying appropriate work clothes and pay to go out for lunch with co-workers are also expenses that can affect a family living on a tight budget.  As long as you work from home, you are helping your family save money that can be used to pay bills or increase the families nest egg.

Whenever you begin to grow discouraged because of the negativity of your peers and family, remember the benefits of working from home as a writer.  Staying encouraged will increase your productivity and your chances of continued professional success.